This study determined temperature (50°, 60°, 70° and 80°C) and time (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0h) factors that enhanced the water binding of pork skin connective tissue (PCT); the functionality of added water (AW, 100–600%, w/w) PCT gels; and attributes of bologna containing 10‐30% addition of 100–600% AW PCT gels. Heating (70°C) PCT increased water binding. Gels (100–600% AW) were formed by heating PCT (70°C) for 30 min. Higher AW levels increased (p < 0.05) gel moisture content, while decreasing fat, melting points, collagen content, and hardness. Addition of PCT gels in bologna decreased (p < 0.05) hardness and increased juiciness, indicating the potential of PCT gels as water binders and texture‐modifying agents.