Easy Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets: Your Ultimate Guide to Perfect Holiday Appetizers

Imagine perfectly crispy bacon wrapped around succulent mini sausages, ready in a fraction of the time and freeing up precious oven space during the bustling holiday season. Yes, you absolutely can cook Pigs in Blankets in your air fryer, and it’s a game-changer! These delightful Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets are incredibly easy to make, consistently crunchy, and always the first to vanish from any party platter. In just 15 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into an irresistible festive treat, needing nothing more than a side of tangy cranberry sauce for dipping.

The perpetual challenge during Christmas (and indeed for our American and Canadian friends at Thanksgiving) is the eternal struggle for oven space. When you’re hosting guests, every inch of your oven counts, especially with multiple dishes vying for attention. This common dilemma makes the air fryer an invaluable kitchen appliance, offering a quick and efficient solution for beloved holiday classics.

This is precisely why we’re so enthusiastic about this method for cooking Pigs in Blankets in the air fryer. It’s a super-speedy, completely oven-free way to prepare everyone’s absolute favorite party snack. No more juggling trays or preheating multiple appliances – just perfectly cooked pigs in blankets with minimal fuss. If you’re exploring other simple yet delicious air fryer dinner ideas, don’t miss our Crispy Pork Belly in the Air Fryer or Marinated Air-Fryer Lamb Chops.

Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets Recipe

These aren’t just any Pigs in Blankets; they’re the ultimate stress-free holiday appetizer, specifically designed for convenience and deliciousness. Here’s why this air fryer method will become your new go-to:

• Unbeatable Convenience: Forget about fighting for oven space! Your air fryer handles these crispy bites perfectly, leaving your main oven free for larger roasts and sides. It’s an invaluable tool for entertaining, especially during peak holiday cooking.
• Time-Saving: With a cook time of just 15 minutes, you can have a fresh batch of pigs in blankets ready in a flash. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your guests or relaxing with family.
• Effortless Preparation: This is less a complicated recipe and more a set of straightforward cooking instructions. Simply place them in the air fryer and let the magic happen. Minimal effort, maximum reward!
• Perfectly Crispy Results Every Time: The air fryer excels at circulating hot air, guaranteeing bacon that’s wonderfully crisp and sausages that are juicy and tender without being greasy. Say goodbye to soggy bacon forever!
• Make Ahead & Reheat Friendly: You can easily cook these pigs in blankets ahead of time and reheat them to perfection when your guests arrive. This feature is a lifesaver for hosts, allowing you to get a head start on your party preparations.
• Gluten-Free Adaptable: Catering to dietary needs is simple. You can effortlessly make these gluten-free by either purchasing readily available gluten-free pigs in blankets or by following our instructions below to assemble your own with gluten-free sausages and bacon.

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring just a few key components to create a crowd-pleasing snack. Remember, the full, detailed recipe can always be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Pigs in Blankets: For the ultimate ease of entertaining, we highly recommend buying pre-assembled pigs in blankets. These are widely available in most supermarkets, especially during the festive season. They come pre-wrapped, meaning all you have to do is unpackage them and place them directly into your air fryer. Look for good quality sausages and streaky bacon for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer to assemble your own, see our ‘Substitutions and Variations’ section for tips on creating perfect homemade versions.
• Cranberry Sauce: This tangy, sweet condiment is the quintessential dipping partner for pigs in blankets, adding a burst of festive flavor. A good quality jarred cranberry sauce works perfectly for convenience. However, if you have a little extra time and want to impress, making your own from scratch is a rewarding endeavor. Here’s a great recipe for really simple cranberry sauce that will elevate your dipping experience.

That’s it! Two simple ingredients for an utterly delicious and effortless appetizer. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these come together and how popular they are with everyone.

Equipment You Will Need

To whip up a batch of these fantastic Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets, you won’t need much. The air fryer does most of the heavy lifting!

• Air Fryer: Any model of air fryer will work, whether it’s a basket-style or oven-style. Ensure it’s clean and ready to go.
• Tongs: Useful for turning the pigs in blankets halfway through cooking and for removing them from the hot air fryer basket.
• Serving Platter: For presenting your delicious creations alongside the cranberry sauce.
• Small Bowl: For your cranberry sauce dip.

