If you’re anything like me and crave those nostalgic party snacks that everyone loves, you’ve got to try this bold and super fun twist on a classic: the Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe. Imagine all the best parts of a cheeseburger—melty cheese, tangy pickles, juicy sausages—wrapped snugly in golden, buttery dough. It’s basically a handheld flavor party that my family and friends go crazy for whenever I bring these to gatherings. Stick around because I’m going to walk you through every step and share some tips that help these little bites turn out perfectly every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Snack: Combines cheeseburgers and pigs in a blanket into one irresistible bite.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute party prep.
- Flavor Explosion: Cheesy, tangy, and savory flavors wrapped in soft, flaky crescent dough.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike keep asking me to make these again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together to create that iconic cheeseburger flavor inside a cozy blanket of dough. Plus, they’re easy to find at any grocery store. I like to pick good-quality cocktail sausages to keep things juicy and flavorful.
- Crescent rolls: The buttery, flaky dough wraps everything up and browns beautifully in the oven.
- American cheese: Classic melty cheese that gives you that authentic cheeseburger vibe.
- Hamburger dill pickle chips: Adds a tangy crunch that balances the richness perfectly.
- Cocktail sausages: These are your stand-in for burger patties, and I prefer ones that aren’t too salty.
- Egg: For an egg wash that gives your crescents a gorgeous golden sheen.
- Water: Mixed with the egg to thin it out just right for brushing.
- Sesame seeds: A subtle nod to the classic burger bun sesame, plus they add fantastic texture.
Variations
I love customizing this Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe to fit different tastes and dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with the fillings or toppings to make it truly your own—it’s so forgiving and adaptable.
- Cheese swap: I’ve tried sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a little extra zing, and they both add a lovely twist.
- Meat alternative: Turkey or chicken sausage works great if you want a lighter option, just make sure they’re nicely flavored.
- Extra toppings: Adding a tiny dab of mustard or ketchup on the sausage before rolling can give a true diner-style cheeseburger punch.
- Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausages and vegan cheese for a crowd-pleasing meat-free version.
How to Make Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Step 1: Prep for Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. It might sound basic, but this prep is key to a non-stick surface and easy cleanup. Meanwhile, pat those cocktail sausages dry with a paper towel — removing excess moisture helps the dough stay crisp and flaky instead of soggy. Similarly, lay out the pickle chips on a paper towel to drain extra juice; that tangy moisture is delicious but can wreak havoc on the dough if left unchecked.
Step 2: Cutting and Layering Magic
Unroll your crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles along the perforations. Then, cut each triangle into three smaller ones lengthwise—think of slicing it into little wedges perfect to wrap up those bite-size sausages. Next, cut each slice of American cheese into 9 neat squares, and slice your pickle chips into thin ¼-inch pieces. These small sizes help balance the flavors in every bite and make rolling way easier.
Step 3: Building Your Cheeseburger Bites
On the wide end of each small dough triangle, place a cheese square, then top it with a pickle slice, and finally add a cocktail sausage. Now, roll it up tightly to enclose all those tasty layers inside the dough. Trust me, don’t rush this part! A snug wrap keeps everything nice and cozy, so the cheese melts beautifully without oozing out before baking.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Sesame Seeds
Arrange your pigs in a blanket on the baking sheet, leaving breathing space between each one. Whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash, then brush it generously over the dough. This step is what gives you that irresistible golden glow. Sprinkle on sesame seeds like a pro burger chef—it’s the little details that make these extra special.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Bake your puppies for 14 to 17 minutes or until the dough is a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end—every oven bakes a bit differently, and you want perfect flaky dough without any burnt edges. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces. I always have ketchup and mustard on hand, but feel free to get creative with spicy mayo or even a cheesy dip.
Pro Tips for Making Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
- Dry Ingredients Thoroughly: Always pat sausages and pickles dry to keep dough crisp and prevent sogginess.
- Cut Dough Precisely: Using a pizza cutter helps get neat, even triangles that roll perfectly.
- Don’t Overfill: A small piece of cheese and one pickle slice keep these bites balanced and easy to handle.
- Watch the Oven: Ovens vary, so check early to avoid overbaking—the dough should be golden, not dark brown.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
Garnishes
I often sprinkle a little extra sesame seeds after baking for that fresh-toasted look, and sometimes add a tiny drizzle of ketchup or mustard on the side for dipping. Freshly chopped chives or parsley also bring a bit of brightness if you’re serving the pigs in a blanket at a party or casual get-together.
