Name: Pigs in a Quilt: A Cozy Guide to Quilting with Pig Designs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24-30 "Pigs in a Quilt"
Ingredients: 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts; 1 pound fully cooked smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or Polish sausage; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 tablespoon milk or water; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional); 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (optional, for serving); 1/4 cup honey mustard (optional, for serving)

Pigs in a Quilt, a delightful and comforting dish, is about to become your new favorite appetizer or snack! Imagine biting into a flaky, golden-brown pastry, only to discover a juicy, savory sausage nestled inside. It's a symphony of textures and flavors that's simply irresistible. Have you ever wondered about the origins of this seemingly simple yet incredibly satisfying treat?

While the exact history of Pigs in a Quilt is a bit hazy, similar concepts have existed in various cultures for centuries. Think of the British "sausage roll" or the Czech "klobasnek" – all variations on the theme of wrapping savory meat in dough. What makes Pigs in a Quilt so universally appealing? It's the perfect combination of convenience and deliciousness. They're easy to make, portable, and always a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for parties, game days, or even a quick weeknight dinner.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can use different types of sausages, experiment with various cheeses, or add a touch of spice to create your own signature version. But no matter how you customize it, the core appeal remains the same: a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious bite that will leave you wanting more. So, let's get started and learn how to make the perfect Pigs in a Quilt!

Ingredients:

1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
1 pound fully cooked smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or Polish sausage
1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon milk or water
1 tablespoon poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional)
1/4 cup Dijon mustard (optional, for serving)
1/4 cup honey mustard (optional, for serving)

Preparing the Sausage and Dough:

First things first, let's get our sausage ready. Take your pound of fully cooked smoked sausage and slice it into approximately 1-inch thick rounds. You want them to be bite-sized and easy to manage when they're wrapped in the pie crust. Set these aside for now.
Now, let's tackle the pie crust. Take your refrigerated pie crusts out of the package. Usually, you'll have two crusts in a package. Unroll one of the crusts onto a lightly floured surface. This will prevent it from sticking and make it easier to work with.
Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the pie crust into strips. I like to make my strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long. The exact dimensions aren't crucial, but you want them to be long enough to wrap around the sausage rounds comfortably. You should get quite a few strips from each pie crust.
Repeat the process with the second pie crust. Unroll it onto the floured surface and cut it into similar strips. Try to keep the strips relatively uniform in size for even cooking and a consistent look.

Wrapping the Sausages:

This is where the fun begins! Take one of your sausage rounds and a strip of pie crust. Wrap the pie crust strip around the sausage, overlapping the edges slightly. You don't need to completely cover the sausage; leaving a little bit of the sausage exposed at the ends is perfectly fine – it actually adds to the rustic charm of these "pigs in a quilt."
Press the overlapping edges of the pie crust together gently to seal them. This will help prevent the crust from unraveling during baking. You can also lightly moisten the edges with a tiny bit of water to help them adhere better.
Place the wrapped sausage onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper will prevent the "pigs in a quilt" from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup a breeze.
Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining sausage rounds and pie crust strips. Arrange the wrapped sausages on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even baking.

Preparing the Egg Wash and Baking:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the "pigs in a quilt" in to bake. This will ensure that the crust cooks evenly and becomes golden brown.
While the oven is preheating, prepare the egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and the milk or water. This egg wash will give the "pigs in a quilt" a beautiful golden sheen and help the poppy seeds or sesame seeds (if using) adhere to the crust.
Using a pastry brush, gently brush the tops of the wrapped sausages with the egg wash. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the pie crust.
If you're using poppy seeds or sesame seeds, sprinkle them evenly over the egg-washed crust. This adds a nice visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor.
Place the baking sheet with the "pigs in a quilt" into the preheated oven.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie crust is golden brown and the sausage is heated through. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Once the "pigs in a quilt" are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the "pigs in a quilt" warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Dijon mustard and honey mustard are classic choices that complement the savory flavor of the sausage and the flaky pie crust. Ketchup, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy ranch dressing would also be delicious.
These "pigs in a quilt" are perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or even a light meal. They're great for parties, potlucks, or game day gatherings.
You can also get creative with the fillings. Try adding a little bit of cheese or a sprinkle of herbs to the pie crust before wrapping it around the sausage. The possibilities are endless!
For a fun twist, try using different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo. Just make sure the sausage is fully cooked before wrapping it in the pie crust.
Store any leftover "pigs in a quilt" in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or air fryer.

Tips for Success:

Don't overfill the pie crust. If you use too much sausage, the crust may not cook evenly.
Seal the edges of the pie crust tightly. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Use parchment paper to line the baking sheet. This will prevent the "pigs in a quilt" from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Keep an eye on the "pigs in a quilt" while they're baking. They can burn easily, so check them frequently.
Let the "pigs in a quilt" cool slightly before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth.

Variations:

Cheesy Pigs in a Quilt: Add a small cube of cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the center of each sausage round before wrapping it in the pie crust.
Spicy Pigs in a Quilt: Use a spicy sausage, such as chorizo or andouille, for a kick of heat. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pie crust.
Herbaceous Pigs in a Quilt: Sprinkle some dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, onto the pie crust before wrapping it around the sausage.
Everything Bagel Pigs in a Quilt: Brush the egg wash and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.

Make Ahead Instructions:

You can assemble the "pigs in a quilt" ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the pie crust from drying out. When you're ready to bake, simply brush them with the egg wash and bake as directed.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our "Pigs in a Quilt" recipe is more than just a fun snack; it's a delightful experience that brings together the comforting flavors of savory sausage and flaky pastry in a way that's simply irresistible. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and utterly satisfying treat. The combination of the juicy sausage nestled within the golden-brown, buttery quilt of dough is a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the sheer deliciousness, it's incredibly versatile. It's perfect for a casual brunch, a fun appetizer at your next party, or even a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Kids absolutely adore them, and adults can't resist their charm. Plus, the recipe is so simple that even novice cooks can whip up a batch with confidence. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving and customizing these little delights! For a classic touch, serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce. Mustard (yellow, Dijon, or honey mustard) is always a winner, but don't be afraid to get creative! Ketchup, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo can add a unique twist. Looking to elevate your "Pigs in a Quilt" game? Consider these variations: * Cheese, Please! Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese inside the pastry before baking for an extra layer of gooey goodness. * Spice It Up! Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sausage mixture for a fiery kick. * Herbaceous Delight! Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a more sophisticated flavor profile. * Sweet and Savory! Brush the tops of the pastries with a light coating of maple syrup or honey before baking for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory sausage perfectly. * Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top of the pastries before baking for an extra layer of flavor and texture. These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment and create your own signature "Pigs in a Quilt" recipe! I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of biting into these warm, savory treats. I'm confident that it will become a new favorite in your household. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the endless possibilities for customization. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with different flavors and fillings, I know you'll create something truly special. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. I can't wait to hear about your experience! Please, try this Pigs in a Quilt recipe and share your creations with me in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what dipping sauces you paired them with, and what your family and friends thought. I'm eager to see your photos and hear your stories! Happy baking!