1tablespooncrushed red pepper flakesadjust to taste
Caramelized Onions
2large yellow onionsthinly sliced
2tablespoonsbutter
1/2teaspoonkosher salt
1teaspoonbrown sugaroptional
Garnish
fresh chopped chives
shredded cheeseoptional: sharp cheddar, pepper jack, smoked gouda, or American
Instructions
Wrap each hot dog with a slice of bacon, overlapping slightly toward the far end. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Preheat the pellet grill to 275°F. Smoke the bacon-wrapped hot dogs 45 to 60 minutes, rotating every 15 to 20 minutes, then finish 2 to 3 minutes over direct heat to crisp.
While the hot dogs cook, melt butter over medium-low heat, add the onions and salt, and cook 30 to 40 minutes until deep golden and jammy. Add brown sugar in the last few minutes if using.
Make the Loaded Baconnaise Sauce: combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, apple cider vinegar, BBQ rub, and red pepper flakes, then fold in the finely chopped crispy bacon. Chill at least 30 minutes.
Toast the brioche buns on the grill for 30 to 60 seconds.
Place each bacon-wrapped hot dog in a bun and top with Loaded Baconnaise Sauce, caramelized onions, and fresh chopped chives. Serve immediately.
Notes
Grill Master Tip: Bacon rewards patience, so render it low and slow at 275°F first, then finish over direct heat only after the fat has mostly rendered. Chop the sauce bacon small so every bite has some, make the Loaded Baconnaise Sauce ahead so it chills at least 30 minutes, and toast the buns to keep them from going soggy. Store the dogs, onions, and sauce separately in airtight containers up to 3 days.