Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs: 7 Steps to Ultimate Indulgence

Name: Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean/fat); 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (from about 6-8 slices of bacon), crumbled; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 8 small cubes of cheddar, American, or Monterey Jack cheese (about 1/2 oz each); 8 wooden skewers or corn dog sticks; 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying; 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg

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Remember those glorious days of summer fairs? The smell of popcorn, the thrill of rides, and, of course, the incredibly inventive (and sometimes outrageous) food concoctions? I vividly recall one sweltering afternoon, clutching a classic corn dog, a burst of childhood nostalgia hitting me. Simultaneously, a craving for a juicy cheeseburger and the irresistible crunch of bacon took hold. It was in that moment of culinary contemplation, amidst the joyful chaos of the fairground, that a wild idea sparked: why not combine all these glorious flavors into one epic bite? The thought of a Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs masterpiece seemed almost too good to be true. It was a challenge, a culinary quest, and honestly, a delicious obsession waiting to happen. What started as a whimsical daydream has evolved into a full-blown recipe that will transform your kitchen into a fairground of flavor. Get ready to experience comfort food redefined, because these aren't just corn dogs; they're a celebration!

Table of Contents

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

An Explosion of Flavor: Imagine the savory punch of a cheeseburger, the smoky allure of bacon, and the tangy kick of ranch, all encased in a sweet, crispy corn dog batter. These Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs are a flavor symphony you won't soon forget.
Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it's a game day party, a backyard BBQ, or just a fun family dinner, these unique corn dogs are guaranteed to be the star of the show. Prepare for rave reviews and empty platters!
Fun & Engaging to Make: While they might sound complex, the process is incredibly enjoyable. It’s a fantastic project for a weekend, offering a creative twist on familiar favorites.
Customizable Delight: Easily adjust the type of cheese, add a touch of spice, or experiment with different toppings. These Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs are versatile!

Key Ingredient Notes

Crafting the perfect Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs requires attention to a few key players that elevate this dish from good to unforgettable.

The Beef & Bacon Blend

For the patty, I highly recommend using a good quality ground beef with about an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. This ensures your mini burgers stay juicy and flavorful even after being deep-fried. When it comes to the bacon, pre-cooked bacon bits are a massive time-saver, but if you have the time, frying up your own crispy bacon and crumbling it will add an even more intense smoky depth. Make sure the bacon is very crispy, as it will hold its texture better within the corn dog.

The Ranch-Infused Batter

The corn dog batter is where the magic truly happens. Using yellow cornmeal gives it that classic texture and flavor, but the secret ingredient here is the dry ranch seasoning mix. Don't skimp on it! It infuses the entire batter with a creamy, zesty, herbaceous flavor that complements the beef and cheese beautifully. Ensure your flour is all-purpose for the right consistency, and the milk adds moisture and helps create that golden-brown crust. For the best Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs, the batter should be thick enough to cling to the patties without being gloopy. A good tip is to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tough batter.

Cheese Selection

While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for a cheeseburger, feel free to experiment! American cheese melts beautifully and offers that quintessential burger cheese pull. Monterey Jack or even a Pepper Jack could add a slight kick if you like a little heat. The key is to cut the cheese into small enough pieces that they melt readily within the mini burger patty when fried, creating that gooey center that makes Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs so irresistible.

Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs Preparation — Unleash Your Inner Foodie: Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs! 4

Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips

Ready to create your own Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs? Follow these steps for culinary success!

Step 1: Prepare the Mini Burger Patties. In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground beef, crumbled bacon bits, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Form the mixture into 16 small, thin patties, roughly 1.5 inches in diameter. You want them small enough to be easily coated and fried. Once formed, place a small cube of your chosen cheese in the center of 8 of the patties. Top each with another patty and seal the edges tightly, forming 8 cheese-stuffed mini burger patties. Insert a wooden skewer or corn dog stick into each patty, pushing it about halfway through.

Step 2: Chill the Patties. This is a crucial step for ensuring your Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs hold together. Place the skewered patties on a plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart in the hot oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Deep Frying Oil. Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to reach a depth of 3-4 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). A thermometer is essential here for consistent results. If the oil is too cool, your corn dogs will be greasy; if too hot, they'll burn before cooking through.

Step 4: Prepare the Ranch Corn Dog Batter. In a large bowl, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, dry ranch seasoning mix, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and large egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. A few lumps are okay; do not overmix. The batter should be thick enough to coat the patties evenly. Transfer the batter to a tall glass or container – this makes dipping much easier.

