Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the aroma of roasted turkey, pumpkin pie, and all those cozy, comforting dishes we love. But let me tell you, there’s something extra special about bringing a twist to the table with *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket*. These delightful little bites are not just your average appetizer; they’re a festive spin on the classic that’ll have your guests reaching for more! Imagine flaky crescent rolls enveloping juicy mini hot dogs and melted cheddar cheese, all topped off with a sprinkle of parsley for that holiday touch. Trust me, they’re sure to be a hit, and they’re oh-so-easy to whip up! So, let’s dive into this recipe and make your Thanksgiving gathering even more memorable!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket*. Don’t worry; it’s a simple lineup that packs a lot of flavor!
- 1 package of mini hot dogs (about 24) – These bite-sized sausages are the star of the show! They’re juicy, flavorful, and just the right size for wrapping up in dough.
- 1 package of crescent roll dough – This is what gives our pigs in a blanket that flaky, buttery goodness. It rolls out easily and bakes up perfectly!
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – A sprinkle of this melty cheese adds an irresistible creaminess and flavor. You can even mix it up with your favorite cheese if you want!
- 1 tablespoon of dried parsley – Just a pinch of this herb not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness. Plus, it makes them look festive!
- 1 egg (for egg wash) – Beaten and brushed on top, this egg wash helps give your pigs that beautiful golden brown finish. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Pigs in a Blanket
Let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s as easy as pie—well, Thanksgiving pie, that is! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a tray of delicious *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket* ready in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your pigs in a blanket bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown. While the oven is heating up, you can get everything else ready!
Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Now, grab your package of crescent roll dough and gently unroll it on a clean surface. Make sure to separate the dough into those delightful triangles. You’ll want to keep them all intact, so be gentle! Each triangle will be the cozy blanket for our little hot dogs.
Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket
Here comes the fun part! Take a mini hot dog and place it at the wide end of each triangle. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese right on top of the hot dog—don’t be shy, it’s the cheesy goodness that makes them irresistible! Next, roll the dough around the hot dog and cheese tightly, starting from the wide end and rolling toward the point. Make sure it’s snug, but not too tight—you want them to bake up fluffy!
Baking Process
Once all your pigs are rolled up, it’s time to place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze! Now, take that beaten egg and brush it over the top of each pig in a blanket. This egg wash is your secret weapon for achieving that beautiful, shiny finish!
Baking Time
Now, slide the baking sheet into the oven and let them bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook! You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and puffed up. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly, and your guests will be eagerly waiting to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for those last-minute holiday gatherings!
- Festive Appeal: These *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket* bring a fun and festive touch to your appetizer spread, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy mini hot dogs, gooey cheddar cheese, and flaky crescent dough creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add different seasonings to match your taste. The possibilities are endless!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these ahead of time and freeze them, making your Thanksgiving prep even easier!
- Perfect for Dipping: Serve them with your favorite sauces—think mustard, ketchup, or even a spicy aioli—for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Success
Before you dive into making these *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket*, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time!
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try mozzarella for a stretchy, melty surprise, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You could even use a blend of cheeses for an extra flavor punch!
- Make-Ahead Magic: If you’re planning a big Thanksgiving feast, you can prepare these little delights ahead of time. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them before baking. When it’s time to serve, pop them straight from the freezer into the oven—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!
- Keep an Eye on Them: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pigs as they bake. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Serving Suggestions: Get creative with your dipping sauces! Along with the classic mustard and ketchup, try a honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a cheesy dip. Your guests will love the variety!
- Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pile on the cheese, remember that you want to keep the rolls nice and tight. A little cheese goes a long way, and too much filling can make rolling tricky!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or even some festive spices like paprika or garlic powder on top before baking can elevate the visual appeal and add an extra flavor dimension!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be the star of your Thanksgiving gathering, impressing everyone with your deliciously festive *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket*! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your Thanksgiving gathering, if there are any of those delightful *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket* left over (which is a big if, trust me!), you’ll want to store them properly to keep that flaky goodness intact.
First, let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once they’re nice and cool, transfer them to an airtight container. I recommend layering them with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, just to prevent any sticking. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days!
If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze these tasty bites! Just place the assembled, unbaked pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for about a month in the freezer—perfect for those unexpected snack cravings!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them straight from the fridge or freezer. If refrigerated, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. If they’re frozen, bake them at the same temperature for about 15-20 minutes, but keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t over-brown. Ovens can be sneaky like that!
And there you have it—simple storage and reheating tips to ensure your *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket* stay delicious long after the feast is over! Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket*. While they’re definitely a treat to enjoy during the holiday season, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in!
- Serving Size: 1 pig in a blanket
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 3g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and how you prepare them. So while you savor these tasty bites, you can feel a little better knowing they’re not too heavy! Enjoy this festive treat in moderation and relish every cheesy, savory bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some common queries about these *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket* to make your cooking experience even smoother!
Can I use different types of hot dogs?
Absolutely! While mini hot dogs are traditional, you can use turkey dogs, beef franks, or even veggie dogs for a twist. Just make sure they’re small enough to fit snugly in the crescent rolls!
What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
If you can’t find crescent roll dough, puff pastry works great as an alternative! Just roll it out and cut it into triangles, just like you would with the crescent dough. The result will be just as flaky and delicious!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the freezer!
What dipping sauces work best?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Classic mustard and ketchup are always a hit, but you can also serve them with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a tangy honey mustard. I love to set up a little dipping station for guests to choose their favorites!
How do I know when they’re done baking?
You’ll want to look for a beautiful golden brown color on the tops of your pigs in a blanket. If they’re puffed up and golden, they’re ready to come out! The smell will also be a dead giveaway—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Can I add veggies to the filling?
Sure thing! Chopped jalapeños, diced bell peppers, or even some sautéed onions can add a fun twist! Just be careful not to overstuff them, as you want to keep the rolling process smooth.
Are these gluten-free?
To make these gluten-free, look for a gluten-free crescent roll dough or pastry. There are some great options available now that taste delicious! Just be sure to check the packaging to ensure it meets your needs.
Now you’re all set to make the best *thanksgiving pigs in a blanket*! If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help you make this holiday feast a success!
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Thanksgiving Pigs in a Blanket: 5 Easy & Delicious Steps
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive twist on classic pigs in a blanket perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 package of mini hot dogs (about 24)
- 1 package of crescent roll dough
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon of dried parsley
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a mini hot dog at the wide end of each triangle.
- Add a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each hot dog.
- Roll the dough around the hot dog and cheese tightly.
- Place the rolled pigs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Beat the egg and brush it over each pig in a blanket.
- Sprinkle dried parsley on top for garnish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Try using different types of cheese for variety.
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pig in a blanket
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: thanksgiving pigs in a blanket, pigs in a blanket, thanksgiving appetizer
