Everyone loves pigs in a blanket. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or a holiday party, these savory little snacks always disappear quickly from the table. What’s not to love about mini sausages wrapped in flaky dough? This pigs in a blanket recipe is simple, easy to customize, and will make your next event unforgettable.
If you’re looking for other crowd-pleasing appetizers, don’t forget to check out these BBQ chicken thigh recipes for another party favorite.
What Are Pigs in a Blanket?
While pigs in a blanket might seem like a modern party staple, the dish has roots in different cultures around the world. In the U.S., we know it as mini sausages wrapped in crescent roll dough, but variations exist globally. From the British version (which often involves wrapping sausages in bacon) to Central European recipes using cabbage, pigs in a blanket have certainly come a long way.
This versatile snack is perfect for any occasion and easy to make, as this pigs in a blanket recipe demonstrates. You can also experiment with ingredients for different occasions.
The Essential Ingredients You Need
To get started with the pigs in a blanket recipe, here’s what you’ll need:
- Mini Sausages: 1 package (about 24 sausages), Little Smokies are classic.
- Crescent Roll Dough: 1 can (8 oz), or substitute with puff pastry for a flakier result.
- Egg Wash: 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional but recommended for a golden finish).
- Optional Fillings: Cheese slices, bacon strips, or herbs to tuck inside the dough for extra flavor.
These ingredients are flexible, allowing you to adjust the flavor based on personal preferences or occasion. For instance, pairing this dish with a Southern-style coleslaw could add a refreshing contrast.
How to Wrap the Dough Perfectly
The key to getting that professional look with your homemade pigs in a blanket is mastering the dough. Here are some tips:
- Start Cold: Whether using crescent dough or puff pastry, cold dough is easier to handle and maintains its shape better in the oven.
- Cut Evenly: For consistent results, make sure to cut your dough into even triangles or rectangles, depending on the size of your sausages.
- Don’t Wrap Too Tightly: Roll the dough around the sausage, but leave a little room for the dough to expand while baking.
How to Make Different Variations
This classic pigs in a blanket recipe can be tailored in numerous ways. Here are some creative variations:
- Cheese-Stuffed: Add a slice of cheddar or mozzarella inside the dough for a cheesy surprise.
- Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each sausage with a strip of bacon before rolling it in the dough for a smokier taste.
- Herb Toppings: Add flavor by brushing the tops with garlic butter or sprinkling fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before baking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Pigs in a Blanket
Once you’ve prepared your dough and sausage, follow these steps to create the perfect pigs in a blanket:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Assemble the Snacks
Roll out your crescent roll dough or puff pastry. Cut into uniform pieces, place a mini sausage on each, and roll from the wide end to the narrow end.
Step 3: Brush with Egg Wash
Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden finish. You can also sprinkle toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds for an extra crunch.
Step 4: Bake
Place your snacks on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Let the pigs in a blanket cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Best Dips and Sides to Serve
Pigs in a blanket are delicious on their own, but serving them with complementary dips and sides will make your dish a standout:
- Mustard: Classic Dijon or honey mustard.
- Cheese Sauce: A warm, creamy cheese sauce makes a great addition.
- Spicy Ketchup: Adding sriracha or hot sauce to ketchup can create a spicier kick.
For an impressive spread, consider pairing your pigs in a blanket with a veggie platter or a fresh salad. You can even check out these smoked BBQ chicken thighs for a fantastic party combination.
Prepping in Advance
If you’re hosting an event, prepping your pigs in a blanket ahead of time can save you stress. Here’s how:
- Freezing: Roll your pigs in a blanket and freeze them uncooked. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven without thawing and add a few extra minutes of baking time.
- Reheating: Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to keep them crispy.
FAQs About Pigs in a Blanket
- Can I make pigs in a blanket gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free crescent dough or puff pastry to make a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- What’s the best way to keep them crispy?
- Reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave helps maintain their crispiness.
- Can I add cheese to this pigs in a blanket recipe?
- Absolutely! Cheese-stuffed pigs in a blanket are a popular variation.
- What kind of sausages should I use?
- Little Smokies are perfect, but you can also cut up hot dogs or use cocktail sausages.
- How can I prevent the dough from getting soggy?
- Make sure to bake on a lined sheet and avoid overfilling with cheese or toppings that release too much moisture.
- Can I use full-sized hot dogs?
- Yes, just cut the hot dogs into smaller sections or wrap them whole for larger servings.
- How long can I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze pigs in a blanket before baking?
- Yes, freeze them before baking for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen with a slightly longer baking time.