There is something irresistibly delightful about this Ham and Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups Recipe that makes it perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family snack to a festive party appetizer. Flaky, buttery crescent dough wraps around layers of savory ham and melted cheddar, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a simple but stunning way to elevate store-bought ingredients into something truly special. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds, because these roll-ups hit all the right flavor notes with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of making this recipe. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s providing the perfect flaky texture or the rich, cheesy filling that makes these roll-ups so satisfying.
- Crescent roll dough: The buttery, flaky base that forms the perfect wrap and browns beautifully in the oven.
- Deli ham slices: Tender and savory, two slices per roll-up ensure a hearty, flavorful bite every time.
- Cheddar cheese slices: Sharp and melty, cheddar adds a creamy richness that complements the ham.
- Melted butter: Brushing this on top helps the rolls brown and adds a depth of flavor.
- Garlic powder: A little sprinkle infuses the rolls with subtle aromatic warmth.
- Dried parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch and a pop of color to make these roll-ups as pretty as they are delicious.
How to Make Ham and Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures it’s ready to bake your crescent roll-ups immediately, setting the stage for that beautiful golden finish. While the oven warms, line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Unroll your crescent dough and gently separate each piece. You want to maintain some structure, as this dough is going to cradle your ham and cheese perfectly. The dough’s light, buttery texture will puff up delightfully during baking.
Step 3: Layer the Ham and Cheese
Place two slices of deli ham on each triangle of dough, leaving some space at the edges so it can seal properly. Then, add one slice of cheddar cheese on top of the ham. This layering ensures every bite delivers the ideal balance of savory meat and melty cheese.
Step 4: Roll Them Up
Beginning with the widest part of the crescent dough, carefully roll each piece up, making sure the ham and cheese stay tucked inside. This rolling technique helps create those beautiful, crescent-shaped pockets of flavor that everyone loves.
Step 5: Place on Baking Sheet
Set your rolled crescents on the prepared baking sheet with the seam side down. This helps keep them sealed and prevents the filling from escaping during baking.
Step 6: Brush with Butter Mixture
Combine the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this fragrant mixture generously over each roll-up. This step is what gives the crust its incredible golden color and adds that subtle boost of flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the tops are beautifully golden, and the cheese inside has melted perfectly. The aroma at this point is simply irresistible!
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the crescent roll-ups from the oven and give them a 5-minute rest. This little pause helps the cheese set slightly, making them easier to handle and even more enjoyable to eat.
How to Serve Ham and Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a bit of freshly chopped parsley or chives over the warm roll-ups. A drizzle of honey mustard or a side of tangy dipping sauce can also elevate the flavors and make the presentation pop.
Side Dishes
These roll-ups pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a fresh fruit platter to balance the richness. A bowl of tomato soup or a creamy coleslaw also makes for a comforting and well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Ham and Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups Recipe on a wooden board or a colorful platter for a rustic look. For parties, serve them with little cocktail picks for easy grabbing. You can even cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces for a fun finger-food option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it convenient to enjoy this tasty treat later.
Freezing
You can freeze these roll-ups before baking for up to 2 months. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving when possible to retain that delightful flaky texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese instead of cheddar?
Absolutely! Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack all work beautifully. Choose a cheese that melts well and matches your flavor preference to customize your roll-ups.
Is it necessary to brush the rolls with butter?
While not mandatory, brushing with the butter mixture enhances browning, adds flavor, and gives the crescent roll-ups a lovely finish that you won’t want to miss.
Can I add extra fillings like vegetables?
Definitely! Thinly sliced bell peppers, spinach, or caramelized onions can add fresh flavor and a bit of crunch. Just be mindful not to overstuff, so the dough seals properly.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure to leave a margin around the dough edges when placing your fillings and roll the dough tightly. Pinching the ends well will help keep everything inside.
What occasions are these roll-ups good for?
This Ham and Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups Recipe is perfect for casual snacks, brunches, game days, or special gatherings. They’re quick to make and sure to please a crowd with their classic flavors.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Ham and Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups Recipe enough. It’s such a joyful treat to make and share, effortlessly combining simple ingredients into something truly addictive. Whether you’re feeding family, treating guests, or just craving a comforting snack, these roll-ups will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Give them a try, and prepare to fall in love bite after buttery, cheesy bite!
Print
Ham and Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll-ups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Ham Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups are a quick and delicious snack or appetizer featuring tender ham and melted cheddar cheese wrapped in buttery crescent dough, baked to golden perfection and seasoned with garlic and parsley.
Ingredients
Roll-Ups
- 1 tube crescent roll dough (8-count)
- 16 deli ham slices
- 8 cheddar cheese slices
Topping
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the roll-ups.
- Prepare Crescent Dough: Roll out each piece of crescent dough to slightly flatten and expand it.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Lay two slices of deli ham on each flattened crescent dough piece, leaving a margin of dough on both ends. Place one slice of cheddar cheese on top of the ham.
- Roll Up Dough: Start from the widest end of each crescent piece and carefully roll up the dough, fully encasing the ham and cheese inside.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled crescents spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley, then brush this mixture over the tops of each rolled crescent.
- Bake: Bake the roll-ups in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the roll-ups to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the cheese set slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or Swiss for variation.
- Ensure not to overfill the crescents to prevent leaking during baking.
- Serving the roll-ups warm enhances the flavor and texture.
- Use fresh parsley if available for a brighter herb flavor.
- For a crispier crust, you can brush the dough with an egg wash before baking instead of butter.
