Pigs in a blanket are a beloved party favorite, known for their irresistible combination of flaky pastry and juicy mini sausages. Whether served as an appetizer, game-day snack, or party platter centerpiece, they’re made even better with the perfect dipping sauce. The right sauce can enhance the savory flavor, add a little spice, sweetness, or creaminess, and turn a simple bite into something unforgettable. From classic mustard to gourmet cheese blends, choosing the ideal pigs in a blanket dipping sauce is key to elevating this nostalgic treat to new levels.
Why Dipping Sauce Matters
Complementing Flavors
While pigs in a blanket are tasty on their own, dipping sauces provide contrast and excitement. A tangy mustard can cut through the richness, while a creamy cheese sauce offers indulgent comfort. The right dip balances the flavors and textures, adding dimension to every bite.
Customizing the Experience
With a selection of sauces, guests can customize their snack to suit their tastes. Whether they prefer spicy, sweet, or savory, offering a range of options makes pigs in a blanket more versatile and enjoyable for everyone.
Classic Dipping Sauces
Yellow Mustard
The traditional go-to for pigs in a blanket. Yellow mustard offers a sharp tanginess that cuts through the buttery pastry and meaty sausage.
Ketchup
Simple, sweet, and familiar, ketchup is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s especially popular with kids and works well for casual gatherings.
Barbecue Sauce
Smoky and sweet barbecue sauce adds bold flavor and richness. It pairs particularly well with beef or smoked sausages inside the blanket.
Creative Dipping Sauce Ideas
Honey Mustard Sauce
A mix of sweetness and tang, honey mustard is smooth, balanced, and loved by both adults and kids.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
Whisk together all ingredients until smooth and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Spicy Sriracha Mayo
This sauce adds a creamy heat and a modern twist. Ideal for spice lovers.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Pinch of garlic powder
Stir until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Perfect for dipping, a warm cheese sauce creates a satisfying contrast to the flaky pastry.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux, slowly add milk, and cook until thickened. Stir in cheese until melted and smooth. Serve warm.
Ranch Dressing
Cool and creamy, ranch dressing is a great option for guests who enjoy a mild, herby dip.
Maple Dijon Sauce
This sauce combines the bold flavor of mustard with the sweetness of maple syrup, offering a complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and refined.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Mix and chill before serving. It’s especially good with turkey or chicken sausages.
International Inspiration
Sweet Chili Sauce
This Thai condiment adds sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. It’s great with chicken sausages or vegetarian versions of pigs in a blanket.
Tzatziki Sauce
A Greek yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It provides a fresh, cooling contrast to the warm, salty pastry.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated cucumber (squeezed dry)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chopped dill
- Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients and let rest in the refrigerator before serving.
Chimichurri Sauce
This Argentine herb sauce is oil-based with parsley, garlic, and vinegar. It’s punchy and bright, perfect for adding freshness to heavier appetizers.
Tips for Serving Dipping Sauces
Use Small Bowls or Ramekins
Place dipping sauces in individual bowls so guests can try different flavors. Small containers also help keep sauces tidy and reduce waste.
Label the Sauces
If you’re serving multiple options, label each sauce to avoid confusion. Use simple name cards or write directly on disposable cups.
Keep Hot Sauces Warm
Sauces like cheese dip should be kept warm in a mini slow cooker or a small insulated container. Reheat gently if it thickens too much.
Chill Creamy Dips
Mayonnaise or yogurt-based dips should be refrigerated until serving and kept cool during longer events to maintain food safety and taste.
Pairing Sauces with Sausage Types
Beef Sausages
- Barbecue sauce
- Cheese sauce
- Sriracha mayo
Pork Sausages
- Honey mustard
- Classic ketchup
- Maple Dijon
Chicken or Turkey Sausages
- Tzatziki sauce
- Sweet chili sauce
- Ranch dressing
Vegetarian or Plant-Based Sausages
- Chimichurri
- Spicy mayo
- Vegan cheese sauce
Making Dips Ahead of Time
Storage Tips
Most dipping sauces can be prepared a day or two ahead of time and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to blend and saves time on the day of your event.
Reheating Instructions
Creamy or cheesy sauces should be reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to avoid separation.
Pigs in a blanket are a timeless snack that’s simple to prepare and always well-received. But it’s the dipping sauces that truly bring the experience to life, offering flavor, fun, and a sense of customization. Whether you stick with classics like mustard and ketchup or explore new favorites like sriracha mayo, cheese sauce, or tzatziki, your guests will appreciate the added touch. A thoughtful selection of dipping sauces not only enhances taste but also turns a basic appetizer into something special that everyone will remember and ask for again.