Effortless Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket: Your Ultimate Guide to a Quick, Crispy Classic

Life gets undeniably hectic. Between work, errands, and family commitments, finding time to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like an impossible task. We’ve all been there: you finally get home, only to realize there’s nothing ready for dinner, and the idea of a complex recipe feels overwhelming. This is where the magic of Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket comes to your rescue! This incredibly easy, two-ingredient recipe transforms a beloved childhood classic into a fast, fuss-free meal or snack that’s ready in less than 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep tucked away for those super busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

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The Enduring Appeal of Pigs in a Blanket

There’s something uniquely comforting about Pigs in a Blanket. For many, it’s a dish steeped in nostalgia, bringing back memories of childhood parties, family gatherings, or simple, satisfying meals. It’s a culinary hug that transcends generations, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Personally, I have vivid memories of introducing my husband to two delightful treats he’d somehow missed out on: S’mores (we even have an Air Fryer S’mores version on the blog!) and, of course, these humble Pigs in a Blanket. It’s always a pleasant surprise to share such simple joys, especially when they evoke such positive reactions.

While some families prefer the effort of homemade dough, there’s an undeniable charm and ease to using canned crescent roll dough. That distinctive flaky, buttery crust wrapped around a savory hot dog is a classic combination that’s hard to beat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its sheer simplicity: just two core ingredients – your favorite hot dogs and a can of crescent roll dough. It genuinely doesn’t get much easier to whip up a satisfying snack or meal!

Why the Air Fryer is Perfect for Pigs in a Blanket

If you haven’t yet discovered the magic of your air fryer, this recipe is the perfect introduction. The air fryer excels at creating dishes that are crispy on the outside and wonderfully tender on the inside, all with minimal oil and maximum speed. Traditional oven baking can often result in a less consistent crisp and takes longer to preheat and cook. Deep-frying, while delicious, is messy and requires a lot of oil.

With an air fryer, you get:

• Unbeatable Crispy Texture: The circulating hot air ensures that crescent dough puffs up beautifully and turns golden brown and delightfully crispy, without becoming greasy.
• Lightning-Fast Cooking: From preheating to plate, you’re looking at under 15 minutes, making it ideal for those “dinner in a dash” moments.
• Effortless Cleanup: No splatters or large pans to scrub. Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and easy to wipe clean.
• Energy Efficiency: Air fryers generally use less energy than a full-sized oven, especially for smaller batches.

It’s the ultimate appliance for transforming a simple concept like Pigs in a Blanket into an elevated, perfectly cooked treat every single time.

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

The simplicity of this recipe is truly its greatest strength. You only need two main ingredients, allowing you to focus on quality and personal preference.

• Hot Dogs: The foundation of this classic! The type of hot dog you choose can significantly impact the flavor.
  • All-Beef Hot Dogs: Often preferred for their rich, savory flavor and satisfying snap. Brands like Nathan’s or Ball Park are popular choices.
  • Pork or Mixed Meat Hot Dogs: Offer a classic taste that many grew up with.
  • Chicken or Turkey Hot Dogs: Great for a lighter alternative, often lower in fat.
  • Vegetarian or Vegan Sausages: Absolutely! There are many excellent plant-based hot dog alternatives available that work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure they are standard hot dog size.
  • Cocktail Sausages: For a bite-sized appetizer, opt for mini cocktail sausages and cut your crescent dough triangles into smaller strips.

  Choose whatever variety your family enjoys most, but aim for standard-sized hot dogs for consistent wrapping and cooking.

• Crescent Roll Dough: This is the secret to speed and ease.
  • Canned Crescent Roll Dough: Brands like Pillsbury are readily available and perfectly portioned into triangles, eliminating the need for any complex cutting or rolling. This is what makes the recipe “crazy simple.” Its flaky, buttery texture is ideal for achieving that satisfying contrast with the hot dog.
  • Homemade Dough: If you’re feeling ambitious and prefer a homemade touch, you can certainly make your own Pigs in a Blanket dough. Just be sure to roll it out very thin and cut it into appropriate triangle shapes for wrapping.
  • Puff Pastry: For a slightly different texture and a more “gourmet” feel, you can use puff pastry. Thaw it according to package directions, then cut it into strips or triangles for wrapping.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Pigs in a Blanket in the Air Fryer

Making these crispy delights couldn’t be simpler. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. This allows the air fryer to reach the optimal cooking temperature, ensuring your Pigs in a Blanket start cooking immediately and achieve that coveted crisp exterior. Always refer to your air fryer’s manual for specific preheating instructions.
2. Prepare the Dough: Carefully open the can of crescent roll dough. Unroll it gently onto a clean, dry countertop or a piece of parchment paper. The parchment paper can make cleanup easier and helps prevent sticking.
3. Separate the Triangles: Gently separate each of the crescent dough triangles, laying them out individually on the parchment paper or counter, leaving a little space between each.
4. Wrap the Hot Dogs: Take one hot dog and place it at the wider end of a crescent dough triangle. Starting from the wide end, carefully roll the dough around the hot dog, moving towards the narrow tip.

