Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

What are Pigs in a Blanket?

The term "pigs in a blanket" conjures up images of a delightful and easy-to-eat snack, particularly in the United States. Here, this popular appetizer typically consists of small sausages, such as cocktail sausages or mini hot dogs, snugly wrapped in a blanket of pastry. The "blanket" is most often made from convenient refrigerated crescent roll dough, but variations using puff pastry or biscuit dough are also common. It is important to note that the culinary landscape varies, and in the United Kingdom, the same name refers to small sausages wrapped in bacon, a different yet equally appealing treat. For the purpose of this guide, we will focus on the beloved American version that graces many party tables.

Why are they so popular?

The enduring popularity of pigs in a blanket as an appetizer can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost is their simplicity. The recipe often calls for just a few readily available ingredients and requires minimal preparation time, making it a go-to choice for busy hosts. The combination of a savory, often slightly smoky sausage encased in a flaky, warm dough creates a textural and flavor contrast that appeals to a wide range of palates, from children to adults. Their convenient bite-sized form makes them ideal for parties and gatherings, allowing guests to easily enjoy them while mingling. Furthermore, their inherent "dippability" adds to their snackable charm, inviting a variety of flavorful sauces to enhance the experience. The ease with which this appetizer comes together and its universally liked flavor profile explain why it remains a staple at countless events.

Ingredients for Perfect Pigs in a Blanket

Here's what you'll need to create your own batch of delicious pigs in a blanket:

2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough (such as Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls)
48 cocktail-size smoked link sausages or mini hot dogs (approximately two 14-ounce packages)
1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (optional, for a golden-brown finish and to help toppings adhere)
2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning (optional, for added flavor and texture)
1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (optional, if not using everything bagel seasoning or for extra saltiness)
Optional additions: shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan) or garlic butter (for brushing after baking)

The core of this recipe lies in the simple combination of dough and sausage. However, the optional ingredients offer opportunities to enhance the flavor and appearance, demonstrating the adaptability of this seemingly basic appetizer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to prepare and bake your pigs in a blanket to perfection:

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven to ensure even heat distribution during baking.
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This crucial step prevents the pigs in a blanket from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup much easier. The parchment paper also aids in even browning of the pastry.
Open the cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough. Carefully unroll the dough and separate it into the pre-cut triangles by following the perforated lines.
Take each of the dough triangles and cut them lengthwise into thirds, starting from the narrow tip and slicing through to the wide end. This technique ensures that you have long, thin strips of dough that are perfectly proportioned for wrapping the small sausages, preventing an overly doughy or insufficiently covered result.
Use paper towels to pat the cocktail sausages dry, removing any excess moisture. This seemingly small step is important as it helps prevent the dough from becoming soggy during baking, ensuring a flaky and crisp exterior.

Wrapping and Baking:

Place one cocktail sausage on the widest end of one of the narrow dough triangles.
Starting from the wide end where the sausage is placed, gently roll the dough up towards the pointed tip, ensuring that the sausage is completely enclosed within the pastry.
Place the wrapped sausage onto the prepared baking sheet with the point side of the rolled dough facing down. Positioning them seam-down helps to prevent the rolls from unraveling as they bake and puff up in the oven.
Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining dough triangles and sausages, arranging them evenly on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, bake the pigs in a blanket in batches.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water until well combined to create an egg wash.
Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of all the wrapped pigs in a blanket with the prepared egg wash. This step not only imparts a beautiful golden-brown color to the baked pastry but also adds a subtle sheen.
If desired, sprinkle half of the pigs in a blanket with everything bagel seasoning and the other half with coarse sea salt. Feel free to experiment with other toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crescent dough has turned a deep golden brown and appears flaky. To ensure even browning, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time. Keep a close eye on them as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
Once they are beautifully golden, immediately transfer the baked pigs in a blanket from the baking sheet to a serving platter. Serve them hot for the best taste and texture.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Pigs in a blanket are delicious on their own, but offering a variety of accompaniments can elevate the experience. Consider these creative serving suggestions:

Delicious Dipping Sauces:
- For a classic touch, serve with yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, honey mustard, and ketchup.
- Offer savory options like BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple creamy mustard dip made by mixing mayonnaise with your favorite mustard.
- Spice things up with a spicy mayo (combine mayonnaise with chili-garlic sauce or Sriracha), stone ground mustard, or a flavorful jalapeno cream cheese dip.
- Introduce sweet and tangy notes with honey mixed with brown mustard, maple Dijon mustard, or even a vibrant raspberry chipotle sauce.
- For a more adventurous twist, consider garlic aioli, queso, sweet and sour sauce, or a homemade beer cheese sauce.