Step 5: Coat the Patties. One by one, remove a chilled mini burger patty on its stick from the fridge. Dip each patty into the tall glass of ranch corn dog batter, rotating to ensure it's completely and evenly coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before carefully transferring it to the hot oil. For easy clean-up and storage of any extra batter, consider using Basics Glass Food Storage containers.

Step 6: Deep-Fry to Golden Perfection. Carefully lower the coated Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs into the hot oil, frying 2-3 at a time to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the beef should reach 160°F (71°C). Once golden, use tongs to remove them from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy! Allow the Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs to cool for a few minutes before serving. They will be piping hot! Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like extra ranch dressing, ketchup, mustard, or even a spicy aioli. These are best enjoyed fresh!

Variations & Serving Suggestions

These Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs are already a showstopper, but why not explore some delicious variations and serving ideas?

Creative Twists for Your Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your beef mixture, or even to the corn dog batter, for a fiery twist. A slice of jalapeño inside the cheese center would also be fantastic.
Onion Ring Crunch: Before coating, press some finely crushed fried onion rings onto the exterior of the beef patties for an extra layer of savory crunch within your Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs.
Mushroom & Swiss: Swap out the cheddar for Swiss cheese and add sautéed, finely chopped mushrooms to your beef mixture for a gourmet version.
Breakfast for Dinner: Imagine adding a tiny bit of scrambled egg to the beef and using breakfast sausage instead of bacon. Dip in maple syrup for a sweet and savory sensation!
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless marvel, try using a firm veggie burger patty and your favorite vegetarian bacon bits, ensuring they are small enough to be impaled by the stick and hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions

These Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs are substantial, but a few simple sides can complete the meal:

Classic Pairings: Serve with a side of crispy french fries or sweet potato fries for that ultimate diner experience.
Fresh & Light: Balance the richness with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. A simple coleslaw also makes a refreshing counterpoint.
Dipping Sauce Extravaganza: Offer a variety of dipping sauces! Beyond the obvious ketchup and mustard, consider a creamy garlic aioli, a smoky BBQ sauce, or even a sriracha-mayo for those who love a little heat. More ranch dressing is always a good idea too!
Party Platter Perfect: Arrange them on a large platter with colorful garnishes like chopped chives or finely diced tomatoes for an impressive party appetizer. They pair wonderfully with other fun finger foods, like maybe even some Cheesy Taco Nacho Ring for a truly epic spread. Or for a sweet finish, consider making some Dreamy Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples.

Nutrition Information

Here's a breakdown of the estimated nutrition for one Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs. Please note these are estimates and can vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	520 kcal
Carbohydrate Content	35g
Cholesterol Content	90mg
Fat Content	35g
Fiber Content	2g
Protein Content	20g
Saturated Fat Content	15g
Serving Size	1 corn dog
Sodium Content	850mg
Sugar Content	5g
Trans Fat Content	0.5g
Unsaturated Fat Content	15g

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! The ultimate Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs recipe that brings all the fun and flavor of the fair right into your home. It's a recipe born from a whimsical dream, designed to bring smiles and satisfy the most adventurous of appetites. Don't be shy about trying this fantastic creation; it’s truly a game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the fryer, and get ready to impress everyone with these unbelievably delicious and incredibly fun Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs!

FAQs

Can I bake Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs instead of frying?

While deep-frying provides the classic crispy texture, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 400u00b0F (200u00b0C). Place the coated corn dogs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature of the beef reaches 160u00b0F (71u00b0C). The texture will be different, but still delicious.

What kind of cheese is best for these Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs?

Cheddar and American cheese are classic choices because they melt beautifully and offer that familiar cheeseburger flavor. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can also be used if you prefer a milder or slightly spicier kick, respectively. Ensure the cheese is cut into small cubes to melt properly within the mini patty.

Can I prepare the corn dog batter ahead of time?

It's best to mix the corn dog batter just before you're ready to fry. The baking powder will start to activate once wet, and the batter can lose some of its leavening power if left to sit for too long. However, you can prepare the beef patties with the cheese and bacon and chill them in advance (up to 24 hours).

How do I ensure the Deep-Fried Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs don't fall off the stick?

The key is to chill the beef patties thoroughly after skewering them. This firms up the meat, making it less likely to fall apart in the hot oil. Also, ensure the skewer is inserted firmly and about halfway through the patty. When dipping, be gentle, and allow excess batter to drip off before carefully placing them in the oil.