Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

If you’re looking for a snack that’s both fun and delicious, these Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket are sure to steal the show! Imagine biting into a warm, flaky crescent roll, only to find a perfectly seasoned jalapeño, stuffed with creamy cheese and topped with savory sausage. It’s the perfect blend of flavors that brings everyone together. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a cozy movie night at home, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You can prepare everything in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Trust me, once you try these poppers, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these tasty treats ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and fun presentation. These poppers are perfect for all ages!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble these in advance and bake them just before serving. They’ll be fresh and warm every time!
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer or snack, they fit perfectly into any occasion—from parties to casual get-togethers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spicy jalapeño, creamy cheese, and savory sausage creates an irresistible taste sensation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to make your Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket:

For the Poppers

• 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 Dough

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Instead of smoked sausage, try using turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Change the cheeses: Use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or mix in some cream cheese with herbs for added flavor.
• Add some crunch: Sprinkle chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits over the top before baking for added texture.
• Make it veggie-friendly: Skip the sausage altogether and fill with more cream cheese mixture or add chopped veggies inside!

How to Make Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375F. This ensures that your poppers will bake evenly and get nice and golden brown.

Step 2: Prep the Jalapeños

Chop off the stems of your jalapeños and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to clean out those seeds; this step is crucial if you want to control the heat level!

Step 3: Mix Up the Cheesy Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. This creamy mixture not only adds flavor but also helps bind everything together.

Step 4: Fill Those Peppers

Using a spoon, scoop out a generous dollop of your creamy mixture into each jalapeño half. Spread it out evenly—this will be the star of your poppers!

Step 5: Add the Sausage

Top each filled jalapeño half with one LITL Smokies sausage. The cream cheese acts like glue here—holding everything together beautifully.

Step 6: Roll Them Up

Unwrap your crescent dough and slice each triangle in half. Wrap each jalapeño popper snugly in a small triangle of dough and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Brush with Butter

Melt some butter and brush it over each wrapped popper. Then sprinkle kosher salt on top—it adds that finishing touch we all love!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Your kitchen will smell incredible!

And there you have it—your very own Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket! Enjoy them hot out of the oven with friends or family; they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

Creating these mouthwatering treats is not only fun but also rewarding! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right jalapeños: Opt for fresh, firm jalapeños. This ensures they hold their shape during baking and have the perfect amount of heat.

• Adjust the spice level: For milder poppers, remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. If you like it spicy, leave some seeds in to turn up the heat!

• Use room temperature cream cheese: Soften your cream cheese before mixing to make it easier to blend with the cheddar and spices, resulting in a smoother filling.

• Make ahead of time: You can prepare these poppers a few hours in advance. Assemble them, cover with plastic wrap, and place them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is delicious, feel free to mix it up! Try pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavors and textures in your poppers.

How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket

These delightful bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Serving them beautifully can make all the difference. Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy them.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Sour cream dip: Serve with a side of dairy-free sour cream or yogurt for dipping, adding a creamy contrast to the spicy jalapeños.
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness and enhances the overall presentation.

Side Dishes

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado guacamole complements the richness of the poppers while adding a cooling element.
• Vegetable platter: A colorful selection of fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provides crunch and balance against the savory poppers.
• Chips and salsa: Tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa create a satisfying crunch alongside these cheesy delights.
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or roasted corn adds a sweet touch that pairs wonderfully with the heat of jalapeños.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable experience when serving Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them anytime without hassle. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later, making them an ideal choice for parties or game days!

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

• Arrange the cooled poppers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350F.
• Place the poppers on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket:

Can I make Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket without cream cheese?

Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or even use hummus for a different flavor profile.

How do I spice up my Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket?

For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños into the cheese mixture or topping them with hot sauce before serving.

How long will my Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket last?

When stored properly, they will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Jalapeno Popper Pigs in a Blanket as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they bring warmth and joy to any gathering. So gather your ingredients, roll those poppers, and watch how quickly they disappear! Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends!