Pigs in a Blanket are a popular and delicious appetizer that is loved by both kids and adults. Traditionally, this dish is made by wrapping sausages in pastry dough and baking them in the oven. However, with the rise in popularity of air fryers, you can now enjoy this tasty treat without the need for a traditional oven. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and easy recipe on how to cook pigs in a blanket in an air fryer.
Gather the Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
– Mini sausages or cocktail wieners
– Crescent roll dough (store-bought or homemade)
– Your favorite dipping sauce (such as mustard or ketchup)
Preheat the Air Fryer
The first step in cooking pigs in a blanket in an air fryer is to preheat the device. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for a few minutes. Preheating the air fryer ensures that your pigs in a blanket will cook evenly and turn out crispy.
Prepare the Dough
While the air fryer is preheating, it’s time to prepare the dough. If you’re using store-bought crescent roll dough, simply unroll it and separate it into triangles. If you prefer homemade dough, follow your favorite recipe and roll it out into a thin layer.
Wrap the Sausages
Now comes the fun part! Take one mini sausage or cocktail wiener and place it at the wider end of a dough triangle. Roll the dough tightly around the sausage, making sure to seal the edges. Repeat this process with the remaining sausages and dough.
Cook in the Air Fryer
Once all the pigs in a blanket are wrapped, it’s time to cook them in the air fryer. Place the wrapped sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure there is enough space between them for the air to circulate. If needed, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Set the Cooking Time
The cooking time for pigs in a blanket in an air fryer may vary depending on the size of your sausages and the desired level of crispiness. As a general guideline, set the cooking time to 8-10 minutes. It is important to periodically check on the pigs in a blanket and flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Enjoy the Deliciousness
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pigs in a blanket from the air fryer. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Pigs in a blanket made in an air fryer are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation creates a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the sausages tender and juicy on the inside. The convenience of the air fryer makes this recipe perfect for parties, game nights, or even a quick snack.
Variations and Tips
While the classic pigs in a blanket recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are endless variations you can try to customize this dish to your liking. Here are some ideas to get you started:
– Cheese-Stuffed Pigs in a Blanket: Place a small slice of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, next to the sausage before wrapping it with the dough. This adds a gooey and savory twist to the traditional recipe.
– Veggie Pigs in a Blanket: If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the sausages with grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. The dough will still create a delicious and crispy exterior, while the vegetables offer a lighter filling.
– Mini Pretzel Pigs in a Blanket: Instead of using crescent roll dough, wrap the sausages in pretzel dough for a unique and slightly salty flavor. Brush the pretzel-wrapped sausages with an egg wash and sprinkle coarse salt on top before air frying.
Regardless of the variation you choose, here are a few tips to ensure that your pigs in a blanket turn out perfectly every time:
– Use mini sausages or cocktail wieners that are fully cooked and pre-cooked. This eliminates the need to worry about undercooked meat.
– Don’t be afraid to experiment with different dipping sauces. Besides mustard and ketchup, try spicy sriracha, tangy barbecue sauce, or even a homemade aioli.
– If you’re making pigs in a blanket for a larger gathering, keep them warm in a low-temperature oven while you cook subsequent batches. This way, everyone can enjoy them hot and fresh.
In Conclusion
Cooking pigs in a blanket in an air fryer is a simple and convenient way to enjoy this classic appetizer. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a midnight snack, give this delicious and easy recipe a try.