Pigs in a Blanket Recipe: A Festive Appetizer
Pigs in a blanket are a classic appetizer, perfect for parties, holidays, or a cozy night in. These savory little bites are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe will guide you through making delicious, perfectly-sized pigs in a blanket, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated mini phyllo cups: These are a convenient shortcut for a perfectly formed blanket.
- 1 pound sausage: Choose your favorite! Breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even chorizo will all work wonderfully. Remove the casings before using.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a delightful cheesy twist.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: This helps the "blankets" stick together.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional): For an extra kick of flavor.
- Cooking spray: To prevent sticking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Sausage:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures perfectly cooked pigs in a blanket.
- Cook the sausage: If using raw sausage, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. If using pre-cooked sausage, you can skip this step. Break it up into small crumbles.
Assemble the Pigs in a Blanket:
- Mix the filling (optional): If using cheese and/or mustard, gently combine it with the cooked sausage.
- Fill the phyllo cups: Spoon a small amount of the sausage mixture into each phyllo cup. Don't overfill; you want a neat, bite-sized package.
- Seal the cups: Lightly brush the tops of the phyllo cups with the beaten egg to seal them securely. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Bake to Perfection:
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the filled phyllo cups on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are golden brown and the sausage is heated through.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let cool slightly: Allow the pigs in a blanket to cool for a few minutes before serving. This prevents burns and allows the filling to set.
- Serve warm: These are delicious served warm as an appetizer or snack.
Tips for the Perfect Pigs in a Blanket:
- Don't overfill the phyllo cups: Overfilling will cause them to burst during baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses: Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend.
- Add some herbs: A sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary adds extra flavor.
- Make them ahead: You can assemble the pigs in a blanket ahead of time and bake them just before serving.
FAQs about Pigs in a Blanket:
Q: Can I use crescent roll dough instead of phyllo cups?
A: Absolutely! Crescent roll dough is a great alternative. Just cut it into small squares, wrap around the sausage, and bake according to the crescent roll package instructions.
Q: How can I store leftover pigs in a blanket?
A: Store leftover pigs in a blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade pigs in a blanket! They're sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Remember to share your culinary creations using #PigsInABlanket and tag your friends!
