Pigs in a blanket are a fun and easy appetizer made of mini hot dogs or sausages wrapped in pastry dough and baked until golden brown. Using frozen pigs in a blanket can save time since you don’t have to make the dough and roll up each little sausage yourself. However, frozen pigs in a blanket do require a slightly different cooking method than homemade. Here’s a breakdown of how long to cook frozen pigs in a blanket in the oven for perfectly crispy, melty results.
Oven Temperature
The oven temperature you use to cook frozen pigs in a blanket will impact the total cooking time. Most frozen pigs in a blanket packages recommend baking at 350°F. This moderate temperature allows the pastry to turn golden brown while the sausage cooks through. Baking at a hotter temperature like 400°F may speed up cook time slightly but increases the risk of burning the outside before the center has finished cooking.
A lower oven temperature of 325°F can work but will extend the cook time. Keeping the oven temperature around 350°F is ideal for achieving perfect pigs in a blanket when working with frozen appetizers.
Package Directions
Always start by checking the package instructions when baking frozen convenience foods. Frozen pigs in a blanket come pre-portioned and the manufacturer takes into account the dough thickness, sausage size, and other factors when developing the recommended cook time. While most frozen pigs in a blanket need 14-18 minutes in the oven, cooking time can vary between brands based on the specific recipe.
For example, Bake-It-Better Cocktail Pigs in a Blanket require 14-16 minutes at 350°F. But Trader Joe’s Mini Chicken Sausage in Batter call for 18-22 minutes in a 350 degree oven. Referencing the package directions can prevent over or undercooking the frozen pigs in a blanket.
Common Cook Times for Frozen Pigs in a Blanket
| Brand | Cook Time at 350°F |
| Bake-It-Better Cocktail Pigs in a Blanket | 14-16 minutes |
| Trader Joe’s Mini Chicken Sausage in Batter | 18-22 minutes |
| Hanover Mini Pigs in a Blanket | 14-18 minutes |
| Ore-Ida Pigs in a Blanket | 17-20 minutes |
Size of Pigs in a Blanket
Along with oven temperature and package instructions, the size of the frozen pigs in a blanket will determine baking time. Mini cocktail-sized pigs in a blanket generally take 14-18 minutes since they have less dough and filling to heat through. Larger pigs in a blanket can take 17-22 minutes since more time is needed for the centers to warm while the dough turns crispy.
Pigs in a blanket appetizers closer to a pop-tart size may even call for 25-30 minutes in the oven. Just be sure to check for doneness and not solely rely on cook time, as larger or thicker frozen pigs in a blanket may need a few extra minutes. The filling should reach an internal temperature of 160°F on a meat thermometer for food safety.
Baking Sheet Type
The type of baking sheet used can also impact frozen pigs in a blanket cook times. Dark metal baking sheets or nonstick pans will heat up faster in the oven and deliver more browning to the underside. If using an insulated cookie sheet or glass baking dish, you may need to add 2-3 extra minutes to the cook time to achieve the same level of crisping.
A wire cooling rack placed on a baking sheet works well too, allowing air circulation under the pigs in a blanket for even heating. Closely monitor pigs in a blanket when using glass, silicone, ceramic, or other slower-heating pans and adjust cook time as needed.
Single Layer is Best
To ensure even cooking, frozen pigs in a blanket should always be baked in a single layer with space between each appetizer. Overcrowding the pan causes uneven heating and prevents the exteriors from crisping properly. If needed, use multiple pans and bake in batches for perfect results. Resist the urge to stack frozen pigs in a blanket on top of each other during baking.
Preheating is a Must
Allowing the oven to fully preheat before placing frozen pigs in a blanket inside is another way to promote even cooking. Putting frozen appetizers into a cold oven causes the temperature to drop significantly. It takes longer for the oven to recover and actually reach the set temp, extending bake time. So be sure to preheat the oven to 350°F before baking for the recommended 14-22 minutes.
Frozen vs. Thawed
Frozen pigs in a blanket and thawed pigs in a blanket require different cooking methods. Baking straight from frozen allows the dough to heat through slowly for maximum crisping on the outside. Thawed or refrigerated pigs in a blanket will start warm on the inside and may overcook or get soggy with the same oven timing.
For best results, bake frozen pigs in a blanket without thawing first. And avoid freezing homemade pigs in a blanket before cooking, as this can make the dough tough. Follow package instructions for store-bought frozen pigs in a blanket pulled straight from the freezer for baking.
Check for Doneness
The best way to test pigs in a blanket for doneness when baking from frozen is to use a digital meat thermometer. Insert the probe end into the middle of one sausage to check its internal temperature. The filling should reach 160°F once fully cooked through. If removing pigs in a blanket from the oven early, the temperature will continue rising another 5-10 degrees during the carryover cooking process.
Visually inspect to ensure the dough is golden brown on all sides without any pale or doughy spots. The puff pastry or biscuit dough should look fully baked and crisp. Cook any underdone pigs in a blanket for 2-3 extra minutes until properly heated and browned.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Frozen Pigs in a Blanket
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Bake in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Use recommended oven temp and cook time per package.
- Check temperature of sausages with a meat thermometer.
