Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Introduction

Pigs in a Blanket are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings back a sense of childhood nostalgia with every bite. These bite-sized delights feature mini sausages wrapped in golden, buttery crescent roll dough, creating a warm, comforting snack that’s impossible to resist. The flaky exterior pairs perfectly with the savory sausage, making them a classic choice for parties, game days, and family gatherings where everyone can grab and enjoy.

I remember making Pigs in a Blanket for the first time during a family movie night. The simplicity of wrapping the sausages in the dough made it a fun activity to do together. As they baked, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of buttery pastry and sizzling sausage, making the anticipation even greater. By the time they came out of the oven, golden brown and perfectly puffed, they disappeared within minutes, dipped generously in mustard and ketchup.

What makes Pigs in a Blanket so special is their versatility. You can easily switch things up by using different types of sausages, like chicken or turkey, or even add a slice of cheese inside the dough for a melty surprise. They’re perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and even casual weeknight snacks. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces—honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch—for an extra flavor boost. Whether you’re serving them for a crowd or just craving a comforting snack, Pigs in a Blanket are guaranteed to be a hit every single time.

Perfect for:

• Game day parties
• Kids’ lunchboxes
• Holiday appetizers
• Potlucks and picnics
• Quick snacks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Pigs in a Blanket are a must-try:

• Quick and Easy: Made with just a few ingredients, these are perfect for when you need a last-minute snack.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these savory bites, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Perfectly Portable: Ideal for parties, potlucks, and lunchboxes, as they’re easy to transport and serve.
• Endless Dipping Possibilities: Serve with ketchup, mustard, honey mustard, or cheese sauce for extra flavor.
• Golden and Buttery: The crescent roll dough bakes up light, flaky, and buttery, creating the perfect contrast with the savory sausage.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 24 pieces
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Pigs in a Blanket:

• 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 24 mini beef sausages (or cocktail wieners)
• 1 large egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Dipping sauces: ketchup, mustard, honey mustard, or ranch

Ingredient Highlights

• Crescent Roll Dough: Buttery, flaky, and easy to use for wrapping the sausages.
• Mini Beef Sausages: Savory and smoky, the perfect size for this bite-sized appetizer.
• Egg Wash: Helps create a golden, shiny finish on the dough.
• Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: Adds a hint of seasoning for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make perfect Pigs in a Blanket:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles along the perforations.
3. Cut Dough Strips: Cut each triangle into three smaller triangles for the perfect size to wrap the sausages.

Wrap the Sausages:

4. Wrap the Mini Sausages: Place a mini sausage on the wide end of each dough strip and roll it up towards the point. Ensure the dough fully covers the sausage but doesn’t overlap too thickly.

Add Egg Wash:

5. Prepare Egg Wash: Whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
6. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush each wrapped sausage with the egg wash using a pastry brush.

Season and Bake:

7. Sprinkle Seasoning: Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, or smoked paprika over the top.
8. Bake: Arrange the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Cool and Serve:

9. Cool Slightly: Let the pigs in a blanket cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Serve with Dipping Sauces: Serve warm with ketchup, mustard, or ranch for dipping.

How to Serve

Pigs in a Blanket are a versatile snack with endless serving options:

• With a Dipping Sauce Bar: Offer a selection of dips like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, cheese dip, and spicy ketchup for a fun spread.
• As a Party Platter: Arrange on a serving tray with cocktail picks for easy grabbing.
• For Kids’ Lunchboxes: Pack them in lunchboxes along with sliced veggies for a fun, kid-friendly meal.
• Alongside a Salad: Serve with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dough and sausage.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Include them as a savory addition to a charcuterie board with nuts, cheeses, and fruits.

Additional Tips

• Use Puff Pastry: For an extra flaky twist, try using puff pastry instead of crescent dough.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the pigs in a blanket up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Prevent Over-Browning: If they brown too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough for a gluten-free version.
• Mini Size Matters: Stick with mini sausages for the perfect bite-sized snack, but full-sized hot dogs can be cut and used as well.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 creative twists on Pigs in a Blanket:

• Cheese-Stuffed: Add a slice of cheddar cheese inside the dough for a gooey surprise.
• Spicy Pigs in a Blanket: Add a slice of jalapeño under the sausage for a spicy kick.
• Everything Bagel Style: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
• Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket: Use breakfast sausage links and serve with maple syrup for dipping.
• Pizza Style: Add a slice of pepperoni and a dab of pizza sauce before wrapping.
• Garlic Parmesan: Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan before baking.
• Buffalo Style: Toss the baked pigs in a blanket with buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese dip.
• Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey before wrapping for a touch of sweetness.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based sausages and crescent roll dough.
• Full-Sized Hot Dogs: Use regular hot dogs and slice them in half for larger pigs in a blanket.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Assemble and freeze unbaked pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover baked pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.

Special Equipment

Here are 10 tools to make preparing Pigs in a Blanket easier:

• Baking Sheet: For even baking.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
• Pizza Cutter: Makes slicing the crescent dough into smaller pieces easier.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting sausages if needed.
• Mixing Bowl: For whisking the egg wash.
• Whisk: For preparing the egg wash smoothly.
• Cooling Rack: To cool the pigs in a blanket evenly after baking.
• Tongs: For easy handling of the sausages.
• Dipping Bowls: For serving a variety of sauces.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make pigs in a blanket in advance?
   Yes, you can assemble them up to a day ahead and bake just before serving.
2. Can I use full-sized hot dogs?
   Absolutely! Just cut them in half or thirds for smaller portions.
3. What’s the best sausage for this recipe?
   Mini beef sausages or cocktail wieners work best for bite-sized snacks.
4. Do I have to use crescent roll dough?
   Crescent roll dough is traditional, but puff pastry works beautifully too.
5. Can they be frozen?
   Yes, they freeze well before or after baking. Bake frozen pigs in a blanket with a slightly longer cooking time.
6. Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
   No, parchment paper or a silicone mat works best for non-stick baking.

Print

Conclusion

Pigs in a Blanket are a timeless, crowd-pleasing appetizer that never fails to impress. With their buttery, flaky dough wrapped around savory sausages, they’re the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or an elegant party, these little bites will fit right in. You can easily customize them with various fillings, spices, and even dipping sauces to match your preferences, making them a versatile addition to any spread.

These golden, crispy morsels are simple to prepare and sure to be a hit with your guests. Pair them with your favorite mustard, honey, or even a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick. They’re just the right balance of savory and satisfying, making them perfect for any event.

Whip up a batch for your next gathering and enjoy the deliciousness! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your Pigs in a Blanket creations!