Description
Cordon Bleu Hot Dogs combine crispy breading, smoky ham, and melty cheese wrapped around savory hot dogs, fried or baked to golden perfection. This quick and easy recipe makes a crowd-pleasing finger food perfect for dinners, parties, and snacks, offering a fun twist on classic comfort food with customizable variations for different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Hot Dogs – 6 pieces (beef, pork, or chicken)
- Ham Slices – 6 thin slices (deli ham)
- Cheese – 6 slices (Swiss or mozzarella)
Breading Station
- Flour – 1 cup
- Eggs – 2 large, beaten
- Bread Crumbs – 1.5 cups (panko or regular)
For Frying
- Oil for Frying – 2 cups (vegetable or canola oil)
Optional Variations & Seasonings
- Cayenne or Paprika – 1 tsp (optional, for spicy twist)
- Alternative Cheese Options – Cheddar or pepper jack (optional)
- Gluten-Free Alternatives – Gluten-free flour and bread crumbs as needed
- Vegetarian Option – Veggie dogs and smoked tofu or tempeh slices instead of ham
Instructions
- Prepare the Hot Dogs: Place a slice of ham flat on your work surface. Lay a hot dog lengthwise on top, then place a slice of cheese over the hot dog. Roll the ham and cheese tightly around the hot dog, forming a neat bundle that seals in the flavors.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs. This setup will help the coating stick evenly and become crispy when cooked.
- Bread the Rolled Hot Dogs: Lightly coat each ham-wrapped hot dog in flour, tapping off any excess. Dip it thoroughly in the beaten eggs, ensuring all sides are covered. Finally, roll it in the bread crumbs, pressing gently for an even and firm coating.
- Chill the Hot Dogs (Optional but Recommended): Refrigerate the breaded hot dogs for 15-20 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking and prevent cheese leakage.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded hot dogs and fry for 3 to 5 minutes, turning regularly until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Alternative Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded hot dogs on a greased sheet pan and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Notes
- Chilling the rolled hot dogs before breading and cooking helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from leaking out.
- Fresh panko bread crumbs provide the best crunchy texture.
- Keep oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for optimal frying to avoid soggy or burnt coating.
- Bread the hot dogs just before frying or baking to maintain a crispy crust.
- Choose cheeses that melt well but do not ooze excessively when cooked.
- Store leftover cooked hot dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freeze uncooked breaded hot dogs on a sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen for best results.
- Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to retain crispiness; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hot dog
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Cordon Bleu, Hot Dogs, Fried Hot Dogs, Breaded Hot Dogs, Party Food, Appetizer, Kids Friendly, Comfort Food, Quick Dinner, Cheese, Ham
