If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s both delightfully simple and irresistibly tasty, this Pigs in a Blanket Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy smokies wrapped in buttery, golden crescent dough with a whisper of tangy Dijon mustard adding just the right kick. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party favorite, these little bites pack a punch of flavor and nostalgia all baked into one. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just because you want a fun and easy treat, this recipe will become your go-to for guaranteed smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Pigs in a Blanket Recipe is an absolute joy because each one plays a starring role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Simple yet essential, these ingredients transform everyday items into something unforgettable.
- 2 (8-oz) cans refrigerated crescent rolls: The flaky, buttery dough that crisps up beautifully in the oven, wrapping each smokie with warmth.
- 1 (14-oz) package Hillshire Farms Lit’l Smokies: These bite-sized sausages offer a smoky, juicy center that’s simply delicious when nestled inside dough.
- â…“ cup Dijon mustard: A tangy spread that gives a subtle zing, perfectly balancing the richness of the crescent rolls and smokies.
How to Make Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375ºF. This temperature is ideal — it crisps up the crescent dough to a golden-brown perfection while warming the smokies through without drying them out. Having the oven ready means your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough and Mustard
Unroll the crescent rolls from both cans and separate them into the original 16 triangles per can. Then, generously spread about a heaping teaspoon of Dijon mustard on each triangle. This mustard layer is a secret hero in this dish, adding a pop of flavor that makes each bite more exciting. Next, cut each triangle lengthwise into three narrow slices — these smaller triangles will perfectly wrap around your smokies for easy-to-handle bites.
Step 3: Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket
Place one smokie on the wide end of each narrow triangle. By starting with the wide side, you ensure the dough wraps smoothly and securely around the sausage. Roll each triangle tightly around the smokie and place them seam side down on an ungreased cookie sheet. The ungreased surface helps the dough crisp without sticking, so your pigs in a blanket come off easily and look picture-perfect.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your assembled Pigs in a Blanket into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for a beautiful golden-brown color — that’s the sign they’re ready to pull out. The crescents will be perfectly flaky, and the smokies will be warm and juicy inside. Serve them up fresh and watch everyone dive in!
How to Serve Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Garnishes
Add a colorful touch with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives. For dipping, classic yellow mustard or a creamy ranch dressing works wonders. If you like it spicy, a drizzle of sriracha mayo will bring a fun kick to each bite.
Side Dishes
Pigs in a Blanket are fantastic on their own but pairing them with a crisp green salad or crunchy veggie sticks brings balance and freshness. For a heartier spread, serve alongside baked beans or coleslaw for that perfect game day combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange your Pigs in a Blanket on a large platter lined with parchment paper, adding small bowls of dipping sauces right in the middle for easy access. You can also thread them onto skewers between cherry tomatoes and cheese cubes for a playful finger food experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten Pigs in a Blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for a quick snack or a packed lunch the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, freeze uncooked, assembled pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once firm. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple extra minutes to the bake time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop them in a 350ºF oven for about 8 minutes or until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful crispiness intact.
FAQs
Can I use regular hot dogs instead of Lit’l Smokies?
Absolutely! Regular hot dogs work just fine. Cut them into smaller pieces if you want bite-sized Pigs in a Blanket that match the original recipe’s fun size.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Pigs in a Blanket Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute plant-based sausages or veggie dogs. Just follow the same assembly and baking instructions — the crescent dough and mustard will make them equally delicious.
What sauce goes best with Pigs in a Blanket?
Dijon mustard is a classic, but honey mustard, ketchup, barbecue sauce, or even spicy mayo are all fantastic options that complement the flavors beautifully.
Can I make these ahead and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble them, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes entertaining a breeze.
How do I keep the dough from getting soggy?
Spreading the Dijon mustard thinly and baking at the right temperature ensures the dough crisps up nicely. Also, placing them seam side down helps seal the dough and lock in moisture from the smokies.
Final Thoughts
This Pigs in a Blanket Recipe is a timeless hit that brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these bites of comfort food are easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. From simple gatherings to festive celebrations, keep this recipe in your back pocket because it’s one you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 48 pigs in a blanket
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious, bite-sized pigs in a blanket featuring savory Lit’l Smokies wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough with a tangy Dijon mustard spread, perfect as a party appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 (8-oz) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 (14-oz) package Hillshire Farms Lit’l Smokies
- â…“ cup Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough and separate each into 16 triangles, for a total of 32 triangles. Spread a heaping teaspoon of Dijon mustard evenly on each triangle to add a flavorful tang.
- Slice the Dough: Cut each triangle lengthwise into 3 narrow triangles, creating 96 thin strips of dough perfect for wrapping the sausages.
- Wrap the Sausages: Place one Lit’l Smokie on the wide end of each dough strip, then roll the dough around the sausage, sealing the edges slightly as you go. Arrange the wrapped sausages on an ungreased cookie sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until the crescent rolls are puffed and a beautiful golden brown.
Notes
- For a spicier variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Dijon mustard before spreading.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the cookie sheet to allow even baking and browning.
- Serve warm with additional mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.
- You can prepare these ahead and refrigerate before baking, adding a couple extra minutes to the bake time if cooking from cold.
