Quick and Easy Pigs in a Blanket: The Ultimate Party Appetizer Guide

Easy Homemade Pigs in a Blanket: The Ultimate Party Appetizer

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that never fails to impress? These pigs in a blanket are the perfect solution for your next gathering! Featuring juicy cocktail sausages wrapped in flaky, golden crescent roll dough, this classic American appetizer combines simplicity with deliciousness. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re ideal for holiday parties, game days, or anytime you need a quick and satisfying finger food that everyone will love.

Why These Mini Sausage Rolls Are Always a Hit

There’s something irresistible about the combination of savory sausages and buttery pastry. These bite-sized treats offer:

• Quick preparation – Just 15 minutes of prep time
• Simple ingredients – Only two main components needed
• Kid-friendly appeal – Even picky eaters love them
• Versatility – Perfect for dipping in various sauces
• Make-ahead convenience – Prep early and bake when needed

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Pigs in a Blanket

• 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 24 cocktail sausages or mini hot dogs (approximately one 14-ounce package)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for brushing)
• Everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds for topping (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Sharp knife
• Pastry brush (if using butter wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pigs in a Blanket

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Open the can of crescent roll dough and separate it along the perforated lines to create triangles.
3. Cut each triangle into 3 smaller triangles to create enough dough pieces for all your cocktail sausages.
4. Pat the cocktail sausages dry with a paper towel to ensure good dough adhesion.
5. Place a cocktail sausage at the wide end of each dough triangle and roll it up, gently pressing the edges to seal.
6. Arrange the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet, placing them seam-side down and about 1 inch apart.
7. If desired, lightly brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with your choice of seasoning.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Pigs in a Blanket

• Ensure even cooking by arranging the wrapped sausages with enough space between them on the baking sheet.
• Create a shiny finish by brushing with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with 1 tablespoon water) instead of butter before baking.
• Prevent soggy bottoms by slightly pre-baking the crescent dough for 2-3 minutes before wrapping the sausages.
• Add flavor variations by incorporating a thin slice of cheese or a small amount of mustard before rolling.
• Check for doneness by ensuring the bottoms are golden brown, not just the tops.

Delicious Dipping Sauce Ideas for Pigs in a Blanket

Take your appetizer to the next level with these complementary dipping options:

• Classic Yellow Mustard – A traditional favorite that adds tangy flavor
• Honey Mustard – Sweet and tangy combination that balances the savory sausage
• BBQ Sauce – Adds smoky sweetness to each bite
• Ketchup – Always a crowd-pleaser, especially with kids
• Ranch Dressing – Creamy and herbaceous for a different flavor profile

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

These party favorites can be prepared in advance to make entertaining easier:

• Refrigerate prepared (unbaked) pigs in a blanket for up to 24 hours, covered with plastic wrap.
• Freeze unbaked pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes for best results, or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 3 pigs in a blanket):

• Calories: 458 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 17g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 57mg
• Sodium: 1760mg
• Sugar: 5g

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is always a hit, try these fun twists for variety:

• Cheesy Pigs – Wrap a small strip of cheddar or American cheese around each sausage before enclosing in dough
• Breakfast Version – Use breakfast sausage links and serve with maple syrup for dipping
• Spicy Option – Choose spicy cocktail sausages or add a thin slice of jalapeño before wrapping
• Pretzel Style – Brush with a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon baking soda dissolved in 1 cup hot water) before baking, then top with coarse salt
• Everything Bagel – Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before baking for extra flavor

Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party, holiday gathering, or simple family dinner, these classic pigs in a blanket are guaranteed to disappear quickly! Their irresistible combination of flaky pastry and savory sausage makes them a timeless favorite that appeals to all ages.

Recipe adapted from AllRecipes