1 tablespoon freshly minced jalapeno or to taste
3 tablespoons cooked bacon crumbled (or to taste)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded and divided
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 hot dogs cooked
8 hot dog buns
cilantro for garnish optional
In a skillet over mid-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter and place hot dogs in the skillet. Allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes or until they are nicely browned. Roll the hot dogs over to brown the other side - another 2-3 minutes or until they are browned to your liking. While the hot dogs are cooking, combine the 8 ounce package of cream cheese, 1 tablespoon jalapeno, 3 tablespoons crumbled bacon, and 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese in a medium bowl. Mix the ingredients together well. Add a pinch of salt and give it a taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed, adding pepper if needed. Because jalapenos can vary widely in heat level, be sure to add more if needed. Spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture on each hot dog bun. Place a cooked hot dog in each bun and sprinkle on the remaining cheddar cheese, dividing it equally among all hot dogs. Place the hot dogs on a foil lined baking sheet and place them in the oven under the broiler. Remember to leave the oven door ajar when broiling and watch them closely. It will only take 30 seconds to a minute for the cheese to melt. When the cheese is melted to your liking, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish the hot dogs with freshly chopped cilantro, serve, and enjoy!