Side Dishes
I love pairing these with classic sides like crispy french fries or a simple green salad to balance all that richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them alongside some homemade baked beans or even a tangy coleslaw—both offer a great contrast to these cheesy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, I arrange these Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe around a small bowl of “burger sauce” dip (mix mayo, ketchup, and a bit of pickle juice). You can also stick a mini flag toothpick in each for a cute touch. These presentation tricks always spark conversation and make guests feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. They hold up wonderfully, which means you can enjoy your cheeseburger fix the next day without remaking the whole batch.
Freezing
Freezing these pigs in a blanket with pickles isn’t ideal because the pickles get mushy when thawed. If you want to freeze some, try leaving the pickles out. But honestly, they come together so fast it’s worth making fresh.
Reheating
I find reheating in a 350°F oven or air fryer keeps them crispy and warm without turning the dough soggy like the microwave can. Just 5-7 minutes is usually perfect to revive that fresh-baked goodness.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While American cheese melts beautifully and gives that classic flavor, feel free to swap in cheddar, pepper jack, or even mozzarella depending on your preference. Just cut the cheese into small squares so it melts evenly inside the dough.
-
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket by using plant-based sausages and your choice of cheese or cheese alternatives. Just prepare and roll them the same way for a delicious meat-free snack.
-
Why do I need to pat the sausages and pickles dry?
Excess moisture from the sausages and pickles can make the dough soggy and prevent it from crisping up properly. Drying them with a paper towel helps maintain the flaky, golden texture that makes these pigs in a blanket so addictive.
-
Can I prepare these in advance?
I don’t recommend assembling these too far ahead because the pickles release moisture that can make the dough soggy. However, you can prepare the ingredients separately in advance and assemble right before baking.
-
What dipping sauces go best with Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket?
Classic ketchup and yellow mustard are always hits, but I’ve also enjoyed these with spicy mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, or even a cheesy ranch dip. Pick whatever suits your mood and enjoy the dipping fun!
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe has become a go-to for me whenever I want something easy, tasty, and totally crowd-pleasing. I used to struggle finding simple appetizers that everyone would get excited about, but this one has that perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh flavor that makes moments just a bit more special. The next time you want to impress friends or treat your family to a comforting snack, give this recipe a try—you’ll thank me later.
Print
Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheeseburger Pigs in a Blanket are a delicious twist on the classic appetizer, featuring cocktail sausages wrapped in crescent roll dough with American cheese and dill pickle slices, then baked until golden and topped with sesame seeds. Perfect as a snack or party appetizer, these flavorful bites combine the tastes of a cheeseburger into a fun, handheld treat.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 (8 ounce) tube of crescent rolls (8 count)
Filling
- 3 slices American cheese
- 6–8 Hamburger dill pickle chips
- 24 cocktail sausages (12 ounce packet)
Topping
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Ingredients: Pat the cocktail sausages dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Drain the pickle chips on a paper towel to prevent sogginess in the dough.
- Cut Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles along the perforations. Then cut each triangle lengthwise into three smaller triangles using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, creating a total of 24 small dough triangles.
- Cut Cheese: Cut each slice of American cheese into 9 small squares to match the dough pieces.
- Slice Pickles: Cut each pickle chip into 1/4 inch slices to layer on top of the cheese.
- Assemble Pigs in a Blanket: On the wide end of each small dough triangle, place one piece of cheese, add a slice of pickle on top, then top with a cocktail sausage. Roll the dough around the sausage and fillings to wrap completely.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least one inch apart to allow for even baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl to make an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the egg wash over each dough-wrapped sausage to ensure a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Sprinkle Sesame Seeds: Evenly sprinkle the sesame seeds over the egg-washed dough for added flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 14-17 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the pigs in a blanket warm with your favorite dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a 350-degree oven or air fryer until heated through for best results.
- Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- Do not prepare the pigs in a blanket far in advance as the pickles can cause the dough to become soggy over time.
- Freezing these pigs in a blanket is not recommended because the pickles will become mushy when thawed. If freezing is necessary, omit the pickles before freezing and add fresh pickles after reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg