Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket Recipe: Quick & Easy Breakfast Ideas

What Are Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket?

Breakfast pigs in a blanket are a delicious and inventive breakfast dish that takes the classic “pigs in a blanket” and adds a breakfast twist. Typically, pigs in a blanket are sausages wrapped in dough, but this version includes scrambled eggs, cheese, and other breakfast favorites to make them a complete morning meal. They are easy to prepare, perfect for a busy morning, and can even be prepped ahead of time for a convenient breakfast throughout the week. The flaky dough and savory fillings come together in perfect harmony, creating a satisfying start to your day. Whether you’re serving them for a family breakfast, brunch, or even meal prep, breakfast pigs in a blanket are a crowd-pleasing choice that adds variety and fun to your morning routine.

Why You Should Make Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

This dish stands out because of its combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility. Not only does it offer a unique way to enjoy a savory breakfast, but it can also be customized to suit your taste preferences. The beauty of breakfast pigs in a blanket is in their adaptability. You can swap out ingredients, adjust the seasoning, or even try different types of sausages. This makes the dish a great option for people with dietary restrictions or varying tastes. Additionally, these wrapped delights can be made in advance and stored, making them an excellent option for busy mornings when you don’t have time to cook a full breakfast.

Ingredients for Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Essential Ingredients

To make breakfast pigs in a blanket, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that come together to create this comforting dish. Start with Pillsbury Crescent Roll Dough or any similar pre-made dough, which will provide a golden, flaky exterior once baked. You’ll also need breakfast sausages—either sausage links or patties will work, depending on your preference. For the filling, scrambled eggs are essential to create the perfect balance of fluffiness and flavor. Adding cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella will give the rolls a creamy and rich taste.

Optional Add-Ins

While the basic recipe requires only the aforementioned ingredients, you can also get creative by adding extra flavors. Bacon is a popular add-in, adding a smoky and crispy texture that complements the sausage. If you want a healthier or more colorful version, consider incorporating spinach, bell peppers, or onions for added nutrients and flavor. Mushrooms also work great if you enjoy earthy flavors. For those with dietary preferences or restrictions, vegan sausages and dairy-free cheese can be used as substitutes to make the recipe suitable for vegan or lactose-intolerant individuals.

Preparation: How to Make Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Ingredients

Before you begin assembling your breakfast pigs in a blanket, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or follow the temperature instructions on your dough package. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. While the oven heats up, you can start preparing the other components. If using sausages, cook them according to the package instructions (pan-fry or bake them). For the scrambled eggs, crack a few eggs into a bowl and beat them well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tip: If you’re using frozen sausage links, make sure they’re fully cooked and slightly cooled before wrapping them in dough. This will prevent them from overcooking during baking.

Step 2: Assemble the Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Now, it’s time to assemble your breakfast pigs in a blanket. Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface and separate it into individual triangles as per the dough package directions. At the wide end of each triangle, place a cooked sausage link, followed by a generous spoonful of scrambled eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese (or other add-ins). Carefully roll up the dough around the sausage, eggs, and cheese, pinching the ends to seal them. Place each wrapped bundle on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between them to allow for even baking.

Tip: Be sure to leave a small gap between each roll so they bake evenly and don’t stick together.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Mistake 1: Overstuffing the Dough

One of the most common mistakes people make when preparing breakfast pigs in a blanket is overstuffing the dough. While it might seem tempting to load up on eggs, sausage, and cheese, too much filling can cause the dough to tear or not bake properly. When the dough is too full, it won’t cook through evenly, leaving you with a soggy or undercooked center.

Tip: Stick to a small amount of each filling. A sausage link, a small spoonful of scrambled eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese will be more than enough for each roll.

Mistake 2: Not Using Enough Dough to Wrap

On the flip side, not using enough dough to wrap around your filling can cause the rolls to open up during baking, spilling out the contents. This can result in a messy, hard-to-eat dish and can also cause uneven baking. Be sure that you have enough dough to securely enclose the sausage and eggs.

Tip: If using crescent rolls, don’t pull the dough apart too much when placing the filling; you want to leave enough dough to wrap fully around the fillings.

Alternative Ingredients for Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Vegan and Vegetarian Options

If you’re looking to make your breakfast pigs in a blanket more inclusive or cater to dietary preferences, there are several alternative ingredients you can use. For the sausage, consider plant-based sausage links or tofu-based patties that mimic the taste and texture of traditional sausage. These options are perfect for vegans or vegetarians who still want to enjoy a savory breakfast. You can also try vegetable-based fillings like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a mix of roasted vegetables for a more nutritious, plant-forward option.