5. Seal and Repeat: Ensure the dough is wrapped snugly around the hot dog, covering most of its surface. You’ll want to leave both ends of the hot dog slightly exposed, without dough. Repeat this process until all 8 of your hot dogs are wrapped. Place the wrapped Pigs in a Blanket on a parchment-lined tray or plate. If you’re cooking in batches, keep the un-cooked wrapped hot dogs in the fridge to keep the dough firm.
6. Load the Air Fryer: Using a pair of tongs, carefully transfer 4 (or more, depending on your air fryer size) of the wrapped hot dogs to the air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket, as this can impede air circulation and lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. If you have a larger, oven-style air fryer, you might be able to fit all 8 at once.

7. Air Fry to Perfection: Place the air fryer basket back into the unit. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done when the crescent dough is golden brown, visibly puffed up, and the hot dog is heated through. My air fryer tends to run a little hot, and they were perfectly done right around the 5-minute mark.
8. Serve and Repeat: Carefully remove the cooked Pigs in a Blanket from the air fryer using tongs. Transfer them to a serving plate or tray. If you have more wrapped hot dogs, repeat the air frying process with the remaining batches. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Customizations and Variations

While the classic two-ingredient Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket is perfect as is, there are plenty of ways to get creative and customize them to your liking:

Flavorful Dough Enhancements

• Bagel Dog Style: For a savory twist, brush the dough with melted butter or egg wash and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds before or during the last minute or two of cooking. This adds a fantastic texture and aromatic flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan: After wrapping, brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can be added to the dough before wrapping, or brush with a spicy sauce after cooking.

Delicious Fillings and Additions

• Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket: For an irresistible cheesy center, cut a cheese string in half lengthwise or use a thin slice of cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone. Tuck one half or slice next to the hot dog before wrapping it in the dough. Be sure to seal the dough securely around the cheese to prevent any messy leaks during cooking.
• Bacon-Wrapped: For extra indulgence, partially cook thin strips of bacon, then wrap them around the hot dog before encasing it in the crescent dough.
• Jalapeño Popper Style: Add a thin strip of cream cheese and a few slivers of pickled jalapeño alongside the hot dog before wrapping.

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket are versatile enough to be a standalone snack, a fun appetizer, or even a main course with the right accompaniments.

Classic Side Dishes

• Crispy Fries: French fries, sweet potato fries, or tater tots are natural partners, offering a satisfying crunch.
• Fresh Salads: A simple garden salad or a vibrant coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Creamy Salads: Potato salad or macaroni salad are classic picnic-style sides that pair wonderfully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus add a healthy and flavorful element.
• Baked Beans: A hearty and comforting side, especially for a casual meal.
• Macaroni and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food pairing for a truly kid-friendly (and adult-friendly) meal.

Delectable Dipping Sauces for Pigs in a Blanket

While ketchup and mustard are timeless choices, don’t hesitate to experiment with these exciting dipping sauces to elevate your Pigs in a Blanket experience!

• Classic Combos: Ketchup, Yellow Mustard, Dijon Mustard.
• Creamy & Tangy: Mayonnaise, Ranch dressing, Honey Mustard (homemade or store-bought).
• Spicy Kicks: Sriracha Mayo, Hot Sauce, BBQ Sauce.
• Gourmet Touches: Horseradish Dip (mix prepared horseradish with sour cream or mayo), Garlic Sauce (try this recipe for a homemade version), Sweet and Sour Sauce.
• Unique Flavors: Chipotle Mayo, Curry Ketchup, or a quick homemade dipping sauce by mixing sour cream with chives and a hint of garlic powder.

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Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket Recipe Card

Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket

If you have just two simple ingredients, you’re ready to get dinner on the table in less than 15 minutes! This childhood classic is PERFECT in the Air Fryer. Golden, fluffy, and satisfying. An easy dinner idea that was made for busy weeknights!

Course: Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 13 minutes

Servings: 8 Pigs in a Blanket

Calories: 382kcal

Author: Dorothy Bigelow

Ingredients

• 8 hot dogs
• 1 can crescent roll dough (or 1 cup of homemade dough, rolled out thin)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes, or according to your manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Open the can of crescent roll dough and roll it out gently onto a clean counter or piece of parchment paper.
3. Gently separate each triangle, spacing them out on the parchment or counter.
4. Take a hot dog, placing it onto one of the triangles of dough.
5. Use your fingers to carefully wrap the dough around the surface of the hot dog, leaving the ends open and unwrapped.
6. Repeat with the remaining hot dogs until all of the crescent roll dough has been used up.
7. Use a pair of tongs to transfer 4 of the wrapped hot dogs to the basket of the air fryer. If you have a larger, oven-sized model, you can probably fit all 8 Pigs in a Blanket.
8. Cook for 5-8 minutes, or until golden brown, puffy, and warmed throughout.
9. Remove the Pigs in a Blanket from the Air Fryer basket with tongs. Place them on a plate or platter and repeat with the remaining 4 wrapped hot dogs.
10. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce of your choice.

Video

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Notes

• As a best practice, keep your wrapped hot dogs in the fridge in between batches in the air fryer to maintain dough firmness.
• Hot Dogs: Use whatever style of hot dog you prefer, so long as they are not significantly larger than the “typical” hot dog. We like to use regular or all beef, but you can use chicken, or even vegetarian and vegan options.
• Dipping sauces for Pigs in a Blanket:
  • Mayo
  • Mustard
  • Ketchup
  • Sriracha mayo
  • Horseradish mayo
  • BBQ sauce
  • Honey mustard
  • Sweet and sour sauce

Nutrition

Serving: 1 Pig in a Blanket | Calories: 382kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 642mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g

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