The sizzle of the oven brings an unmistakable anticipation, especially when it’s time for one of my all-time favorite snacks: Pigs in a Blanket. The moment those golden, flaky crescent rolls enveloping smoky beef lit’l smokies emerge, my heart sings with nostalgia. These delightful bite-sized treats are the epitome of comfort food that effortlessly elevate any gathering, from casual game nights to festive parties.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients come together to create a warm, inviting appetizer that everyone adores. And the best part? They’re ready in mere minutes, freeing you up to mingle and enjoy the company of friends and family instead of stressing in the kitchen. Whether dipped in mustard or paired with a homemade sauce, these Pigs in a Blanket are sure to be a hit! Let’s dive into the recipe and create some delicious memories together.
Why are Pigs in a Blanket a favorite?
Simplicity is the name of the game—only a few ingredients needed for incredible flavor.
Versatile enough to suit everyone; swap in your favorite sausages or make them vegetarian-friendly!
Quick to prepare, these delightful bites bake to perfection in just minutes, making them perfect for any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser at parties, they disappear faster than you can say “appetizer!”
Customizable with dips or toppings, let your creativity shine and tailor them to your taste!
Pigs in a Blanket Ingredients
For the Dough
• Crescent Roll Dough – Provides a flaky and buttery outer layer; note: can substitute with puff pastry for a different texture.
For the Filling
• Beef Lit’l Smokies – Offers a smoky, savory filling; alternative: use chicken hot dogs for a lighter option.
For the Egg Wash
• Egg – Adds shine and a golden color to the rolls; optional, can be omitted for a softer finish.
Each component plays a crucial role in crafting these beloved Pigs in a Blanket. Enjoy the simple, satisfying journey of bringing this classic appetizer to life in your kitchen!
How to Make Pigs in a Blanket
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your Pigs in a Blanket will bake evenly and get that perfect golden color.
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Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface, and cut each triangle into three equal pieces. This will give you just the right amount of dough for wrapping.
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Roll each dough piece around one lit’l smokie, starting at the wider end and rolling toward the point. Make sure to wrap them snugly for the best texture.
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Place the wrapped sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart to allow for puffing. You want them to shine!
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Brush (Optional) the tops with a whisked mixture of egg and a splash of cold water. This will give your Pigs in a Blanket that beautiful shiny finish.
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Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking—nobody wants dry rolls!
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pigs in a Blanket?
Elevate your gathering with a mix of flavors and textures that will perfectly accompany these delightful bites.
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Mustard Dipping Sauce: A zesty dip that adds sharpness, cutting through the richness of the savory rolls.
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Creamy Ranch Dressing: This cool, herby dressing is the perfect complement, enhancing the smoky flavors while adding a refreshing touch.
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Homemade BBQ Sauce: Sweet and tangy, BBQ sauce provides an irresistible contrast to the savory Pigs in a Blanket, making it a favorite among guests.
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Cheesy Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they add substance to your spread while pairing wonderfully with the bite-sized snacks.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy and refreshing side, coleslaw brings a vibrant crunch that balances the richness of the warm rolls.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory lit’l smokies, offering a textural delight in every bite.
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Garden Salad: A light and vibrant salad will bring freshness to the table, complementing the heaviness of the Pigs in a Blanket effortlessly.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A fun, fizzy drink that adds brightness and liveliness, making it a fantastic pairing for casual gatherings.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, these classic cookies deliver a comforting and nostalgic bite, perfect after the savory delights are gone.
These pairing options will ensure your Pigs in a Blanket stand out even more at your gathering!
Expert Tips for Pigs in a Blanket
- Egg Wash Essential: Applying an egg wash helps achieve that shiny golden finish and lets any toppings adhere. Don’t skip this step for a professional touch!
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close watch while baking; overbaking results in dry rolls. Look for a golden color to ensure perfection.
- Flavor Boost: Sprinkle garlic powder or Italian herbs on the dough before wrapping for added flavor. This small tweak makes your Pigs in a Blanket unforgettable!
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the crescent roll triangles into even pieces to ensure uniform wrapping and baking. This promotes an even texture throughout.
- Experiment: Don’t hesitate to try different sausage types or fillings, like cheese or veggies. The keyword here is versatility—get creative with your Pigs in a Blanket!
Pigs in a Blanket Variations
Feel free to make this classic appetizer your own with these fun and delicious twists!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute lit’l smokies with mini breadsticks or cheese, perfect for a meat-free delight.
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Spicy Kick: Use jalapeño or spicy sausage for those who crave a little heat in their snacks.
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Cheesy Surprise: Add a slice of cheese inside each dough wrap before rolling for a gooey, indulgent twist.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on the dough for a fragrant enhancement that elevates flavors.
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Sweet Twist: For a unique change, use honey mustard or barbecue sauce as a filling for a sweet and tangy experience.
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Whole Wheat Dough: Swap out the crescent roll dough for whole wheat options for a heartier, healthier version.
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Miniature Versions: Make bite-sized versions with smaller sausages or cut the rolls into smaller pieces for perfectly poppable appetizers.
These variations are sure to inspire creativity in your kitchen while ensuring everybody at the table finds something to love!
How to Store and Freeze Pigs in a Blanket
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and ready for your next snack.
Freezer: If you’ve made a big batch, freeze the unbaked Pigs in a Blanket on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.
Reheating: For best results, reheat baked Pigs in a Blanket in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will restore their crispy texture.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare these delightful bites up to 1 day in advance, store them in the fridge, and simply bake before serving—perfect for gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Pigs in a Blanket are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy gatherings! You can prepare the entire batch up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping the lit’l smokies in the crescent roll dough, then placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the prepared Pigs in a Blanket tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to serve, simply preheat the oven and bake them directly from the refrigerator—no need to wait! This way, they will maintain their delicious golden crispiness and fluffiness, allowing you to enjoy your event with minimal fuss.
Pigs in a Blanket Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best crescent roll dough?
Absolutely! Look for a brand that offers flaky and buttery textures for your Pigs in a Blanket. Make sure the dough is fresh and hasn’t reached its expiration date. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use puff pastry for a different, more delicate texture that will impress your guests with its airy lightness.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next snack. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make the rolls soggy.
Can I freeze Pigs in a Blanket?
Of course! If you’ve made a big batch, you can freeze the unbaked Pigs in a Blanket. Start by placing them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time; they’ll be just as delicious!
What should I do if my rolls are undercooked?
No worries! If your Pigs in a Blanket are not fully cooked after the suggested time, simply put them back in the oven. Check them at 2-minute intervals until they reach the perfect golden brown color. Remember, they should be puffy and cooked through—keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Are Pigs in a Blanket safe for my pets?
Definitely keep those away from your furry friends! While beef lit’l smokies are generally safe for humans, they can be high in sodium and additives that could upset your pet’s stomach. It’s always best to stick to pet-safe treats when you’re sharing your kitchen with those lovable companions.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare your Pigs in a Blanket up to 1 day in advance. Simply wrap them and place them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just bake them as instructed. This way, you’ll impress your guests with a freshly baked treat without the last-minute rush!
Pigs in a Blanket: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface, and cut each triangle into three equal pieces.
- Roll each dough piece around one lit'l smokie, starting at the wider end and rolling toward the point.
- Place the wrapped sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart.
- Brush (Optional) the tops with a whisked mixture of egg and a splash of cold water.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.