Memories of gatherings with loved ones often revolve around delicious finger foods. One appetizer stands out in my mind – the irresistible little smokies pigs in a blanket. These bite-sized delights bring people together, creating warmth and nostalgia.
Whether it’s a lively game day, a cozy family get-together, or a festive holiday bash, little smokies pigs in a blanket are perfect. They’re crowd-pleasers and easy to make, making them ideal for any occasion.
Key Takeaways
- Little smokies pigs in a blanket are a classic party appetizer made with mini sausages wrapped in crescent dough.
- They are quick and easy to prepare, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- These finger-friendly bites are perfect for gatherings, serving up to 24 people.
- With their versatile flavor profile, little smokies pigs in a blanket can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces.
- The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to explore creative variations and cater to different tastes.
What Are Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket?
Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket are a tasty appetizer loved by many. They are made with mini sausages, like Hillshire Beef Lit’l Smokies, wrapped in crescent roll dough. This mix of juicy sausages and flaky dough is a hit at parties and family events.
Definition and Description
The name “Pigs in a Blanket” comes from how the sausages are wrapped in dough. It looks like a pig in a blanket. You can also add cheese, spices, or different sausages to make it your own.
History of the Dish
- Pigs in a Blanket started in the early 20th century. It was a simple but tasty snack for parties.
- Later, pre-made crescent roll dough and more sausage options made it even easier to make.
- Now, Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket are a favorite among cooks and chefs everywhere.
“Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket are a crowd-pleasing classic that never fail to delight guests at any party or gathering.”
Ingredients You’ll Need for Little Smokies
To make the classic Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket, you need a few basic things. At the center are the cocktail sausages, also called mini hot dogs or Lit’l Smokies. Alongside these are the blanket dough, usually cold crescent roll dough that wraps the sausages.
Mini Hot Dogs
The main ingredient is the mini sausages, known as Lit’l Smokies or cocktail sausages. These are fully cooked, small sausages in many flavors like pork, beef, or turkey. You can find them in the cold section of most grocery stores.
Crescent Roll Dough
The second key part is the blanket dough, which is cold crescent roll dough. Pillsbury offers different crescent roll types, like original, reduced-fat, or honey-butter. This dough covers the mini sausages, making them look like “pigs in a blanket.”
Optional Cheese and Seasonings
You can add some optional ingredients for more flavor. Shredded cheese gives a cheesy twist, while everything bagel seasoning, garlic salt, and black pepper add extra taste. These extras can make your party appetizers even better.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough | 1 (8-ounce) can |
| Lit’l Smokies Smoked Sausages | 1 (14-ounce) package |
| Garlic Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
“The beauty of Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket is their simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and crowd-pleasing party appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.”
How to Prepare Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making tasty crescent roll wraps for your next party is easy. Start by cutting each Pillsbury Crescent Roll triangle into three strips. Then, wrap a Lit’l Smokies sausage in each strip, beginning from the wide end.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate each triangle into three equal strips.
- Place a Lit’l Smokies sausage at the wide end of each dough strip.
- Tightly roll the dough around the sausage, starting from the wide end and working towards the pointed tip.
- Arrange the wrapped pigs in a blanket seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the crescent roll wraps are golden brown.
Tips for Handling Dough
Be gentle when working with the crescent roll dough. Avoid overworking or stretching it too much. This helps keep the dough flaky and buttery. Also, leave some space between the sausages on the baking sheet. This lets them puff up and look perfect.
“The key to making the perfect party appetizers is all in the dough handling. Take your time and be gentle, and you’ll end up with delicious, flaky pigs in a blanket that will be the hit of the gathering.”
Cooking Methods for Little Smokies
There are many ways to cook little smokies pigs in a blanket. Oven baking is the most popular. But, you can also try air frying or slow cooking for different results.
Oven Baking
Oven baking is the classic method. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Wrap mini sausages in crescent roll dough, sealing the edges.
Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes. The dough should be golden, and the sausages should be 165°F inside.
Air Frying
Air frying is quicker and crispier. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Wrap sausages in dough and place them in the basket.
Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway. The dough should be golden, and the sausages should be hot.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is easy and hands-off. Wrap sausages in dough and put them in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours.
The dough should be cooked, and the sausages should be hot. Watch them to avoid dryness. Serve with your favorite dips for a tasty snack.
Creative Variations to Try
Little smokies pigs in a blanket offer endless flavor possibilities. The classic mix of mini hot dogs and crescent dough is loved by many. But, you can make it your own with a few tweaks.
Cheese-Stuffed Versions
For a cheesy twist, fill the mini hot dogs with your favorite cheese. Try shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or cream cheese. It adds a tasty surprise to your little smokies pigs in a blanket.
Spicy Jalapeño Pigs in a Blanket
Add diced jalapeños to the filling or on top for a spicy kick. The mix of hot dogs, dough, and jalapeños makes a delicious creative appetizer.
Sweet and Savory Combinations
Try mixing sweet and savory flavors. Brush the little smokies pigs in a blanket with honey or maple syrup before baking. Or, sprinkle them with brown sugar and spices.
Little smokies pigs in a blanket are incredibly versatile. Whether you stick to classic flavors or try new ones, there’s always a way to make them special.
Serving Suggestions for Parties
Little smokies pigs in a blanket are perfect for parties. They’re tasty and easy to eat. Serve them with different dipping sauces to make them even better.
Dipping Sauces
Give your guests a range of dipping sauces. You can offer ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, and fry sauce. These sauces add flavor and fun to your little smokies pigs in a blanket.