Tip: When using vegan sausage, make sure it’s fully cooked and seasoned to avoid any bland flavors. Pair with a plant-based cheese for a complete dairy-free breakfast.

Gluten-Free Variations

For those with gluten intolerance or sensitivities, you can easily modify the recipe to be gluten-free. Instead of using traditional crescent roll dough, try gluten-free dough options available at most grocery stores, or even use gluten-free puff pastry for a lighter, flakier texture. Gluten-free sausages are widely available as well, ensuring you can maintain the same taste and satisfaction without worrying about gluten content. Always check labels to confirm the products are 100% gluten-free.

Tip: If making a gluten-free version, ensure the dough is fully sealed around the fillings to prevent any leakage while baking.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Getting the Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect balance of crispy, golden dough and soft, fluffy filling can sometimes be tricky. One important tip is to brush the dough with a bit of butter or egg wash (an egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) before baking. This will help the dough brown evenly, giving it a beautiful, golden finish. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use olive oil or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and crunch.

Tip: If you’re looking for an extra crispy exterior, increase the baking time by an additional 2–3 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Use the Right Sausage for Flavor

The sausage you choose will heavily influence the final flavor of your breakfast pigs in a blanket. For a savory and slightly spicy kick, go for Italian sausage links or chorizo. If you prefer a milder flavor, breakfast sausage links or pork sausage patties are excellent options. You can even use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner version of the dish. Pre-seasoning your sausage with herbs like thyme or sage will add extra depth to the overall flavor.

Tip: To ensure the sausage is fully cooked and not dry, opt for sausage links with a bit of fat content. You can also break up the sausage into smaller pieces for an even distribution of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Pairing with Drinks

Breakfast pigs in a blanket are versatile enough to pair with a wide variety of drinks, enhancing the overall breakfast experience. For a traditional pairing, freshly brewed coffee is always a winner, providing a rich, bold contrast to the savory flavors of the dish. If you prefer a lighter beverage, fresh orange juice or a fruit smoothie works wonderfully, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the savory filling. For those looking for a more indulgent breakfast, a mimosa or bloody mary can also be a fun addition to a weekend brunch spread.

Tip: To keep it refreshing, try adding some fresh mint leaves to your drink or a splash of sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites.

Serving with Side Dishes

While breakfast pigs in a blanket are filling on their own, serving them with side dishes can elevate the meal. Try pairing with crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes for a satisfying, hearty addition. Sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, offer a nutritious and flavorful side to balance the richness of the sausage and eggs. For a lighter side, fresh fruit salad or sliced avocado can provide a refreshing contrast. If you’re hosting a brunch or feeding a family, consider making a large tray of these savory rolls alongside some easy-to-make sides for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tip: If you have time, a simple yogurt parfait with granola and berries could add a nice touch of sweetness and crunch.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these breakfast pigs in a blanket ahead of time?

Yes, breakfast pigs in a blanket can be made ahead of time. You can assemble the rolls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Simply place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until they’re solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To bake, simply cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Tip: If baking from the fridge or freezer, allow the rolls to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Can I use different types of dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! While crescent roll dough is the most common choice for pigs in a blanket, you can also use puff pastry, biscuits, or even pizza dough for a unique twist. Each type of dough will give a different texture to the final product—puff pastry will be flakier, while biscuit dough will offer a denser, fluffier result.

Tip: If using pizza dough, you may want to roll it thinner to ensure it cooks through evenly without being too doughy.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Breakfast Pigs in a Blanket

Breakfast pigs in a blanket are a delicious and customizable dish that everyone in your family will enjoy. They offer the perfect balance of savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheese wrapped in a flaky, buttery dough. Whether you’re making them for a quick breakfast, a weekend brunch, or a fun meal prep option, they are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences.

With so many ways to tweak the recipe to your liking, breakfast pigs in a blanket are a dish that you can keep coming back to and never get tired of. From adding bacon and vegetables to choosing different types of dough and cheese, the possibilities are endless. So, next time you’re looking for an easy yet delicious breakfast idea, give these breakfast pigs in a blanket a try—you won’t regret it!

Tip: Don’t forget to experiment with dips! A side of maple syrup, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup will take your breakfast pigs in a blanket to the next level.

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