Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering, look no further than these Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket! This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic pigs in a blanket, combining the creamy goodness of jalapeno poppers with the convenience of crescent rolls. Whether it’s game day, a family get-together, or just a busy weeknight, these tasty bites come together quickly and are always a crowd-pleaser.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering that wow factor. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have an impressive dish that everyone will love. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces—who doesn’t love a little extra flavor?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up even on your busiest days.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these flavorful bites; they’re great for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble them ahead of time and bake just before serving, making party planning a breeze.
• Delicious flavor combination: The spicy jalapeños paired with creamy cheese and savory sausage create an irresistible taste!
• Perfect for any occasion: From casual gatherings to more formal parties, these poppers fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these mouthwatering Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket! You’ll find everything you need right here:

For the Filling

• 15 jalapeño peppers
• 12 Oz LITL SMOKIES SMOKED SAUSAGE
• 8 Oz cream cheese
• 4 Oz shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 Tbs garlic powder
• 1 Tbs onion powder

For the Wrapping

• 2 Packages crescent rolls
• 4 Oz Butter
• kosher salt

START BY PREHEATING YOUR OVEN TO 375F. IF YOU’RE USING A GF ALTERNATIVE TO CRESCENT ROLLS, DEFAULT TO THE INSTRUCTIONS ON THE PACKAGE.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add more heat: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the cream cheese mixture for an extra kick.
• Cheese overload: Mix different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavors and textures.
• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausages or plant-based sausage alternatives if you’re looking for different dietary options.
• Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like chives or cilantro to the cream cheese mixture for a burst of freshness.

How to Make Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial because we want those poppers to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown!

Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños

Next, chop off the stems from the jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise. Don’t forget to scoop out those seeds with a spoon! This step helps reduce the heat level while creating space for all that delicious filling.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mixing these together creates that creamy filling that makes each bite so delightful. It’s essential to ensure everything is well blended for consistent flavor.

Step 4: Stuff the Jalapeños

Now it’s time for some fun! Using a spoon, scoop a dollop of your cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half and spread it evenly. Then place a cocktail sausage on top of each stuffed jalapeño. The creamy mixture acts as glue here—keeping everything together beautifully!

Step 5: Wrap Them Up

Unwrap your crescent dough and slice each triangle in half. Roll each stuffed jalapeño in this small piece of dough as if you were wrapping them in cozy blankets. Place all your wrapped poppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this makes cleanup easy!

Step 6: Add Some Flavor

Brush each wrapped popper with melted butter and sprinkle with kosher salt. This adds extra flavor and ensures they come out crispy and golden—a must for any appetizer!

Step 7: Bake Away

Finally, bake those beauties in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until they’re golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make it hard to wait until they cool down enough to enjoy!

Now you have delicious Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket ready to be devoured! Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

These delightful bites are sure to impress your guests, and with a few handy tips, you can make them even better!

• Choose the right jalapeños: Opt for firm, fresh jalapeños that are not too large. Smaller peppers provide a perfect bite-sized pop of flavor without overwhelming heat.

• Customize the cheese mixture: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding pepper jack or mozzarella can enhance the flavor profile and add a fun twist to your poppers.

• Don’t overstuff: While it’s tempting to load up those jalapeño halves, keep the filling balanced. Overstuffing can make them difficult to wrap and may result in messy poppers.

• Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. It also helps prevent sticking and allows for even cooking.

• Serve warm: These poppers are best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Serve them immediately to ensure they retain their crispy texture and gooey filling!

How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

Presenting your Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness to your platter.
• Sour cream or ranch dressing: Provide a creamy dipping option that complements the spicy flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip brings a cool contrast to the spicy jalapeños, making it a perfect pairing.
• Fresh veggie platter: Crisp vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers offer a refreshing crunch alongside the rich poppers.
• Chips and salsa: Tortilla chips with zesty salsa are always a hit at gatherings and add an extra layer of flavor.
• Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can balance out the richness of the poppers while adding a nice crunch.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket will be an absolute showstopper at any gathering. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket are perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re getting ready for a party or simply want to have a delicious snack on hand, these poppers can easily be made ahead and stored for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the poppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After baking, let the poppers cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350F.
• Place the frozen or refrigerated poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket.

Can I make Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later. Simply follow the storage methods mentioned above.

What can I use instead of crescent rolls for Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket?

If you’re looking for alternatives to crescent rolls, you can use puff pastry or gluten-free dough. Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions provided on the package.

How spicy are Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket?

The spice level depends on the type of jalapeños used. If you’re concerned about heat, opt for milder jalapeños or remove more seeds and membranes before filling them.

Can I customize the filling in my Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket?

Definitely! Feel free to add different cheeses, spices, or even mix-ins like chopped green onions or bacon alternatives to personalize your poppers.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket as much as I do! They’re not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making them an absolute hit at any gathering. Whether it’s game day, a family get-together, or just a cozy night in, these poppers are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!