Complementary Side Dishes:
- Pair them with classic finger food sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or seasoned potato wedges.
- Offer a refreshing contrast with a side of coleslaw or a simple yet satisfying fresh garden salad.
- Create a more substantial appetizer spread by including other favorites like mozzarella sticks, mini sliders, or crispy chicken wings.
- For a more filling meal, consider serving pigs in a blanket alongside baked beans, creamy macaroni and cheese, or a comforting cup of soup.

The versatility of pigs in a blanket allows them to be paired with a wide array of flavors and dishes, making them suitable for various occasions and personal preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Knowing how to properly store and reheat leftover pigs in a blanket ensures that you can enjoy their deliciousness even after the initial serving.

Storing Leftovers:
- Allow the cooked pigs in a blanket to cool completely to room temperature before storing them. This prevents condensation from forming, which can negatively affect the texture of the pastry.
- For short-term storage, place the cooled pigs in a blanket in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- To freeze them for longer storage, first arrange the completely cooled pigs in a blanket in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until they are solid, which usually takes about an hour (this is known as flash freezing). Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. Properly stored, they can last in the freezer for up to 1 month while maintaining good quality.

Reheating for Best Taste and Texture:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet and reheat them for 8 to 12 minutes, or until they are heated through and the pastry regains its crispness. If you are reheating frozen pigs in a blanket, it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first for the most even heating. Alternatively, you can bake them from frozen, but you will need to extend the baking time to approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Reheating in the oven is generally the best method for restoring the desired flaky texture of the dough.
- Air Fryer: The air fryer is another excellent option for reheating. Place the leftover pigs in a blanket in the air fryer and reheat them at around 250°F (120°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or at a slightly higher temperature of 350°F (175°C) for 6 to 8 minutes, until they are thoroughly heated and the pastry becomes crispy again.
- Microwave: While you can reheat pigs in a blanket in the microwave for speed and convenience, be aware that this method may result in a softer, less crispy dough texture. If you choose to use a microwave, heat them in short intervals until they are warmed through.

Additional Tips and Variations

One of the great things about pigs in a blanket is their versatility. Here are some ideas to customize the recipe and add your own creative flair:

Different Sausages:
- Explore using various types of sausages such as breakfast sausage links for a different flavor profile, smoked sausages for a smoky taste, Vienna sausages, or even bratwurst cut into smaller pieces.
- For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider using spicy sausages or adding a small slice of jalapeno pepper alongside the sausage before wrapping it in the dough.
- To cater to vegetarian or vegan guests, you can easily substitute traditional sausages with plant-based alternatives.
Cheese Additions:
- For a melty surprise inside, add a small slice of your favorite cheese (such as cheddar, American, mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a dollop of cream cheese) along with the sausage before rolling it up in the dough.
- Alternatively, you can sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the wrapped pigs in a blanket before baking for a cheesy crust.
Dough Alternatives:
- For an extra flaky and buttery pastry, try using puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough.
- If you prefer a softer, more bread-like texture, refrigerated biscuit dough can be a great option for the "blanket".
- For a unique sweet and savory combination, consider wrapping the sausages in cinnamon roll dough.
- For the more adventurous home cook, making your own dough from scratch can elevate the dish even further.
Flavor Enhancements:
- Brush the tops of the dough with melted butter or garlic butter either before or immediately after baking to add richness and flavor.
- Experiment with sprinkling different seasonings on top of the egg-washed dough, such as ranch seasoning, garlic salt, or Italian seasoning.
- For an extra layer of flavor, try spreading a thin layer of mustard (such as Dijon or whole grain) inside the dough before wrapping the sausage.

To help you visualize the possibilities, here's a quick overview of some popular variations:

Conclusion

Pigs in a blanket stand out as a truly beloved appetizer, and for good reason. Their simplicity makes them incredibly accessible to home cooks of all skill levels, while their delicious combination of savory sausage and comforting pastry ensures they are always a hit at any gathering. The inherent versatility of this recipe invites creativity, encouraging you to experiment with different types of sausages, cheeses, and doughs to find your perfect variation. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into more adventurous territory with unique dipping sauces and flavor enhancements, pigs in a blanket are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and try making these delightful treats at home.