Cheesy Pull-Apart Lil Smokies Bake

Pull-Apart Pigs in a Blanket is a warm and cheesy showstopper, perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings. Savory little smokies are wrapped in fluffy pizza dough and baked into a golden, buttery ring that’s just as fun to pull apart as it is to eat. Served with a creamy mustard cheddar dipping sauce, this baked appetizer is a flavorful twist on the classic pigs in a blanket — elevated and designed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This upgraded version of pigs in a blanket combines all the best elements of comfort food into one easy-to-share dish. Here’s why it’s sure to become a favorite:

• A crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any gathering
• Simple ingredients with bold, comforting flavors
• Perfectly soft and golden pull-apart presentation
• Made from scratch or with store-bought pizza dough
• Includes a rich and tangy mustard cheddar dip
• Ideal for parties, holidays, or casual family meals

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 70 to 75 lil’ smokies (about 2 packages, 14 oz each)
• 2 lbs pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 8 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large round baking dish or springform pan.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and cut into small strips about 2×2 inches in size.
3. Wrap each lil’ smoky with a dough strip, sealing the seam by pinching it closed.
4. Arrange the wrapped smokies upright and tightly packed in a spiral pattern inside the greased pan.
5. Brush the tops with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the dough is golden and puffed.
7. While baking, prepare the dipping sauce:
   • In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
   • Stir in the shredded cheddar and mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove the pull-apart ring from the oven and serve warm with the cheddar mustard dipping sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 10 servings
• Calories per Serving: 390 kcal

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the dipping sauce.
• Cheese Inside: Wrap a small piece of cheese with each smoky for gooey centers.
• Dough Alternative: Use crescent roll dough or puff pastry for a flakier texture.
• Herb Butter Finish: Mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley for brushing.
• Mini Version: Bake individual portions in muffin tins for single-serve appetizers.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
The dipping sauce can be stored separately and gently reheated over low heat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ring a few hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen dough?

Absolutely. Thaw the dough according to package instructions before using.

What can I substitute for lil’ smokies?

You can use chopped cooked sausage links or cocktail franks if lil’ smokies are not available.

Can I use a different cheese in the dip?

Yes, sharp cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack all work well in the sauce.

Do I need a special pan?

A springform pan or round baking dish works best to create the pull-apart ring shape, but a regular baking sheet can also be used with careful arrangement.

Is the dipping sauce spicy?

The mustard adds a mild tang but not heat. You can adjust the flavor by using spicy brown mustard or adding hot sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze unbaked, assembled rolls for up to one month. Bake from frozen with extra time.

How do I keep the bottoms from getting soggy?

Make sure the pan is well-greased and avoid overloading with butter before baking.

Can I serve this without the dip?

Yes, it’s delicious on its own, but the dip adds extra flavor and creaminess.

How can I transport this for a party?

Bake in a disposable aluminum pan or bring it in the baking dish covered in foil. Reheat at the host’s house if needed.

Conclusion

Pull-Apart Pigs in a Blanket takes a nostalgic party favorite and transforms it into an impressive, cheesy centerpiece with crispy edges and a warm, gooey center. The creamy mustard cheddar dip elevates the experience, making it ideal for game days, family events, or holiday parties. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe delivers fun, flavor, and irresistible texture in every bite.

Pull-Apart Pigs in a Blanket

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Pull-Apart Pigs in a Blanket are the ultimate party appetizer — savory little smokies wrapped in golden, fluffy pizza dough and baked into a stunning shareable ring. Served with a rich, creamy mustard cheddar dipping sauce, this cheesy, buttery bite-sized snack is perfect for game days, holidays, or any crowd-pleasing occasion.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings
• Category: Appetizers / Party Food / Game Day Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 70 to 75 lil’ smokies (about 2 packages, 14 oz each)

• 2 lbs pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 1 1/2 tbsp whole grain mustard

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• 8 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large round baking dish or springform pan.

2. Roll out pizza dough and cut into 2×2 inch strips.

3. Wrap each lil’ smoky with a dough strip, pinching to seal.

4. Arrange the wrapped smokies upright and tightly packed in a circular pattern in the greased pan.

5. Brush with melted butter and bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and puffed.

6. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes.

7. Slowly whisk in milk, cooking until thickened.

8. Stir in shredded cheddar and mustard; season with salt and pepper.

9. Serve the baked pull-apart ring warm with the mustard cheddar dip.

Notes

• For extra flavor, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning or parmesan on top before baking.

• Can be made ahead and reheated before serving.

• Try jalapeño-cheddar sausages for a spicy twist.

• Serve with extra mustard or ranch dressing on the side.