Mexican Pigs in a Blanket: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Snack
Mexican Pigs in a Blanket brings together the beloved flavors of Mexican cuisine with the nostalgic comfort of a classic snack. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, a fun snack, or even a casual appetizer for gatherings. Ready in under 20 minutes, these bites are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients and Nutrition
Ingredients:
- 1 package flour tortillas
- 8 cheese slices (cut in half)
- 4 tablespoons mild salsa
- 8 hot dogs
- 2 tablespoons refried beans
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for brushing)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 402.3
- Fat: 27.3g
- Saturated Fat: 10.3g
- Cholesterol: 43.4mg
- Sodium: 1201.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 24.9g
- Fiber: 2.9g
- Sugar: 3.2g
- Protein: 14g
Cooking Instructions
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 8
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking once the tortillas are prepared. -
Spread the Refried Beans:
Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin, even layer of refried beans on one side of each tortilla. The refried beans add a creamy texture and rich flavor that complements the other ingredients. -
Add Cheese and Salsa:
Place half of a cheese slice on each tortilla. Follow this by adding a tablespoon of mild salsa on top of the cheese. The salsa brings a zesty kick and a hint of spiciness, balancing the creaminess of the beans and cheese. -
Wrap the Hot Dogs:
Position one hot dog at the edge of each tortilla. Roll the tortilla tightly around the hot dog, jellyroll style, ensuring it’s snug and secure. This wrapping method helps keep all the delicious fillings inside. -
Prepare for Baking:
Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down on a baking sheet. This prevents them from unrolling during baking. Brush each tortilla lightly with vegetable oil. The oil helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven, giving them a golden-brown finish. -
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. You’re looking for a crisp exterior and melted cheese inside.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Mexican Pigs in a Blanket with a variety of dipping sauces. Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are excellent choices that enhance the Mexican-inspired flavors. For a complete meal, pair them with a side salad or some tortilla chips.
Variations and Tips
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors to your snack.
- Spicy Kick: If you prefer a spicier version, use a hot salsa or add some sliced jalapeños before rolling up the tortillas.
- Healthy Twist: For a lighter version, use whole wheat tortillas and turkey or chicken hot dogs. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat variety.
Kid-Friendly Appeal
Kids love these Mexican Pigs in a Blanket because they are fun to eat and packed with familiar flavors. This recipe is an excellent way to introduce young ones to the tastes of Mexican cuisine without overwhelming their palates.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These tasty treats are versatile enough for any occasion. They make a fantastic lunchbox addition, a quick after-school snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties. Their ease of preparation means you can whip them up anytime you’re in need of a quick and satisfying bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 17 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
- Flavorful: The combination of refried beans, cheese, salsa, and hot dogs wrapped in a crispy tortilla is simply irresistible.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Fun for All Ages: Both kids and adults will enjoy these delightful snacks.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Pigs in a Blanket are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring a new twist to a classic dish. Their simplicity, combined with the rich and savory ingredients, makes them a favorite for any meal or occasion. Enjoy these tasty bites hot from the oven, and share the love with family and friends.
