Everything Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Everything Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

This quick and easy air fryer recipe for pigs in blankets is a perfect appetizer or snack, combining the savory goodness of cocktail sausages with flaky crescent roll dough and everything bagel seasoning. Enjoy these crispy, golden treats in just minutes!

Ingredients

  • 1 (14 ounce) package cocktail sausages (such as Lil' Smokies)
  • 1 (8 ounce) can crescent roll dough
  • 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 390F (195C).

Step 2: Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface.

Step 3: Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning evenly over the dough, pressing gently to make sure it sticks.

Step 4: Separate the dough into triangles. Using a pizza cutter, slice each triangle lengthwise into three long, thin triangles.

Step 5: Place one cocktail sausage at the wide end of each dough triangle, and then roll it up towards the point, wrapping the sausage securely in the dough.

Step 6: Arrange the wrapped sausages (pigs in blankets) in the basket of the air fryer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 7: Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Fact Amount
Calories 209
Total Fat 16g
Saturated Fat 7g
Cholesterol 36mg
Sodium 887mg
Total Carbohydrates 10g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 6g
Calcium 16mg
Iron 1mg
Potassium 128mg

Servings: 10

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Fascinating Story Behind Everything Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, in its simplest form, are small sausages wrapped in dough. The origins of this snack date back to European culinary traditions, particularly in England and France, where sausages were often baked in pastries. The American variation, especially the "Everything Pigs in a Blanket," evolved as a playful and flavorful twist using crescent roll dough and everything bagel seasoning, combining two classic comfort foods into one irresistible appetizer.

Regional Characteristics and Variations

While pigs in a blanket are enjoyed across the United States, regional variations influence both the dough and seasoning. In the Midwest, the dish is often paired with cheddar cheese or mustard for dipping, while coastal regions might favor seafood sausages or a touch of Old Bay seasoning. The "Everything" version, featuring everything bagel seasoning, has become particularly popular in urban areas with diverse culinary influences, adding sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt for an extra burst of flavor.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Although similar to sausage rolls or traditional pigs in a blanket, the "Everything" version stands out due to its seasoning and choice of dough. Standard pigs in a blanket typically use plain crescent dough or biscuit dough with little to no seasoning. In contrast, this recipe incorporates everything bagel seasoning, creating a layered flavor profile that is savory, nutty, and slightly garlicky, making it more complex and modern than classic versions.

Where Its Typically Served

Everything Pigs in a Blanket are most commonly served at parties, game-day gatherings, and casual get-togethers. They are an ideal finger food, easy to prepare in bulk and serve hot from an air fryer or oven. Many restaurants and pubs have also adopted them as a popular appetizer, often accompanied by a selection of dips like honey mustard, spicy ketchup, or cheese sauce.

Interesting Facts

  • The Everything seasoning trend started with bagels but quickly expanded to snacks, breads, and even roasted vegetables due to its universal appeal.
  • Pigs in a Blanket have appeared in American cookbooks since the early 1900s, though the modern crescent roll version became popular in the 1960s.
  • Despite their small size, they are surprisingly versatile: mini versions are popular for appetizers, while larger sausages wrapped in puff pastry are served as main dishes in European cuisines.
  • Air fryers have revolutionized the preparation of this dish, reducing cook time to under six minutes while maintaining a golden, crispy exterior.
  • They are often customized for holidays and events, with variations in dough types, sausage flavors, and toppings, reflecting both creativity and regional tastes.
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FAQ about Everything Pigs in a Blanket Recipe

Leftover pigs in a blanket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer or oven to crisp them up again.

Yes, you can prepare pigs in a blanket ahead of time. Once assembled, cover them with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, air fry as directed, but add an extra minute or two if they are cold from the fridge.

Yes, you can substitute the crescent roll dough with other types of dough, such as puff pastry or biscuit dough. However, keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary slightly.

If you can't find Lil' Smokies, you can use any small cocktail sausages or even regular sausages cut into bite-sized pieces. The flavor will still be great, but the size may alter the cooking time slightly.

To make a larger batch, simply double or triple the recipe ingredients. If you are using an air fryer, you may need to cook the pigs in a blanket in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket, which can prevent them from cooking evenly.

Yes, you can bake the pigs in a blanket in a conventional oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the sausages are heated through.

Yes, you can use vegetarian sausage or plant-based hot dogs as a substitute for the Lil' Smokies to make a vegetarian version of pigs in a blanket. Just ensure that the cooking time is adjusted based on the type of plant-based sausage you use.

To ensure the dough gets crispy, make sure to preheat the air fryer and avoid overcrowding the basket. Additionally, brushing the dough with a little butter or oil before cooking can help achieve a golden, crispy finish.

If you want to try different flavors, you can experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Get creative based on your preferences!