As I gathered with friends for another game day, I could sense a low-key mini crisis in the air: the snack table was feeling a bit lackluster. Enter: Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket with Mustard Cheese Sauce. This delightful appetizer transforms the familiar flavors of pigs in a blanket into an irresistible party hit. Flaky pizza dough cradles savory lil’ smokies, making it the ultimate finger food for gatherings. It’s not only quick to prep but also offers a fun, interactive experience for everyone to enjoy. Dipping each pull-apart piece into tangy mustard cheese sauce adds a mouthwatering twist that’s hard to resist. Have you ever witnessed a snack become the life of the party? You’re about to!

Why are Pull Apart Pigs a Must-Try?

Uniquely Fun: This recipe adds an exciting twist to traditional pigs in a blanket, making it a great conversation starter at parties.

Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your gathering.

Versatile Dipping Options: Pair your pull-apart delight with a variety of sauces like marinara, ranch, or even hot sauce to accommodate different tastes.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a birthday celebration, or a cozy family night, these bites fit the bill as a scrumptious appetizer that everyone will love.

Interactive Eating Experience: Watching friends tear apart the dish adds an element of fun that enhances the whole event. Don’t forget to explore making them ahead of time, as it’s a great way to ease your party preparation stress!

Ingredients

Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket Ingredients

For the Dough

Unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps with browning; substitute with margarine if necessary.
Pizza dough – Provides the main structure; store-bought can save time, and gluten-free dough works great too.

For the Filling

Lil’ smokies – The main protein component; eases preparation; regular hot dogs can be an easy alternative.

For the Mustard Cheese Sauce

All-purpose flour – Essential for thickening the cheese sauce; no direct substitutes work as well.
Milk – Vital for creaminess in the sauce; low-fat or plant-based varieties can be used as substitutes.
Whole grain mustard – Adds the right acidity and depth; substitute with Dijon if you prefer a smoother taste.
White cheddar cheese – Brings flavor and creaminess to the sauce; yellow cheddar or mozzarella can be used instead.
Salt and pepper – Important seasoning for taste; adjust to your liking.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the heat is evenly distributed when you bake your Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket, resulting in a beautifully crispy exterior. Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position for the best baking results.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan
While the oven is warming up, grab a 9-inch springform pan and brush the bottom and sides generously with melted unsalted butter. This step not only adds flavor but also prevents the dough from sticking, allowing for an easy release once your pull-apart treat is ready.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a rolling pin for an even surface. Once rolled out, take a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 1 ½” by 2” pieces. These will be used to wrap around your lil’ smokies.

Step 4: Wrap the Smokies
Take each lil’ smokie and place it in the center of a dough rectangle. Carefully wrap the dough around the smokie, pinching the seams to seal them tightly. Make sure each piece is securely enclosed to maintain its shape while baking, creating the perfect filling for your Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket.

Step 5: Arrange in the Pan
Begin placing the wrapped smokies upright around the perimeter of the prepared springform pan, packing them snugly together. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows them to pull apart easily once baked. Ensure they are touching to create that delightful pull-apart effect.

Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil, which helps retain moisture as they bake. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial covered phase allows the dough to rise fully while keeping it soft and tender inside.

Step 7: Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil to allow the tops of the Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket to brown beautifully. Return the pan to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the dough turns golden brown and puffed, signaling it’s ready to be enjoyed!

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the dough set, making it easier to pull apart. After cooling, release the sides of the springform pan and present your Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket with a side of mustard cheese sauce for dipping.

Step 9: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium pot over medium heat, melt some unsalted butter. Whisk in all-purpose flour until smooth and bubbly, about 1 minute. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Next, fold in whole grain mustard and shredded white cheddar cheese until the sauce is silky and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, perfecting your dip for these delightful bites!

How to Store and Freeze Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket

Fridge: Store leftover Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: If already baked, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the exterior stays crispy.

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble your Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket a day ahead and refrigerate them overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven, and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket

Springform Pan Magic: Using a springform pan not only makes for an impressive presentation but aids in easy removal, ensuring every piece remains intact.
Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dish a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake straight from the fridge for a no-stress game day.
Avoid Overstuffing: When arranging the wrapped smokies, pack them snugly but not too tightly; this ensures they rise and maintain their shape beautifully.
Dough Prep: If using frozen pizza dough, remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight. This makes rolling and cutting much easier.
Season to Taste: Be sure to adjust the salt and pepper levels in both the dish and cheese sauce to suit your palate. Each flavor counts!
Creative Dips: While the mustard cheese sauce shines, don’t hesitate to offer a variety of dips like marinara or ranch; this adds to the fun and caters to everyone’s tastes.