Substitutions and Variations for Your Pigs in Blankets

While classic Pigs in Blankets are a triumph in themselves, there’s always room for a little customization to suit your taste or occasion. Get creative with these simple variations:

• Assemble Your Own: If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious or simply can’t find pre-made pigs in blankets, crafting your own is surprisingly easy. Use high-quality cocktail sausages (or cut larger sausages into smaller, bite-sized pieces) and wrap each one with about half a piece of streaky bacon. To ensure the bacon stays securely wrapped during air frying, you can secure the join with half a toothpick. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving! This also allows you to choose your favorite type of sausage, from traditional pork to Cumberland, or even vegetarian options.
• Sweet & Sticky Glaze: For a delightful sweet and savory twist, turn your pigs in blankets into sticky glazed morsels. A few minutes before the end of the cooking time, once the bacon is already wonderfully crisp, carefully drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the pigs in blankets. Toss them gently in the air fryer basket to coat evenly, and then air fry for an additional 3 minutes. Be aware that this sticky glaze can create some residue, so you will need to clean out your air fryer basket thoroughly afterward, or use an air fryer liner for easier cleanup. You could also try a touch of brown sugar for caramelization.
• Spicy Kick: Infuse a bit of heat by brushing the bacon with a thin layer of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes before cooking. For a smoky heat, a dash of smoked paprika works wonders.
• Herbaceous Twist: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the bacon before wrapping, or sprinkle over the cooked pigs in blankets for a fragrant finish.
• Cheesy Delight: Before wrapping, tuck a tiny sliver of cheese (like cheddar or gruyere) alongside the sausage. As it cooks, the cheese will melt and become wonderfully gooey.
• Different Dips: While cranberry sauce is traditional, don’t limit yourself! Experiment with other festive dips like honey mustard, apple sauce, a spicy tomato relish, or even a creamy blue cheese dip for a gourmet touch.

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets

Preparing these delightful appetisers in your air fryer couldn’t be simpler. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly cooked, crispy pigs in blankets every time. You can find the full recipe with detailed measurements and nutrition information in the recipe card below.

ONE: Prepare and Arrange. Begin by placing your pigs in blankets into the air fryer basket. It’s crucial to arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are evenly spaced out. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this allows the hot air to circulate properly around each piece, leading to maximum crispness and even cooking. If you’re cooking a larger batch, work in several batches to achieve the best results.

TWO: Air Fry to Perfection. Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook for 15 minutes. During this time, the bacon will become beautifully golden and crisp, and the sausages will cook through and be wonderfully juicy. For optimal crispiness, especially if your basket is quite full (even if not strictly overcrowded), it’s a good idea to shake the basket or turn the pigs in blankets halfway through the cooking time (around the 7-8 minute mark). This ensures all sides get exposed to the circulating hot air.

THREE: Serve and Enjoy. Once cooked, carefully remove the hot pigs in blankets from the air fryer basket using tongs. Transfer them to a serving platter and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Don’t forget to place a small bowl of tangy cranberry sauce on the side for dipping – it’s the perfect accompaniment!

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets

Achieving perfectly crisp and delicious pigs in blankets every time is easy with these simple tips:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This is arguably the most crucial tip for air frying anything. For truly crispy results, ensure your pigs in blankets are placed in a single layer with a little space between each. This allows the hot air to circulate effectively, preventing them from steaming instead of crisping. If you’re making a large batch, cook in several smaller ones.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: While not always strictly necessary, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the pigs in blankets can help them start cooking immediately and achieve a more uniform crispness.
• Shake or Turn Halfway: For even browning and crispiness on all sides, give your air fryer basket a good shake halfway through the cooking time. Alternatively, use tongs to individually turn each pig in a blanket.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: Not all pigs in blankets are created equal. Some might have thicker bacon or larger sausages. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. If they look done earlier, remove them. If they need a little more time to reach your desired crispness, add an extra 2-3 minutes.
• Pat Dry (If Making Your Own): If you’re wrapping your own sausages, lightly patting the bacon dry with paper towels can help it crisp up even better. Excess moisture can inhibit browning.
• Use Toothpicks for Homemade: As mentioned in variations, if you’re wrapping your own, half a toothpick can be invaluable for securing the bacon wrap and preventing it from unraveling during cooking. Remember to remove them before serving!
• Monitor for Smoke: Bacon can render fat, which in some air fryer models, especially if there’s old residue, can cause a bit of smoke. Ensure your air fryer is clean, and if you notice excessive smoke, you can place a slice of bread at the bottom of the basket to absorb excess grease.
• Serve Immediately: Pigs in blankets are always best served hot and fresh from the air fryer when the bacon is at its crispiest.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Serving Your Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets

