Pigs In The Blanket
Pigs In The Blanket offers a hearty combination of seasoned ground beef, sausage, rice, and onions wrapped in cabbage leaves. Slow-cooked in tomato juice and ketchup, this comforting dish features bold flavors and tender textures, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings that enjoy savory, filling fare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, sausage, chopped onions, and seasoning together.
- Add milk and eggs to the mixture and combine well.
- Stir in the rice until evenly mixed.
- Form the mixture into balls.
- Wrap each ball in a cabbage leaf and secure with toothpicks.
- Place the wrapped balls in a baking dish and pour tomato juice and ketchup over them.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 2 hours until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and turkey or substituting the sausage with a spicier variety. If you prefer, use cooked quinoa instead of rice for a healthier option. Ensure you season the mixture well; tasting before forming the balls can help. You can also add herbs like parsley or dill for freshness. Pair with a side salad for a light meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pigs in the blanket hot, drizzled with extra ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. They pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. This dish is a hearty option for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pigs in the blanket in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be cautious as they may become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pigs In The Blanket contains roughly 453 calories, with 14g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1693mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using a plant-based meat substitute or a combination of mushrooms and lentils for a hearty filling.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare ahead, you can mix the meat and rice filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the pigs in the blanket and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate. Bake them the next day; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pigs in the blanket before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding additional time to ensure they are heated through.
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).