Plating Ideas
Make your little smokies pigs in a blanket look good. Put them on a fancy platter or in a basket. Use a heated tray to keep them warm. This makes them look and taste great.
It’s all about making your little smokies pigs in a blanket easy to grab. With different sauces and creative plating, they’ll be the hit of the party.
Nutritional Information for Little Smokies
Little smokies pigs in a blanket are a favorite at parties. It’s key to know their nutritional facts. Each bite has about 90 calories, 6.3g of fat, 6.7g of carbs, and 2.1g of protein. They also have around 212.7mg of sodium per serving.
For those watching their health, there are healthier options available. Using lower-fat sausages or whole-grain dough can cut down calories and fat. Adding fresh veggies or dips can also make the dish more balanced.
| Nutritional Fact | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Fat | 6.3g |
| Carbohydrates | 6.7g |
| Protein | 2.1g |
| Sodium | 212.7mg |
By choosing healthier alternatives, hosts can make sure their guests enjoy little smokies pigs in a blanket. This way, everyone can have a good time without worrying too much about their diet.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pigs in a Blanket
Making the perfect little smokies pigs in a blanket is easy with a few tips. These tips help ensure even cooking and a flaky, golden-brown dough. By following these steps, you can make these appetizers the highlight of any event.
Avoiding Overcooked Dough
One common mistake is overcooking the dough, making it dry. To avoid this, keep an eye on the oven temperature and baking time. Preheat your oven to 375°F for best results. Also, leave about 2 inches of space between each wrapped mini hot dog on the baking sheet. This lets the dough puff up and cook evenly without getting crowded.
Ensuring Even Cooking
- Use a pizza wheel cutter for quick and precise dough slicing. This helps create uniform pieces that will bake evenly.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and even heat distribution.
- Cook the pigs in a blanket until they reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
By following these simple tips, you’ll make the perfect cocktail sausage rolls. They’ll be flaky, golden-brown, and evenly cooked every time. With a little attention to detail, these appetizers will impress your guests and satisfy their cravings.
Pairing Drinks with Little Smokies
When it comes to party appetizers like Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket, the right drink can really make a difference. Whether it’s a game day party or a family gathering, these tasty bites go well with many drinks.
Beer and Wine Options
For a party for adults, try pairing Little Smokies with craft beers or a cool white wine. The salty taste of the pigs in a blanket goes well with the bitterness of an IPA or the zing of a Sauvignon Blanc. You can also try a bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, for a fun flavor mix.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
For a family-friendly event, choose drinks that everyone can enjoy. Serve Little Smokies with sparkling juices like apple or cranberry, or classic sodas for a fun and kid-friendly choice. A festive punch or lemonade can also add to the savory snack.
It doesn’t matter what drink you choose, the goal is to find a match that brings out the best in your Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket. Try different drink pairings to find the perfect match for your party appetizers.
Ideal Occasions for Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket
Little smokies pigs in a blanket are perfect for parties, game days, or tailgating. They’re great for family gatherings and holiday celebrations too. These tasty bites are loved by everyone.
Game Days
At game-watching parties or big game events, little cocktail sausage rolls are a top pick. They’re easy to make and loved by all. Try them with different dipping sauces for an extra treat.
Family Gatherings
They’re perfect for family get-togethers, from casual potlucks to big celebrations. Kids and adults alike love them. Serve them with your favorite sides for a meal everyone will enjoy.
Holiday Celebrations
These bites are great for holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, or the Fourth of July. They look festive and taste amazing. You can even add holiday flavors to make them special.
“Pigs in a blanket are always a hit, no matter the occasion. They’re easy to make, appealing to all ages, and can be customized to suit any event.”
Little smokies pigs in a blanket are perfect for many events. They’re simple yet delicious. So, include them in your next party or gathering for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
After enjoying the tasty little smokies pigs in a blanket, you might have leftovers. Don’t worry, these appetizers can be stored and reheated for later enjoyment.
Best Practices for Storage
Let your little smokies pigs in a blanket cool down. Then, put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the pastry crispy and your leftovers fresh.
Reheating Techniques
Ready to enjoy your leftovers? You have a few ways to reheat them. For the best taste, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. This makes the pastry warm and crisp.
Or, you can use the microwave. But, it might make the pastry a bit softer.
You can also prepare the pigs in a blanket ahead of time. Just cover them and refrigerate until baking time. This way, you can serve fresh, hot appetizers without the rush.
By following these tips, your little smokies pigs in a blanket will stay delicious. Even after the first time, they’re ready to be enjoyed again.
“The secret to the perfect pigs in a blanket is all in the reheating – it’s the key to maintaining that irresistible crispiness!”
Conclusion: Why Little Smokies Pigs in a Blanket Are a Hit
Little Smokies pigs in a blanket are loved by many at parties and in homes. They are easy to make and taste great. You need just a few things: sausages, crescent dough, and sometimes an egg wash.
Recap of Versatility and Ease
These pigs in a blanket are great because you can change them up. Try different sausages like apple or spicy jalapeño. They’re easy to make, baking in 25 minutes, and don’t take much work.
They’re perfect for any event. Whether it’s a game-day, family get-together, or holiday party, they’re a hit.
Encouragement to Experiment at Home
Little Smokies pigs in a blanket are perfect for trying new things at home. You can add cheese or mix sweet and savory flavors. This lets you make the dish your own.
Don’t be afraid to get creative. Let your cooking skills shine at your next gathering.