National Dish England: Pigs in Blankets (Recipe)
In this article
Few things say festive feasting quite like Pigs in Blankets. These little sausages snugly wrapped in bacon are a fixture of the British Christmas table, beloved by family and friends alike. Crisp on the outside, juicy within, they vanish from the platter almost as quickly as you can set them down. Wonderfully simple to make yet always a crowd-pleaser, they bring a touch of celebration to any gathering, big or small.
About Pigs in Blankets
Pigs in Blankets are an indispensable part of British festive cooking. These tasty little sausages, lovingly wrapped in bacon, are a hugely popular snack to share with family and friends. They turn up on just about every buffet at Christmas and New Year, where their savoury combination of juicy meat and crisp bacon makes them a genuine showstopper. Easy to prepare and endlessly moreish, they have become a much-loved highlight of the season — and they sit happily alongside other British classics such as Sausage Rolls.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 8 small sausages (such as cocktail sausages or mini bratwurst)
- 8 rashers of bacon (such as streaky breakfast bacon)
- Pepper and salt, to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for extra flavour
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients for Pigs in Blankets, it pays to pay attention to the quality of the sausages and the bacon. Look for sausages that are juicy and well seasoned to give the best possible flavour. Fresh bacon delivers the right crispness, while the optional herbs lend the dish a little something special. Many supermarkets now stock local and organic options too, which work beautifully here.
Preparing the dish
Getting Pigs in Blankets ready could hardly be quicker or easier. Start by taking the sausages out of their packaging and letting them rest at room temperature for a short while. This helps them cook more evenly. While the sausages are resting, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius so they turn perfectly crisp once they go in to bake.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.
- Wrap each sausage in a rasher of bacon and arrange them on the tray.
- Season the wrapped sausages with pepper and salt to taste.
- If you like, scatter a few fresh herbs over the top.
- Bake the Pigs in Blankets for about 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Pigs in Blankets are easy to make gluten-free and lactose-free. Simply choose gluten-free sausages, which are widely available in most supermarkets. Do check that the bacon is gluten-free too, as certain brands can contain additives. Alternatively, you could experiment with vegetable sausages that are free from both lactose and gluten and still taste great.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegan or vegetarian versions, you can use special plant-based sausages in place of the meat. There is a wide choice of products on the market that are not only gluten-free but also genuinely tasty. Wrap these sausage alternatives in vegan bacon or conventional puff pastry to round the dish off. That way even vegans can enjoy these popular little bites — much as you might with a vegetarian batch of Lancashire Cheese and Onion Pie.
More tips and tricks
To get the very best from your Pigs in Blankets, try out different types of bacon, such as smoked streaky. This can deepen the flavour and add interesting aromas. You could also tuck a little cheese or some jalapeños into the sausages before wrapping them to create exciting new tastes. Play around with various seasonings to tailor the dish exactly to your liking.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to Pigs in Blankets, and that is all to the good! Adapt the recipe by, for example, using spicy sausages for an extra kick. A quick spell in a marinade or a spice rub can lift the dish considerably too. Let your imagination run free and make this rustic little treat your own personal highlight.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient to hand, there are plenty of alternatives to try. For the sausages, chicken or turkey ones make a lighter option. In place of bacon you could use thin slices of vegetable-based fat or even courgette to offer a unique flavour experience. Be bold and experiment with your favourite ingredients — the same playful spirit that makes Bubble and Squeak with Bacon such a brilliant way to use up odds and ends.
Drink pairing ideas
There is a whole range of drinks to complement the flavour of Pigs in Blankets. A refreshing lager or a fruity cider harmonises beautifully with their savoury richness. A classic red wine can also set off the flavours perfectly over a festive evening. For an alcohol-free option, a sparkling lemonade or a flavoured water is ideal.
Serving and presentation ideas
When it comes to presenting your Pigs in Blankets, the little details matter. Use an attractive serving platter and garnish it with fresh herbs or a selection of dips. BBQ sauce or mustard make ideal accompaniments and give the dish a special edge. You might also consider serving the bites on small skewers or cocktail sticks to make them easier to pick up.
A bit of history
Pigs in Blankets trace their origins to Britain, with a tradition that reaches back to the Victorian era. The dish was originally put together from leftovers to provide a delicious and energy-rich meal. Over time its status shifted from a thrifty, make-do supper to a much-loved festive favourite. Today they are known not only across Britain but in many other countries under various names, a charming chapter of England cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Pigs in Blankets
Pigs in Blankets are not only simple to make, they also bring joy to the table. Whether for festive occasions or a relaxed get-together, these little snacks radiate good cheer and enthusiasm. With their savoury flavour they are a hit with young and old alike. Let this traditional recipe inspire you and enjoy your own version of a true classic.
