Lil Smokies in a Blanket

Lil Smokies in a Blanket is the ultimate party appetizer, combining tender lil’ smokies wrapped in flaky crescent rolls. This recipe shines at any gathering, from game day to holiday parties. With just two ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing snack that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love these bite-sized treats, making them ideal for birthday parties or family events.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them with various dipping sauces like mustard or barbecue for added flavor.
• Minimal Ingredients: With only two simple ingredients, you can easily whip these up anytime.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These lil smokies in a blanket are sure to disappear quickly at parties!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth experience as you prepare this delicious appetizer.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking and easy handling of the hot appetizers.
• Knife: Essential for slicing the crescent dough into triangles efficiently.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe area to work while preparing the crescent rolls.

Ingredients

This lil smokies in a blanket recipe is only two ingredients! Use crescent rolls for the pigs in a blanket dough. It’s the best party appetizer for any occasion!

For the Dough

• 2 cans (8 oz. each) refrigerated crescent rolls

For the Filling

• 48 lil’ smokies (or cocktail sausages)

How to Make Lil Smokies in a Blanket

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

1. Open the cans of crescent dough.
2. Separate into 16 triangles on a cutting board.

Step 3: Slice and Roll

1. Slice each crescent triangle lengthwise into thirds.
2. Place one sausage onto the wider side of each triangle and roll it up towards the thinner side.
3. Place each rolled sausage seam side down on a large baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the dough is baked through and golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious lil smokies in a blanket as an easy-to-make appetizer that everyone will love!

How to Serve Lil Smokies in a Blanket

Lil Smokies in a Blanket are a delightful and easy appetizer perfect for gatherings. They can be served in various ways to enhance the experience for your guests.

With Dipping Sauces

• Mustard: A classic choice that adds a tangy flavor.
• Ketchup: Perfect for those who love a sweeter option.
• Barbecue Sauce: Adds a smoky flavor that complements the little sausages.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy option that balances the savory taste.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses to pair with the smokies.
• Olives and Pickles: Add some tangy bites for contrast.
• Crackers: Provide crunchy textures alongside the soft crescent rolls.

As Party Favors

• Mini Paper Bags: Package individual servings of smokies for guests to take home.
• Themed Toothpicks: Use fun toothpicks that match your party theme for easy eating.

With Fresh Veggies

• Carrot Sticks: Crisp and refreshing, they provide a nice crunch alongside the smokies.
• Celery Sticks: Great for dipping into sauces, adding more flavor options.

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How to Perfect Lil Smokies in a Blanket

To make your Lil Smokies in a Blanket truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Preheat your oven: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated to guarantee an even bake.
• space them out: Place each wrapped smokie at least an inch apart on the baking sheet for even cooking.
• brush with butter: A light brush of melted butter before baking can add extra flavor and golden color.
• experiment with seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder or Italian herbs on top before baking for added taste.

Best Side Dishes for Lil Smokies in a Blanket

Pair your Lil Smokies in a Blanket with these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors well.

1. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a crisp contrast.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with spices make a hearty addition.
3. Macaroni Salad: Creamy pasta salad brings richness and texture to the party spread.
4. Fruit Skewers: Sweet fruit adds freshness; try mixing berries and melon on skewers.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa offer another layer of flavor.
6. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs bring creaminess and are always a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making lil smokies in a blanket, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Ignoring dough temperature: Using cold crescent rolls can lead to uneven baking. Make sure your dough is at room temperature for best results.
• Not cutting the triangles properly: Failing to slice the crescent dough into the right size can result in uneven wraps. Cut each triangle into thirds for a perfect fit around each sausage.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many wrapped sausages on one sheet can cause them to steam instead of bake. Ensure there’s space between each piece for proper airflow.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: If your oven isn’t preheated correctly, the dough may not rise or brown properly. Always preheat your oven to 375°F before baking.
• Skipping the seam side down: Placing the rolled sausages seam side up can lead to unrolling during baking. Always position them seam side down on the baking sheet.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover lil smokies in a blanket in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lil Smokies in a Blanket

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Lil Smokies in a Blanket

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making lil smokies in a blanket.

Can I use other types of sausages?

Yes! You can use any small cocktail sausage or even veggie options if you prefer.

How do I make lil smokies in a blanket gluten-free?

Use gluten-free crescent roll dough available at most grocery stores as an alternative.

What dipping sauces pair well with lil smokies in a blanket?

Mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing are excellent choices for dipping!

How long does it take to prepare lil smokies in a blanket?

The total time is only about 25 minutes, including preparation and baking!

Final Thoughts

This lil smokies in a blanket recipe is not just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile! Perfect for parties or game days, you can customize it with different dips or spices for added flavor. Try it today and enjoy this delightful appetizer that everyone will love!