Discover the absolute best way to create a crowd-pleasing snack with these golden, crispy Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket made using savory beef sausages. This recipe delivers a satisfying crunch and a juicy center in just a fraction of the time required by a traditional oven.
Crispy Beef Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
Ingredients
- 1 Package (12 oz) Beef Cocktail Sausages
- 1 Can (8 oz) Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough
- 1 Large Egg (beaten)
- 1 Tablespoon Sesame Seeds or Poppy Seeds
- 2 Tablespoons Yellow Mustard (no wine)
Instructions
- 1 Pat the beef cocktail sausages dry with a paper towel to ensure the dough adheres properly.
- 2 Unroll the crescent dough and cut each triangle into three smaller, long strips using a pizza cutter.
- 3 Place a beef sausage at the wide end of each strip and roll tightly toward the point.
- 4 Lightly brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- 5 Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer and cook at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown.
Why You Will Love Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
The beauty of making Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket lies in the perfect marriage of convenience and culinary satisfaction. Historically, these appetizers were reserved for long oven bakes that often resulted in unevenly cooked dough, either too doughy on the inside or burnt on the outside. However, the rapid air circulation technology within a modern appliance like the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt ensures that the heat hits every angle of the pastry simultaneously. This creates a uniform puff that is light, airy, and incredibly crisp. By focusing on 100% beef sausages, you also elevate the flavor profile, providing a rich, savory depth that outshines standard processed meat options. This version of Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket is not just a snack, it is a refined take on a classic that honors dietary preferences without sacrificing an ounce of taste.
The Essential Equipment for Perfect Results
To achieve the consistent results seen in professional kitchens, your choice of tools is paramount. While any air fryer can technically do the job, the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt is particularly well-suited for Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket because of its large family capacity and precise temperature control. If you are preparing a large batch for a sporting event or a family gathering, you want an appliance that can handle multiple rows of sausages without crowding, which leads to steaming rather than frying. Furthermore, if you plan to make a custom dipping sauce, the Ninja BN751 Professional Plus DUO Blender is an excellent companion. Its 1000W motor can emulsify a honey-mustard or a broth-based dip into a silky-smooth consistency in seconds. For those who prefer to prep their beef sausages or dough from scratch, the Cuisinart 8 Cup Food Processor makes fast work of any chopping or slicing tasks. You can find more helpful guides on our sitemap to help you navigate your kitchen equipment choices.
Selecting the Best Beef Sausages
When shopping for your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket, the quality of the beef is the most important factor. Look for “All-Beef” or “100% Beef” labels on cocktail franks or mini sausages. These sausages are typically seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and paprika, which provides a robust flavor that complements the buttery pastry. Since we are strictly avoiding pork, it is essential to read the casing information as well, some brands use collagen casings derived from beef, which is the preferred choice for this recipe. Because beef franks tend to be juicier than their counterparts, they stand up well to the high-heat environment of the air fryer. This ensures that when you bite into your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket, you get a snap of the sausage skin followed by a burst of flavor that isn’t dried out by the cooking process.
The Secret to the Crispiest Pastry
The “blanket” part of Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket is just as crucial as the “pig.” Most refrigerated crescent roll doughs are designed for the oven, which uses a slower, radiant heat. In the air fryer, the dough expands rapidly. To ensure it doesn’t become greasy, always keep the dough chilled until the very moment you are ready to wrap. If the dough reaches room temperature, the fats within the layers begin to melt, resulting in a flat, heavy wrap rather than a light, flaky one. When you roll your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket, avoid over-wrapping. A single, thin layer of dough allows the air to penetrate through to the meat, cooking the underside of the pastry. If you have extra dough, don’t double-wrap, instead, use the Cuisinart 8 Cup Food Processor to shred some cheese to sprinkle inside for a different variation. For more inspiration, visit our sitemap to see our full list of pastry-based recipes.
Dipping Sauces Without Alcohol or Pork
Standard accompaniments for Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket often include Dijon mustard, which frequently contains white wine. To keep this recipe strictly compliant with our dietary rules, we substitute Dijon with a high-quality yellow mustard or a blend of mustard powder and apple juice. This combination provides the necessary acidity and tang without any alcohol content. Another fantastic option is a savory beef-broth reduction. By simmering beef broth with a touch of honey and garlic, you create a rich, umami-forward dip that mirrors the flavors of the beef sausages. If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can blend roasted peppers and beef broth in the Ninja BN751 Professional Plus DUO Blender to create a zesty sauce. These small adjustments ensure that your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket remain accessible and delicious for all guests.
Storage and Reheating for Maximum Freshness
If you find yourself with leftovers, which is rare for such a popular dish, proper storage is key to maintaining the integrity of the pastry. Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket should never be stored in plastic bags while warm, as the steam will turn the crisp dough into a soggy mess. Instead, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, place them in the Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Storage Set of 9. These containers are leak-proof and stackable, making them perfect for meal prep. For long-term storage, use the FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer Machine to prevent freezer burn. When you are ready to enjoy your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket again, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes. This will revive the crunch far better than a microwave ever could. You can find more tips on food preservation at our sitemap.
Can I use regular beef hot dogs instead of cocktail franks?
Yes, you can certainly use full-sized beef hot dogs for Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket. Simply cut each hot dog into three or four equal pieces before wrapping them in the dough. This is a cost-effective way to make a large batch of Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket for a big party.
Why did my dough stay raw on the inside?
If the dough inside your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket is raw, it is usually because the sausages were too wet or the air fryer was overcrowded. Always pat the beef sausages dry with a paper towel and ensure there is at least half an inch of space between each piece in the basket.
What is the best way to prevent the dough from unrolling?
When wrapping your Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket, ensure the pointed tip of the crescent dough triangle is tucked firmly underneath the sausage. The weight of the sausage will hold the seam in place during the cooking process as the dough expands.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them on a tray covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. When you are ready to eat, just brush with egg wash and air fry as directed.
