Pigs In Blankets: A Christmas Party Treat

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Golden, crispy, and irresistibly savory, Pigs in Blankets are a holiday must-have that never go out of style. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just craving something cozy and comforting, these bacon-wrapped sausages are the perfect bite-sized indulgence that bring everyone to the table. Each piece is a juicy cocktail sausage snuggled in smoky bacon, baked until the fat renders and turns it all into a sweet, salty, and crispy delight.

This beloved British classic isn’t just for Christmas—they make fantastic appetizers for New Year’s Eve, family get-togethers, or cozy weekends at home. You can prep them ahead, pop them in the oven when guests arrive, and watch them disappear before you even finish pouring the drinks.

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Why You’ll Love This Pigs In Blankets Recipe

• Only two main ingredients: bacon and sausages. So simple, yet so satisfying.
• Perfect for party platters, holiday buffets, or weeknight treats.
• They’re endlessly customizable—add herbs, glaze with maple syrup, or spice it up with mustard.
• Kid-approved and adult-adored.
• Ready in under 30 minutes.

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What Kind of Sausages and Bacon Should I Use?

For the sausages, go with quality cocktail sausages—either pork or chicken depending on your preference. If you’re in the U.S., look for little smokies. In the UK, Cumberland or Lincolnshire mini sausages are perfect.

As for bacon, use streaky bacon for the best wrapping and crispiness. Thin-cut bacon crisps up beautifully and doesn’t overpower the sausage with too much meat. If you’re feeling fancy, try pancetta or smoked streaky bacon for an extra punch of flavor.

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Ingredients for the Pigs In Blankets

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a small but crucial role in building that irresistible, smoky-sweet flavor. You really only need two main things, but it’s how you use them that makes the difference.

• Cocktail Sausages: These are the core of the dish—juicy, flavorful, and the perfect bite-size. Choose high-quality sausages for the best taste and texture.
• Streaky Bacon: The hero of the crisp. Thin, fatty bacon wraps snugly around each sausage and crisps up as it bakes, locking in all that flavor.
• Optional Add-ons: Maple syrup for glaze, fresh rosemary or thyme for a herby note, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a touch of chili flakes for heat.

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How To Make the Pigs In Blankets

Step 1: Prep Your Tray

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Wrap the Sausages

Cut each bacon slice in half. Wrap one half around each sausage, seam-side down to help it stay secure during baking.

Step 3: Add Extra Flavor (Optional)

Drizzle with maple syrup or scatter over herbs, sesame seeds, or chili flakes if desired. These small touches add great flavor and a festive twist.

Step 4: Bake Until Crisp

Place the wrapped sausages on the tray and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and golden. Rotate halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Let them rest for 5 minutes out of the oven before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, straight off the tray!

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How to Serve and Store These Pigs In Blankets

These delicious bites are ideal for sharing, and the recipe easily feeds 6 to 8 people as an appetizer or side dish. Serve them fresh from the oven on a platter with toothpicks or small forks for easy grabbing.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in a hot oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. You can also freeze them after baking; just thaw overnight and reheat as above.

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What to Serve With Pigs In Blankets?

H3: Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for these salty, savory bites.

H3: Cranberry Sauce

The tartness of cranberry sauce beautifully cuts through the richness of the bacon.

H3: Brussels Sprouts

Roasted or pan-fried, they add a crunchy, earthy contrast.

H3: Mustard Dips

Spicy brown mustard or honey mustard adds zing and pairs beautifully.

H3: Stuffing Balls

A classic holiday pairing that completes the traditional flavor profile.

H3: Glazed Carrots

Their sweetness adds balance and festive color to the plate.

H3: Cheese Board

Add them to a festive charcuterie or cheese board for a salty, meaty bite.

H3: Mulled Wine or Apple Cider

The ultimate cozy drink to sip between bites.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make pigs in blankets ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them the night before, store them covered in the fridge, and then bake when ready. This makes them ideal for stress-free entertaining.

Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, but keep in mind that turkey bacon is leaner and doesn’t crisp the same way. It’s a healthier option, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Definitely! Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness. It’s a great way to get extra crispy results without heating up the oven.

Are they gluten-free?
That depends on your sausage choice. Many cocktail sausages contain breadcrumbs, so look for certified gluten-free sausages to be sure.

Can I freeze pigs in blankets?
Yes! Freeze them after baking or even before. Just make sure they’re wrapped tightly. When ready, bake from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or holiday board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a glaze or herbs? Maybe you spiced it up with chili?

I love hearing how others add their own twist to these classics. Got questions? Drop them below and let’s make holiday cooking easy and fun for everyone.

Explore more festive bites and easy appetizers on my Pinterest: Life With Livia Pinterest

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Conclusion

Pigs in Blankets are the kind of crowd-pleasing comfort food that never fail to deliver. They’re quick to make, incredibly flavorful, and adaptable to whatever flavors or dips you have on hand. Whether it’s a cozy winter evening or a festive holiday table, this recipe brings people together with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Make them once, and they’ll become a permanent part of your party food rotation.

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