Pigs in a blanket are a yummy snack that mix meat with flaky dough, and they’re super easy to make. People have been wrapping little sausages or hot dogs in dough for ages—way back when folks used bread to keep their meat fresh. Today, these bite-sized treats pop up at parties, game nights, and family dinners because everyone loves dunking them in ketchup or mustard.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make great pigs in a blanket. First, we’ll cover the basic ingredients, then some swaps if you want to try something different. You’ll get step-by-step directions so even if you never baked a thing before, you can still pull it off. We’ve also got tips to boost the flavor and get the dough perfectly crisp. Plus, you’ll find nutrition info, fun twists, serving ideas, and answers to common questions. Party snack or midnight munchies—this article has your back!
Ingredients
These little dough wraps only need a handful of items, but they pack a ton of flavor. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
Classic Ingredients
- Hot dogs or sausages: Mini hot dogs or cocktail sausages work best, but you can try any sausage you like.
- Crescent roll dough: Store-bought dough is quick and gives you that buttery, flaky crust. You could use biscuit dough or home-made pastry too.
- Optional cheese: A slice of cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack inside makes it extra gooey and tasty.
- Herbs and spices: You don’t have to, but a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder or Italian seasoning adds nice flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
If you want to switch things up or fit special diets, try these:
- Alternate meats: Turkey or chicken sausages are leaner, or grab a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- Different dough: Puff pastry or biscuit dough give you a different texture and taste.
Directions
Alright, let’s build these tasty bites. Follow these steps:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) so the dough bakes evenly and turns golden.
- Prep sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to stop sticking.
- Roll the dough: Unroll your crescent dough on a clean surface, then split along the perforations into triangles.
- Cut strips: If you want smaller bites, slice each triangle into two or three strips.
- Assemble: Lay a sausage at the wide end of each triangle or strip, then roll toward the point, covering it completely.
- Add cheese (if using): Lay a small piece of cheese on the dough before you place the sausage, so it melts inside.
- Bake: Arrange your pigs in a blanket on the sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until they’re golden brown. Let them cool a few minutes before eating.
- Pro tip: Brush with a beaten egg for a shiny crust, or sprinkle sesame seeds or sea salt on top.
Tips for the Perfect Pigs in a Blanket
Cooking Techniques
Baking vs. Air Frying: You can air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes to get extra crisp edges—just watch so they don’t burn.
Even baking: Don’t crowd the pan. Give each roll some room so hot air can crisp them up all around.
Flavor Enhancements
Spice it up: Dust the dough with paprika or chili powder before rolling for a little heat.
Dips: Serve with ketchup, mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for sweet and tangy fun.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough idea of what one serving (about 3–4 pieces) contains:
- Calories: Around 150–200
- Fats: 8–12 grams
- Protein: 5–10 grams
- Carbs: 15–20 grams
For a lighter snack, pick lower-fat sausages and whole-grain dough.
Popular Variations
Themed Twists
Mini versions: Cut sausages in half so guests can pick up more pieces.
Bacon wrap: Add a thin slice of bacon around each sausage before rolling in dough.
International Flavors
Jalapeño cheddar: Toss some diced jalapeño with shredded cheddar inside the dough for a spicy, melty kick.
Puff pastry upgrade: Use puff pastry and fancy sausages (like chorizo or andouille) for a gourmet twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Best occasions: Game days, birthday parties, potlucks, or any time you want easy finger food.
- Presentation: Arrange on a big platter and surround with small bowls of different sauces and fresh herbs.
FAQs
What sausage works best?
Mini hot dogs or cocktail sausages are classic, but feel free to use turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian sausages.
Can I prep ahead?
Yep, you can wrap them and keep in the fridge for a few hours. Just bake right before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Put them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze them?
Sure—freeze unbaked pigs in a blanket in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes.
What dips go well?
Mustard, ketchup, ranch, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even cheese sauce are all great options.
Are they healthy?
They’re a treat, since dough and sausage are higher in fat and calories. Use lean meats and whole-grain dough to make them better for you.
Conclusion
Pigs in a blanket are simple, fun, and always a hit. You can stick to the classic recipe or get creative with fillings, spices, and dips. Either way, your friends and family will love these warm, tasty bites.
Recipe Card
Ingredients: Mini hot dogs or sausages, crescent roll dough, cheese (optional), spices.
Steps: Preheat oven, line sheet, roll dough, assemble, bake 12–15 minutes, serve with dips.
pigs in a blanket recipe
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper optional
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 sharp knife for cutting dough
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 24 pieces mini cocktail sausages 1 package (8 oz)
- 16 oz refrigerated crescent roll dough 2 cans (8 oz each)
- 1 cup shredded cheese Optional, cheddar or American
- 1 large egg For egg wash
- 1 tablespoon water
- as needed spray/oil cooking spray or oil To grease baking sheet
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Roll out one can of crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Make sure to seal the perforations where the triangles meet, as you'll need a solid sheet of dough.
- Cut the dough into small triangles using a sharp knife, about 3 inches at the base.
- Place a mini sausage at the wide end of each triangle and, if desired, add a little shredded cheese on top.
- Roll the dough around the sausage and cheese, starting from the wide end, and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat the process with the second can of crescent roll dough.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the mixture over each pig in a blanket to give them a nice golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they do not burn.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds on top of the egg wash before baking.
