Hog Pogs are one of those old-school party appetizers that never go out of style. Simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, these savory bites combine crusty French bread with a creamy, sausage-packed topping that turns golden and bubbly in the oven. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, Hog Pogs are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to every time you need something quick, crowd-pleasing, and comforting.
Perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, potlucks, or casual family get-togethers, this recipe delivers big flavor without any fuss. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a staple on your appetizer rotation.
Why This Recipe Works
Hog Pogs shine because of their balance of textures and flavors. The French bread provides a crisp, sturdy base, while the Italian sausage adds rich, savory depth. Cream cheese smooths everything out, creating a spread that bakes up creamy on the inside and lightly crisp on top. A touch of Parmesan brings saltiness and a nutty finish that ties it all together.
Best of all, everything bakes quickly in the oven, making this recipe ideal when you need something reliable and fast.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How to Make Hog Pogs
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easy.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Italian sausage and softened cream cheese. Mix until the ingredients are fully blended and smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Spread a thin, even layer of the sausage mixture over each slice of French bread. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, keeping them in a single layer. If desired, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for added flavor and browning.
Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and the edges of the bread begin to turn golden. Switch the oven to broil and broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until the tops are lightly browned and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Hog Pogs are best served warm, straight from the oven. They pair perfectly with simple sides like pickles, olives, or a light green salad to balance the richness. For parties, they can be cut into smaller portions to make them easier to grab and enjoy.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the bread too much.
Final Thoughts
Hog Pogs prove that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make something truly memorable. This classic appetizer is easy, comforting, and endlessly reliable—exactly the kind of recipe every home cook should keep on hand. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something savory, these baked bites deliver every time.