These savory bites are incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Classic Appetizer: Serve them hot on a platter with a generous bowl of cranberry sauce for dipping. They’re a staple for Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve gatherings, or any festive celebration.
• Party Spread: Include them as part of a larger appetizer spread alongside other finger foods like mini quiches, bruschetta, or cheese and crackers.
• Brunch Addition: They make a fantastic addition to a hearty brunch spread, especially during the holidays.
• Lunchbox Treat: Cold pigs in blankets can also be a delightful treat in a lunchbox for both kids and adults.

Storing Leftover Pigs in Blankets

If by some miracle you have any leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Allow cooked pigs in blankets to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked pigs in blankets. Once cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1-2 months. This prevents them from sticking together.

Reheating Leftover Pigs in Blankets

The air fryer is also excellent for reheating, bringing them back to their crispy glory:

• From Refrigerated: Place cold pigs in blankets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and crisp again.
• From Frozen: Do not thaw. Place frozen pigs in blankets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until hot and crispy. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and your air fryer model.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets

Here are some common questions you might have when making pigs in blankets in your air fryer:

Other Festive Party Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’re looking for more easy and delicious party food recipes for the festive season, we’ve got a treasure trove of delightful ideas to make your celebrations extra special. Pair these with your Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets for an unforgettable spread!

• Try our delightful Honey and Wholegrain Mustard Sausage Rolls for another savory bite.
• Our Easy Smoked Salmon Pâté is elegant and effortlessly impressive.
• For a taste of global flavors, whip up some Easy Chicken Pakora with Mint and Coriander Chutney.
• Embrace the autumn and winter vibes with our adorable Baked Camembert and Cranberry Puff Pastry Pumpkin.
• For more cheesy festive recipes that are quick and easy, try my Brie Puff Pastry Bites or the show-stopping Brie Crescent Wreath.
• Alternatively, these honey mustard sausages, sticky hoisin sausages, or smashed potatoes with crème fraîche are equally simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Made This Recipe and Loved It?

Your feedback truly brightens my day! If you’ve tried this Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets recipe and enjoyed it, I would absolutely love it if you could leave a review in the comments section below. Hearing your thoughts, any creative changes you made, or the stories behind why you decided to try my recipes means the world to me. Moreover, if you share a photo of your culinary creation on Instagram, please remember to tag me @desertislanddishes – it makes my day to see you bringing my recipes to life!

Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 1 vote

Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets

By: Margie

These easy Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets are the perfect party food – ready in just 15 minutes all you need to do is add a bowl of cranberry sauce for dipping and dunking!

Cook: 15 mins
Total: 15 mins
Servings: 6 servings

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Ingredients

• 400 g pigs in blankets
• Cranberry sauce, to serve

Instructions

1. Simply place the pigs in blankets in the air fryer evenly spaced out.
2. Air fry for 15 minutes at 200°C (390°F), or until golden and crisp. They may need turning halfway if the basket is particularly crowded.
3. Serve hot with cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

To get ahead then re-heat, simply air fry them for a further 5-7 minutes or so at 180°C (350°F) when cooked through. You don’t need to worry about overcrowding the air fryer basket when you’re re-heating, so this is a good way to serve a crowd: crisp them up properly in batches ahead of time, then heat them through when your guests arrive.

Nutrition

Calories: 222 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 3 g,
Protein: 11 g,
Fat: 18 g,
Saturated Fat: 7 g,
Sodium: 867 mg,
Fiber: 1 g,
Sugar: 0.4 g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.