- Adjust time if needed based on size and pan type.
- Bake until sausage reaches 160°F and dough is crisp.
Cooking Multiple Batches
When cooking a large quantity of frozen pigs in a blanket, you’ll likely need to bake multiple sheets one after another. This can affect cook time. The first batch may take a little longer since the oven is still heating up. Subsequent batches may cook faster since the oven is already hot.
To ensure even baking, rotate the pans between oven racks halfway through cooking. Watch each batch closely and adjust time as needed. You many need to reduce time for later batches by 1-2 minutes. Let the pans briefly cool between batches to prevent overheating the oven.
Reheating Leftovers
Properly stored leftover baked pigs in a blanket can be reheated in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, place pigs in a blanket on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 4-6 minutes until hot. Microwaving is quicker, requiring just 30-60 seconds per batch. But this can make the dough soggy.
For best results, reheat leftover frozen pigs in a blanket in the oven. Cook just until heated through, testing temperature with a thermometer if needed. Avoid reheating more than once for food safety.
Storing Cooked Pigs in a Blanket
After baking, frozen pigs in a blanket are best served right away for maximum crispness. But any leftovers can be stored for later. Let pigs in a blanket cool completely first, then place in a sealed container or resealable plastic bag.
Properly stored pigs in a blanket will last 3-4 days refrigerated. For longer freezer storage, wrap pigs in a blanket in foil or plastic wrap first to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for 2-3 months.
Reheat leftovers only once for food safety. Discard any pigs in a blanket that have been refrigerated or frozen longer than the recommended storage times.
Serving Suggestions
Baked pigs in a blanket make a handy appetizer for parties and celebrations. Serve them right out of the oven with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, bbq sauce, ranch, or honey mustard. For easier handling, provide cocktail picks or toothpicks.
They also pair well with beers, ciders, or sparkling wines. Or add baked pigs in a blanket to your breakfast menu alongside eggs, hash browns, and bacon for a fun twist. Kids love helping roll up and eat homemade pigs in a blanket too.
Get creative with different sausage flavors like chicken apple, spicy cheddar, or turkey. Try substituting the dough with pizza crust, biscuits, croissants or even waffles. The possibilities are endless for customizing this flexible appetizer.
Tips for Baking Success
Here are some top tips to ensure perfect pigs in a blanket using frozen appetizers:
- Read package instructions carefully and follow oven temp and cook times.
- Make sure oven is fully preheated before baking.
- Use a baking sheet that promotes even browning.
- Bake in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Rotate pans between top and bottom racks halfway through.
- Always cook frozen pigs in a blanket without thawing first.
- Check temperature using a meat thermometer inserted in sausages.
- Add 2-3 extra minutes if using glass or silicone pans.
- Let cool before storing and reheat only once.
Common Baking Problems
While pigs in a blanket are fairly straightforward to cook, there are a few common problems that can occur:
Undercooked Inside
If pigs in a blanket are baked too quickly, the outside can get done before the sausage filling reaches a safe internal temperature. Use an instant read thermometer to check the middle of the sausages. They should reach 160°F once fully cooked.
Doughy Texture
Insufficient baking time can also lead to dough that still seems raw or biscuit dough that is gummy in texture. Always bake until the dough is nicely browned and feels crisp. Glass baking dishes may require extra time to fully bake the dough.
Burnt Bottoms
Dark metal baking pans can lead to excessive browning or burnt bottoms if the oven temperature is too high or they are cooked too long. Use a lighter pan, reduce temperature to 325°F, or check a minute or two early.
Soggy Pastry
Allowing pigs in a blanket to sit after baking can make the pastry soggy. Serve immediately for the crispiest texture. Storing leftovers properly and reheating just until warm helps retain crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you thaw frozen pigs in a blanket before baking?
No, it’s best to bake frozen pigs in a blanket without thawing first. Thawing beforehand can make the dough soggy. Frozen appetizers go straight from freezer to oven for ideal crispness.
How long do Trader Joe’s pigs in a blanket take to cook?
Trader Joe’s mini chicken sausage in batter takes 18-22 minutes to bake at 350°F oven according to package instructions. Always follow recommended cook times for the specific brand you are using.
What temperature are pigs in a blanket done?
Use an instant read thermometer to test pigs in a blanket doneness. Insert into sausage center and cook until reaching 160°F for food safety. The dough should also be lightly browned all over.
Can you reheat cooked frozen pigs in a blanket?
Yes, properly stored leftover baked pigs in a blanket can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 4-6 minutes until hot. Microwaving is quicker but can make the dough soggy. Only reheat once for safety.
How long do homemade pigs in a blanket bake?
Homemade pigs in a blanket bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes depending on size. Smaller appetizer-sized portions take less time. Always check internal sausage temperature for doneness.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen convenience foods like pigs in a blanket may seem tricky, but following a few simple guidelines will ensure hot, crispy results. Allow the oven to fully preheat, use recommended temperature and cook times per packaging, and bake in a single layer. Check sausage filling temperature with a thermometer to confirm doneness. Adjust time up or down if needed based on pan type and size. With the proper techniques, frozen pigs in a blanket can be baked to appetizing perfection in around 15-20 minutes.