Introduction
Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket is a beloved appetizer that brings together savory mini cocktail sausages, warm and flaky dough, and melted cheese for an unbeatable combination. This dish is more than just a snack; it’s an experience that delights both the eyes and the palate. Ideal for parties, game days, or casual family get-togethers, these bite-sized wonders are sure to put smiles on the faces of all who indulge.
As you embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to prepare these scrumptious treats. With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that not only tastes phenomenal but also invites excitement around the table. Each bite will reveal juicy sausage enveloped in dough, paired perfectly with cheese and a touch of aromatic seasoning. In this article, we will guide you through the entire process of crafting these delightful morsels.
Recipe Overview
Understanding the basics of this recipe can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some key aspects to consider:
Flavor Profile
– Savory flavors from sausage and cheese
– Aromatic hints from garlic and onion powder
– Freshness from parsley and optional sesame seeds
Texture
– Flaky and golden-brown exterior
– Soft, chewy inside with melted cheese
– Juicy and tender sausages
Serving Suggestions
– Paired with mustard or preferred dipping sauces
– Perfect for large gatherings or quiet family nights
Ingredients
To create the perfect batch of Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
– Mini cocktail sausages (12-16 pieces)
– Crescent roll dough (1 can, 8 oz)
– Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup)
Seasonings
– Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
– Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon)
– Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, finely chopped, optional)
Finishing Touches
– Beaten egg (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, optional, for garnish)
Dipping Sauce
– Mustard or your favorite dipping sauce for serving
Instructions
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Carefully open the can of crescent roll dough and lay it flat on a clean surface. Instead of separating the dough into triangles, pinch the seams together to create one cohesive sheet.
3. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into squares measuring approximately 2×2 inches.
4. Position a mini cocktail sausage in the center of each square of dough. Top each sausage with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Gently fold the corners of each dough square over the sausage and cheese, ensuring to pinch the seams securely to prevent any filling from escaping. Arrange the wrapped sausages in a circular formation on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
6. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, and finely chopped parsley. Brush the beaten egg over the tops of the wrapped sausages, then generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture and sesame seeds on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is puffed up and a beautiful golden brown color.
8. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. These delightful bites are best enjoyed warm, paired with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.
Preparing the Dough
The foundation of any great Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket lies in the dough. Follow these steps for preparation:
Opening the Crescent Roll Dough
Opening the crescent roll dough is a vital step in ensuring the foundation of your dish is flawless. Gently peel away the wrapper of the can, being careful to avoid any sudden pops that might cause the dough to spill out. Lay the dough flat on a clean surface without separating the pre-scored triangles; this is essential for achieving the correct shape for wrapping the sausages.
Shaping the Dough
Once you have the dough laid out, you will need to pinch the seams together. This creates a single sheet of cohesive dough, allowing for easier wrapping of the sausages. Ensure the seams are well-pinned to prevent openings that could lead to cheese or sausage leaking during baking. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter will make slicing through the dough smooth and efficient.
Cutting the Squares
To maintain uniformity, cut the dough into approximately 2×2 inch squares. This size allows for a manageable wrap around the sausages while ensuring they are perfectly snug. The squares should be consistent to facilitate even baking and presentation.
Preparing the Fillings
Creating the filling for the sausages adds layers of flavor to the dish.
Positioning the Sausages
To prepare the filling, place a mini cocktail sausage in the center of each dough square. This is the part of the recipe that really highlights the savory aspect of the snack. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each sausage. The cheese will melt during baking, enveloping the sausage in a gooey, delicious embrace.
Folding Technique
After your sausages are positioned and topped with cheese, it’s time to fold the dough. Gently bring the corners of each dough square up over the sausage and cheese, ensuring to pinch the seams securely. This sealing technique is crucial in keeping the filling intact inside the dough during baking, leading to a delightful explosion of flavor with every bite. Arrange the wrapped sausages onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s a little space between each one to allow for expansion as they bake.
serving platter with thoughtful garnishes.
Pairing with Sides
– Consider serving alongside a fresh vegetable platter or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Hosting Ideas
– Incorporate pull-apart pigs in a blanket into a game-day spread or as part of a party appetizer selection, allowing guests to grab them easily.
Scaling the Recipe
Adjusting the quantity for various occasions can help accommodate more guests:
Doubling the Recipe
– Simply double the number of mini cocktail sausages and crescent roll dough. This ensures there is plenty to go around. Adjust cooking time if necessary to accommodate larger quantities.
Halving the Recipe
– For a smaller gathering, you can easily cut the recipe in half. Utilize a smaller baking sheet or bake in batches to prevent overcrowding.
Storage
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality of your leftover pull-apart pigs in a blanket:
Refrigeration
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing
– For longer-term storage, freeze the wrapped and baked pigs in a blanket. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag for up to 2 months.
Thawing
– When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Ensuring that your leftover pull-apart pigs in a blanket retain their desirable texture when reheated requires the right approach:
Oven Method
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the pigs on a baking sheet and cover lightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from browning too much. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave Method
– For a quicker option, heat in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. However, note that this may result in a softer texture.
Troubleshooting
Addressing common challenges can enhance your cooking experience:
Dough Not Rising
– If the crescent roll dough does not puff up appropriately during baking, ensure that the oven is adequately preheated and not overcrowded. This may lead to uneven baking.
Filling Escaping
– If you find that some sausages have opened up, it’s vital to pinch the seams securely before baking. A gentle but firm press around the edges can help seal them better.
Overbrowning
– If the tops brown too quickly while baking, you can cover them lightly with foil and continue baking until cooked through.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausages?
– While the recipe specifically calls for mini cocktail sausages, you can experiment with different types of sausages. Just ensure they are fully cooked before wrapping.
What if I can’t find crescent roll dough?
– If crescent roll dough is unavailable, you can opt for puff pastry or biscuit dough as alternatives, although the texture will differ slightly.
How do I make them spicier?
– For those who enjoy added heat, consider incorporating jalapeños or using spicy cocktail sausages in your recipe for a kick.
Can I prepare these in advance?
– Yes, you can prepare the unbaked pull-apart pigs in a blanket ahead of time. Assemble as directed and refrigerate for up to one day. Bake just before serving.
What variations can I try?
– Variations may include using different types of cheese, adding cooked bacon bits, or incorporating herbs and spices into the dough.
In summary, pull-apart pigs in a blanket offer a delightful balance of savory flavors and a flaky texture that makes them a favorite at gatherings. With minimal preparation and a baking time of just 15-20 minutes, they are as appealing visually as they are delicious. They pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces and can be easily scaled or modified to suit different occasions.
Easy Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 package mini cocktail sausages
- 1 can crescent roll dough
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Mustard or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Open the can of crescent roll dough and lay it flat, pinching the seams together.
- Slice the dough into squares measuring approximately 2x2 inches.
- Place a mini cocktail sausage in the center of each square and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fold the corners of each square over the sausage and cheese, pinching the seams securely.
- Arrange the wrapped sausages on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Combine garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley in a small bowl and brush the mixture over the tops.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture and sesame seeds on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.