Description: These Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups are the perfect quick and easy snack, lunch, or appetizer! Flaky crescent rolls are filled with savory ham and sharp cheddar cheese, brushed with a flavorful garlic butter, and baked to golden-brown perfection. They are incredibly simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count)
- 8 slices cooked ham
- 8 sticks/slices sharp cheddar cheese (about ½ inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Optional: Dijon mustard, for spreading
- Optional: Everything bagel seasoning
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the roll-ups from sticking and make cleanup much easier. Parchment paper is preferred, but aluminum foil lightly greased with cooking spray will also work. Preheat for at least 10 minutes to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean, flat surface. Gently separate the dough into individual triangles along the pre-cut perforations. Be mindful as you do this; the dough can be delicate, and you don’t want to tear it.
Step 3: Lay one slice of ham and one piece of cheddar cheese on the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. If desired, you can spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the dough before adding the ham and cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Don’t overload with ingredients; ensure the filling stays compact enough to roll properly.
Step 4: Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up each triangle towards the point. Gently stretch the point and tuck it underneath the roll to secure it. Make sure the seam is sealed to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking. Place the assembled roll-ups on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
Step 5: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Brush the tops of each roll-up generously with the garlic butter mixture. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a delicious, savory flavor. You can also sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning at this point.
Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. The bake time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so monitor the color closely.
Step 7: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. This allows the cheese to set a bit, preventing them from being too messy to handle. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups are incredibly versatile and satisfying. They are a simple and quick recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The combination of flaky crescent rolls, savory ham, and melted cheddar cheese is always a hit. Plus, the garlic butter adds a delicious touch that elevates the flavor profile. Kids and adults alike love them, making them the ideal appetizer, snack, or light meal. They can be easily customized with different cheeses, meats, or seasonings to suit your taste preferences. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it a go-to option for a last-minute snack or unexpected guests. The combination of salty ham and sharp cheddar encased in a buttery, flaky crust is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve them warm as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a satisfying and easy-to-eat meal.
- Enjoy them as a quick and tasty snack any time of day.
- Pair them with a simple salad or soup for a complete meal.
- Serve with a side of Dijon mustard, honey mustard, or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Arrange on a platter garnished with fresh parsley for an elegant presentation.
- Serve alongside other appetizers such as veggies and dip, cheese and crackers, or mini quiches for a varied selection.
- Perfect for game day parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ham and cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
- Make sure the crescent rolls are fresh for the flakiest texture.
- Don’t overfill the roll-ups to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking.
- Brush the tops generously with garlic butter for a golden-brown finish and enhanced flavor.
- Keep a close eye on the roll-ups while baking to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, mozzarella, or Gruyere.
- Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or flavored cream cheese on the dough before adding the ham and cheese for extra decadence.
- Use a pizza cutter to easily slice the roll-ups into smaller bite-sized pieces.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 12-15 minutes Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Note: The following values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 220-250 per roll-up
- Protein: 10-12 grams
- Sodium: 400-500 mg
Conclusion:
These Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that will surely become a favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a warm, flaky, and flavorful snack that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick appetizer, a simple lunch, or a satisfying snack, these roll-ups are the perfect solution. The combination of savory ham, sharp cheddar, and flaky crescent rolls is simply irresistible, and the garlic butter adds a delicious touch that elevates the flavor profile. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a batch of these delicious Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups!
Questions and Answers:
- Q1: Can I use different types of cheese?
- A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, mozzarella, Gruyere, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the flavor of the ham.
- Q2: Can I prepare these roll-ups ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent the dough from drying out. Add the garlic butter just before baking for the best results.
- Q3: Can I freeze these roll-ups?
- A: While you can freeze them, the texture of the crescent rolls may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze them, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw completely before baking.
- Q4: What can I serve with these roll-ups?
- A: These roll-ups are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides such as a simple salad, soup, or a dipping sauce like Dijon mustard, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
- Q5: Can I add vegetables to these roll-ups?
- A: Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté the vegetables before adding them to the roll-ups to remove excess moisture.