Make Ahead Options

These Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the wrapped smokies and place them in a greased springform pan, then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. This method keeps the dough fresh while allowing the flavors to meld together, ensuring that they’re just as delicious when baked. When you’re ready to serve, take them directly from the fridge to the oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to account for the cold start. Enjoy the convenience of a stress-free appetizer that everyone will love!

Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket Variations

Customize your Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket to delight your guests with a range of tasty twists and options.

Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your cheese sauce for a flavor explosion that will tantalize the taste buds. The creaminess of the cheese complements the heat beautifully.
Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the cheese sauce for a pop of color and added freshness. It’ll take your sauce to the next level, making bite-sized pieces even more irresistible.
Different Cheeses: Swap in gouda, pepper jack, or fontina cheese for unique flavors. Each cheese brings a different character, enriching the overall taste experience.
Veggie Twist: Incorporate sliced bell peppers or mushrooms in place of some smokies for a delightful veggie option. This gives a satisfying texture and bursts of flavor with every bite.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. It remains just as delicious, ensuring everyone can join in the fun!
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the finished product for a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with savory elements. This unique twist will have guests asking for the recipe!
Dipping Variety: Serve with a mix of dipping sauces, such as ranch, barbecue, or a spicy aioli, to cater to varying tastes. Offering choices adds excitement to the tasting experience.
Make-Ahead Ease: Prepare a day in advance by assembling the dish and refrigerating overnight. Bake it just before your gathering starts for an effortless entertaining experience.

Explore these variations and watch your Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket become a new classic at every gathering!

What to Serve with Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket

Get ready to elevate your snack game with delightful sides that perfectly complement this interactive appetizer.

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch balances the warm, savory pops, adding bright flavors that cut through richness.
Spicy Buffalo Wings: The heat of buffalo wings contrasts nicely with the cheesy dip, creating a fun party atmosphere.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks create a comforting base to dip into the cheese sauce or augment the smokies’ flavor.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Dressed in herbs and spices, the crunchiness and heartiness of these wedges makes a wonderful contrast to the fluffy dough.
Classic Caesar Salad: A light, tangy salad offers a refreshing texture that’s an excellent counterpoint to the richness of the pigs in a blanket.
Vegetable Platter: Fresh, crisp veggies and a zesty dip provide color and crunch, maintaining a balance in flavors for your snack spread.
Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a juicy sweetness, cleansing the palate between bites of rich cheesy goodness.
Chilled Sparkling Water: This refreshing drink is not only a thirst quencher but also complements the savory elements without overpowering them.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For sweets, these warm cookies offer a nostalgic touch, ensuring your dessert game is as strong as your appetizers!

Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select fresh pizza dough?
Absolutely! When choosing pizza dough, look for any that is refrigerator section or produce aisle in your grocery store. A fresh dough should feel slightly tacky but not sticky, and should have no dark spots or signs of spoilage. If making homemade dough, let it rest until it’s doubled in size for the best results.

How do I store leftover Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket?
You can store your leftover Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes to re-crisp the exterior, letting the delightful flavors come back to life.

Can I freeze Pull Apart Pigs in a Blanket?
Yes! To freeze, tightly wrap the assembled but unbaked pull-aparts in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven from frozen, allowing an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time for perfection!

What if my dough is too sticky to work with?
Very! If you find that the dough is stickier than you’d like while rolling it out, don’t panic. Simply sprinkle a little more all-purpose flour on your work surface and on top of the dough. Lightly knead in the flour until it becomes easier to handle. Avoid adding too much, as it can alter the texture of your pull-aparts!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re serving this dish to guests with dietary restrictions, use gluten-free pizza dough, and consider dairy-free alternatives for the cheese and milk in the sauce. Always inquire about any specific allergies your guests might have. For pet owners, remember that lil’ smokies and cheese are not suitable for dogs, so keep those delectable bites out of their reach.

Can I make the mustard cheese sauce ahead of time?
Of course! You can make the mustard cheese sauce ahead by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm and combined—perfect for dipping your pull-apart treats!