Dad’s Bacon-Wrapped, Cheese-Stuffed Hot Dogs

Serves 6 (…maybe)

If you are going to eat hot dogs, this is the way to have them, according to my father-in-law. You have been warned: you will not be able to have just one. These can either be grilled or baked.

6 all-beef hot dogs
12 pieces sharp cheddar cheese, cut into thin strips
12 slices bacon
Toothpicks
6 toasted hot dog buns

1. With a small knife, cut a lengthwise slit about 3/4 of the way through each hot dog—but do not cut all the way through to the ends. Insert two pieces of cheese into the slits, pressing the cheese in tightly. Starting at one end of the hot dog, wrap 2 strips of bacon around each hot dog, overlapping the slices. Secure the bacon with toothpicks.
2. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Place the hot dogs over indirect heat and grill on one side for
   4 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and cooked through. Use tongs to turn the hot dogs on the other side and cook until the bacon is crispy.
3. Remove from the grill, remove the toothpicks, and serve the hot dogs on the toasted buns with relish, ketchup and mustard, if desired.

Note: If you choose to bake the hot dogs instead of grilling, place hot dogs on a broiler pan and put in 400ºF pre-heated oven; bake about 12–15 minutes or until bacon is crispy.