Mexican Mac Cheese Hotdogs: A Delicious & Spicy Recipe

Mexican Mac Cheese Hotdogs: Prepare to ditch your preconceived notions about hotdogs because we’re about to embark on a flavor fiesta! Imagine this: a juicy, perfectly grilled hotdog nestled in a toasted bun, smothered in creamy, cheesy macaroni infused with the vibrant spices of Mexico. Sounds incredible, right?

While the exact origins of topping hotdogs with mac and cheese are somewhat shrouded in mystery, the combination speaks to a universal love of comfort food and culinary experimentation. Mac and cheese, a dish with roots stretching back to medieval Europe, has become a beloved staple in American cuisine. Combining it with the all-American hotdog and a zesty Mexican twist is a stroke of pure genius!

People adore this dish for its sheer deliciousness and playful nature. The creamy, cheesy mac provides a comforting base, while the hotdog adds a satisfying meaty bite. But the real magic lies in the Mexican-inspired flavors – think chili powder, cumin, maybe even a touch of jalapeño for a kick. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Plus, these Mexican Mac Cheese Hotdogs are incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue. Get ready to experience a hotdog like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Hot Dogs:
• 10 all-beef hot dogs
• 10 hot dog buns
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
• For the Mexican Mac and Cheese:
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapenos, chopped (optional)
• Toppings (Optional):
• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Guacamole or diced avocado
• Pico de gallo
• Hot sauce
• Crumbled cotija cheese

Preparing the Mexican Mac and Cheese:

1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni well and set aside. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce.
2. Make the Roux: In the same pot (or a large saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms. This is called a roux, and it’s the base for our creamy cheese sauce. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Create the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This will prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken slightly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Seasoning: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, the cheese will also add saltiness, so don’t overdo it at this stage.
5. Incorporate the Evaporated Milk: Pour in the evaporated milk and stir to combine. This adds extra creaminess and richness to the mac and cheese.
6. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, one handful at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Make sure the cheese is fully melted before adding more to prevent clumping.
7. Add the Mexican Flavors: Stir in the diced green chilies (with their liquid) and the chopped cilantro. If you like a little extra heat, add the chopped pickled jalapenos. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
8. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat evenly. Make sure all the macaroni is well coated in the delicious cheese sauce.
9. Keep Warm: Cover the pot and keep the mac and cheese warm over low heat while you prepare the hot dogs. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If it starts to thicken too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Preparing the Hot Dogs:

1. Prepare the Onions and Jalapenos: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced jalapeno and cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Cook the Hot Dogs: There are several ways to cook hot dogs:
   • Grilling: Grill the hot dogs over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and have grill marks.
   • Boiling: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the hot dogs and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are heated through.
   • Pan-Frying: Cook the hot dogs in the same skillet as the onions and jalapenos for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly browned.

   I prefer pan-frying them in the same skillet as the onions and jalapenos because it infuses them with extra flavor.

3. Warm the Buns: While the hot dogs are cooking, you can warm the hot dog buns. You can do this by:
   • Toasting: Toast the buns in a toaster or under the broiler for a minute or two, until lightly toasted.
   • Steaming: Steam the buns in a steamer basket or by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for a few seconds.
   • Pan-Frying: Lightly butter the inside of the buns and toast them in the same skillet as the onions and jalapenos for a minute or two, until golden brown.

   Warming the buns makes them softer and more enjoyable to eat.

Assembling the Mexican Mac and Cheese Hot Dogs:

1. Place Hot Dogs in Buns: Place each cooked hot dog in a warm hot dog bun.
2. Top with Mac and Cheese: Generously spoon the Mexican mac and cheese over each hot dog. Don’t be shy! The more mac and cheese, the better.
3. Add Toppings (Optional): Top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream or Mexican crema, guacamole or diced avocado, pico de gallo, hot sauce, and crumbled cotija cheese. A sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro adds a fresh touch.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the Mexican mac and cheese hot dogs immediately while the mac and cheese is still warm and gooey. These are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeno and cayenne pepper to your desired spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the mac and cheese. Pepper jack, Oaxaca, or even a little bit of queso fresco would be delicious additions.
• Meat Variations: While this recipe calls for all-beef hot dogs, you can use any type of hot dog you prefer, such as chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian hot dogs.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian, use vegetarian hot dogs and ensure that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly (some cheeses contain animal rennet).
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling the hot dogs.
• Add Protein: For an even heartier meal, consider adding some cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans to the mac and cheese.
• Bacon: Everything is better with bacon! Add some cooked and crumbled bacon to the mac and cheese or as a topping for the hot dogs.
• Corn: Stir in some cooked corn kernels to the mac and cheese for added sweetness and texture.
• Roast the Jalapenos: For a deeper, smokier flavor, roast the jalapenos before mincing them. Simply place them under the broiler for a few minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is blackened. Then, place them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap for 10 minutes to steam. Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and mince.

Enjoy your delicious and over-the-top Mexican Mac and Cheese Hot Dogs! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Mexican Mac Cheese Hotdogs are truly a flavor explosion you won’t soon forget. From the creamy, cheesy base with that delightful kick of spice to the perfectly grilled hotdog nestled inside, every bite is a celebration. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try because it elevates the humble hotdog to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual weeknight dinner, or just craving something utterly satisfying.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your toppings and serving suggestions. For a truly authentic Mexican experience, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema, a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese, and a generous handful of fresh cilantro. Pickled jalapeños would also add a fantastic burst of heat and tang. If you’re feeling adventurous, try topping your Mexican Mac Cheese Hotdogs with some crispy fried onions or even a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.

For serving, these hotdogs are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a side of elote (Mexican street corn), a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad, or some crispy tortilla chips with guacamole. If you’re serving a larger crowd, consider setting up a hotdog bar with all the toppings and variations so everyone can customize their own perfect creation.

And speaking of variations, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese in your mac and cheese. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheddar and Oaxaca cheese would all work wonderfully. You could also add some shredded chicken or ground beef to the mac and cheese for an even heartier meal. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based hotdogs and adding some black beans and corn to the mac and cheese. The possibilities are truly endless!

I poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I’m confident that these Mexican Mac Cheese Hotdogs will become a new favorite in your household. They are the perfect blend of comfort food and exciting flavors, making them a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

This Mexican Mac Cheese Hotdog recipe is a guaranteed winner!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate hotdog experience. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please, try this recipe and share your experience with me in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what toppings you loved, and how much your family and friends enjoyed them. Your feedback is invaluable, and I’m always eager to learn from your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!