How Long Do I Cook Pigs in Blankets?
Generally, pigs in blankets should be cooked for 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The sausage should be cooked through and the pastry golden brown.
The Allure of Pigs in Blankets: A Culinary Classic
Pigs in blankets – the humble sausage wrapped in bacon or pastry – are a culinary crowd-pleaser. Whether adorning a holiday table, gracing a cocktail party, or providing a comforting snack, their simple yet satisfying combination of salty, savory, and sometimes sweet, flavors makes them universally appealing. Understanding the nuances of cooking them perfectly, however, is crucial to avoiding soggy pastry and undercooked sausage.
Bacon vs. Pastry: Two Roads to Piggy Perfection
The term “pigs in blankets” encompasses two distinct variations. The first, and arguably more common, involves wrapping small sausages in streaky bacon. The second utilizes puff pastry, offering a flakier and potentially more elegant presentation. Cooking times and techniques differ slightly depending on which route you choose. Bacon-wrapped pigs tend to cook more quickly, as the bacon crisps up faster than pastry needs to bake.
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Sausage: The Core Principle
Regardless of whether you opt for bacon or pastry, the core temperature of the sausage is paramount. Undercooked sausage can harbor harmful bacteria, while overcooked sausage becomes dry and unappetizing. A meat thermometer is your best friend in ensuring a safe and delicious outcome. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for pork sausage.
Mastering the Bacon-Wrapped Pig: A Simple Guide
Cooking bacon-wrapped pigs in blankets is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Preparation: Wrap each sausage tightly with a strip of streaky bacon. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Baking: Arrange the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cooking: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sausage is cooked through. The bacon fat will render out and help cook the sausages.
- Rest: Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
Puff Pastry Perfection: Achieving Golden Brown Goodness
Pigs in blankets wrapped in puff pastry require a slightly different approach to achieve that flaky, golden-brown crust.
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Preparation: Cut puff pastry into strips. Wrap each sausage with a strip of pastry, overlapping slightly. You can brush the pastry with egg wash for an extra golden sheen.
- Baking: Arrange the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure there’s space between each one for even browning.
- Cooking: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up, and the sausage is cooked through.
- Rest: Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This helps the pastry retain its crispness.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Several common pitfalls can lead to disappointing pigs in blankets. Avoiding these mistakes will significantly improve your results:
- Undercooked Sausage: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the sausage reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Soggy Pastry: Make sure the oven is hot enough and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Pre-heating the baking sheet can also help.
- Burnt Bacon: Keep a close eye on the bacon-wrapped pigs. If the bacon is browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly.
- Dry Sausage: Don’t overcook the sausages. Once they reach the correct internal temperature, remove them from the oven.
- Uneven Cooking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating are crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of your pigs in blankets.
- Storage: Store cooked pigs in blankets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave for shorter periods. Be mindful that microwaving can make the pastry soggy. Air frying is also a great option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of sausage works best for pigs in blankets?
Cocktail sausages or mini sausages are ideal for pigs in blankets due to their size. Chipolata sausages are a popular choice in the UK, while breakfast sausages are a good option in the US. Choose sausages with a good fat content for added flavor and juiciness.
Can I use pre-made puff pastry?
Absolutely! Pre-made puff pastry is a convenient and time-saving option. Make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using. Using pre-made pastry is a great shortcut.
Can I make pigs in blankets ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pigs in blankets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze pigs in blankets?
Yes, you can freeze both baked and unbaked pigs in blankets. Freeze them individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw them completely before baking (if unbaked) or reheating.
Do I need to use toothpicks to secure the bacon?
Using toothpicks is optional, but recommended, especially if the bacon is thin or prone to unraveling. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving!
Can I add any seasonings to the pigs in blankets?
Yes, you can add seasonings to enhance the flavor. Consider sprinkling the bacon or pastry with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or herbs before baking.
What dipping sauces pair well with pigs in blankets?
Pigs in blankets pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Mustard, ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, and cranberry sauce are all excellent choices.
Can I use other types of pastry besides puff pastry?
While puff pastry is the most common choice, you can experiment with other types of pastry, such as shortcrust pastry or even crescent roll dough. The cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the pastry you choose.
Can I cook pigs in blankets in an air fryer?
Yes, air frying is a great way to cook pigs in blankets quickly and easily. Air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
How do I prevent the bacon from shrinking too much?
To minimize bacon shrinkage, avoid using extremely thin-cut bacon. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the bacon to steam rather than crisp up.
My pastry is browning too quickly. What should I do?
If the pastry is browning too quickly, tent the baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning. You can also lower the oven temperature slightly.
How do I tell if the sausage is cooked through without a thermometer?
While a thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure the sausage is cooked through, you can check by cutting into one of the sausages. If the juices run clear and there is no pink meat inside, the sausage is likely cooked through. However, a thermometer is always the safest bet.