Pigs in a Blanket Recipe | Easy Party Appetizer
1. Introduction
If there’s one appetizer that never fails to please both kids and adults alike, it’s Pigs in a Blanket. Warm, flaky, buttery pastry wrapped around savory sausages — simple, comforting, and irresistibly snackable.
This timeless party favorite has been a go-to for generations because it’s easy to make, affordable, and universally loved. Whether you’re hosting a game day, holiday party, or just need a cozy finger food for movie night, pigs in a blanket deliver every time.
They bake up crisp and golden on the outside while staying juicy and flavorful inside. Plus, you can dress them up or down — from classic cocktail wieners and crescent rolls to gourmet versions with puff pastry, cheese, or everything bagel seasoning.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect pigs in a blanket every time: flaky, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need for the classic version — along with easy swaps and pro tips:
1. Cocktail Sausages or Mini Hot Dogs (1 package / about 24 pieces)
These are the “pigs” of the recipe — small, juicy, and perfectly bite-sized. You can also use full-sized hot dogs cut into halves or thirds.
2. Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough (1 can, 8 oz)
The “blanket” that gives you that buttery, flaky texture. Puff pastry also works beautifully if you want a richer, more gourmet feel.
3. Egg Wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
Brushed on top to create a golden, glossy finish.
4. Optional Toppings:
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for crunch and color.
- Everything bagel seasoning for bold flavor.
- Grated cheddar cheese rolled inside for a cheesy version.
5. Dipping Sauces:
Classic options include ketchup, yellow mustard, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or spicy mayo.
Dietary Adjustments:
- Use chicken or turkey sausages for a lighter version.
- Try vegetarian hot dogs for a meat-free option.
- Use gluten-free pastry if needed.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough and Sausages
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Pat the sausages dry with a paper towel — this helps the dough stick better and bake evenly.
Step 2: Cut and Wrap
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles.
Cut each triangle into smaller strips (about 3 per triangle).
Wrap each sausage tightly with a strip of dough, starting from one end and rolling up.
Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Tip: For extra flair, tuck a small piece of cheese under the sausage before wrapping.
Step 3: Brush and Top
Brush the tops with egg wash for that beautiful golden sheen.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning if desired.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Remove and let cool for a few minutes before serving — they’ll be crisp outside and tender inside.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, or spicy cheese dip.
4. Tips and Variations
Pro Tips:
- Dry your sausages first so the dough doesn’t get soggy.
- Don’t overwrap — a single layer of dough ensures even cooking.
- Serve immediately for the flakiest texture.
- Make-ahead tip: Assemble them up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Flavor Variations:
- Cheesy Pigs: Add a small slice of cheddar or mozzarella before rolling.
- Bacon-Wrapped Pigs: Wrap each sausage in a thin slice of bacon before the dough.
- Everything Bagel Pigs: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning after brushing with egg wash.
- Spicy Pigs: Add a dab of sriracha or jalapeño slice inside for a kick.
- Breakfast Pigs: Use breakfast sausages and serve with maple syrup for dipping.
5. Serving Suggestions
Perfect For:
- Game day snacks
- Holiday appetizers
- Brunch spreads
- Movie night finger food
Best Dipping Sauces:
- Classic ketchup and mustard
- Spicy honey mustard
- Cheese sauce or nacho dip
- Ranch dressing
- BBQ sauce
Side Ideas:
- Crispy fries or potato wedges
- Coleslaw
- Mini pickles or gherkins
Drink Pairings:
- Light beer or cider
- Lemonade or iced tea
- Sparkling water with citrus
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, arrange baked pigs in a single layer, freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Keeps up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes until warm and crisp.
- Air fryer: 350°F for 4–5 minutes works perfectly.
- Microwave: 20–30 seconds for a quick fix (less crisp).
7. Recipe Notes
- Can be assembled ahead and stored unbaked in the fridge.
- For extra flavor, brush with garlic butter before baking.
- Works great with puff pastry for a flakier texture.
- Mini versions are ideal for parties or appetizers.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving — 3 pieces)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Calcium | 25 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8 (24 pieces)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 package cocktail sausages (24 count)
- 1 can crescent roll dough
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, cheddar cheese, everything bagel seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Dry sausages and cut dough into strips.
- Wrap each sausage with dough and place seam-side down.
- Brush with egg wash and add toppings.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with dipping sauces.
🏷️ Diet Tags
- Kid-Friendly
- Party Appetizer
- Comfort Food
- Quick Snack
🌿 Health Benefits
- High in protein from sausages.
- Easy to portion and control serving sizes.
- Can be made lighter with turkey or chicken sausages.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make pigs in a blanket ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate unbaked up to 24 hours, then bake fresh before serving.
2. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze baked or unbaked. Reheat baked ones directly from frozen in the oven.
3. What’s the best dough to use?
Crescent roll dough is classic, but puff pastry gives a richer, more buttery texture.
4. Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes — use plant-based sausages or veggie dogs for an easy vegetarian version.
5. How do I keep them warm for a party?
Place baked pigs in a blanket in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting or a low oven (200°F).
11. Final Thoughts
Pigs in a Blanket are the definition of simple joy — quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. They’re flaky, savory, and perfectly dippable, making them the star of any party spread.
Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, watching the big game, or just need a snack everyone will love, this recipe delivers every single time.