Introduction

Have you ever tried Buffalo Ranch Pigs In A Blanket? These delicious bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of spicy buffalo chicken and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped up in a warm and flaky blanket of pastry. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or looking for a fun appetizer for your next party, these Buffalo Ranch Pigs In A Blanket are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a platter of these tasty appetizers ready to serve in no time. Secondly, the combination of spicy buffalo chicken and cool ranch dressing is absolutely addictive. The flavors complement each other perfectly, creating a mouthwatering taste sensation. And finally, these pigs in a blanket are versatile. They make a great snack or appetizer for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to formal events.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed

– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce

– 1/4 cup ranch dressing

– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Mix well to ensure all the chicken is coated in the sauce.

3. Roll out the puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into small squares, approximately 2 inches by 2 inches.

4. Place a spoonful of the buffalo chicken mixture onto each pastry square. Top with a drizzle of ranch dressing and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Fold the corners of each pastry square over the filling, creating a little bundle. Press the edges together to seal the pastry.

6. Arrange the pigs in a blanket on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

7. Brush the tops of the pastry with the beaten egg wash, which will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden.

9. Remove from the oven and let the pigs in a blanket cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips for Success

– Make sure your puff pastry is properly thawed before using it. If it’s still frozen, it won’t roll out properly and may tear.

– If you like things extra spicy, feel free to add more buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture.

– For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with cooked and crumbled tofu or tempeh.

– If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.

– Serve these pigs in a blanket with extra ranch dressing and buffalo sauce on the side for dipping.

Variations and Substitutions

There are endless ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

– Instead of buffalo chicken, you can use BBQ pulled pork or shredded beef for a different flavor profile.

– If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, you can substitute it with blue cheese dressing or sour cream.

– Add some heat by sprinkling chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes on top of the filling before folding the pastry.

– For a milder version, you can use mild buffalo sauce or even a sweet chili sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Ranch Pigs In A Blanket are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions:

– Serve with a side of crunchy celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic buffalo chicken experience.

– Pair with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad to balance out the spicy flavors.

– Serve with a selection of dipping sauces, such as blue cheese dressing, ranch dressing, or even a tangy BBQ sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these pigs in a blanket ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the pigs in a blanket a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just make sure to brush them with the egg wash right before baking.

Q: Can I freeze these pigs in a blanket?

A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked pigs in a blanket. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I use a different type of pastry?

A: Yes, you can use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry if you prefer. The result will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Ranch Pigs In A Blanket are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that are perfect for any occasion. With their spicy buffalo chicken filling and flaky pastry blanket, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, give this recipe a try and watch them disappear in no time!