Pigs In A Pen
Pigs In A Pen offers a savory, sweet, and smoky flavor combination with tender hot dogs wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in brown sugar. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to delight guests with its indulgent taste and fun presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Partially cook bacon slices until slightly crispy.
- Cut hot dogs into thirds.
- Wrap each hot dog piece with a bacon slice and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped hot dogs in a crock-pot or slow cooker.
- Cover with brown sugar.
- Cook until hot dogs are heated through and bacon is fully cooked, about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier bacon texture, consider cooking the wrapped hot dogs in the oven after the slow cooker for a few minutes. If you're short on bacon, turkey bacon can be a leaner alternative. For a flavor twist, try adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the brown sugar, which would complement the sweetness beautifully. This dish is great as a fun appetizer or snack.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Pigs In A Pen as a fun appetizer at parties or game day gatherings. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard. For a complete meal, consider serving with sides like coleslaw or potato salad, or browse more Pork recipes to complement your main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for a crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pigs In A Pen contains roughly 104 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Pigs In A Pen ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the wrapped hot dogs and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. When ready, simply add them to the slow cooker with the brown sugar and cook as directed.
What can I use instead of toothpicks?
If you don't have toothpicks, you can use small skewers or even cut-up pieces of pasta to hold the bacon in place. Just ensure they are safe for cooking and won't splinter. Alternatively, you could bake them in a single layer without securing the bacon, but be cautious as they might unravel.
Can I customize the flavor of the brown sugar?
Absolutely! You can mix in spices such as cayenne for heat or cinnamon for warmth. If you want a savory twist, consider incorporating some finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme into the brown sugar mix for added depth. Experimenting with these flavors can give your dish a unique flair.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).