Description
Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls
Ingredients:
1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup cream cheese, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Assemble the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture at the wide end of each triangle. Roll the dough tightly, starting from the wide end toward the tip.
3. Brush with Butter: Arrange the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each roll with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and poppy seeds or sesame seeds if desired.
4. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffy.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve warm as a snack or appetizer.
#CheesyGarlicRolls #EasyBaking
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect rolls every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling. Combine it thoroughly with the mozzarella and minced garlic. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the crescent dough and carefully separate it into triangles along the perforations. Place a heaping tablespoon of the cheese mixture at the wide end of each triangle. Gently stretch the dough slightly as you roll from the wide end to the point, tucking the sides in to seal the filling. Arrange the rolls on the baking sheet with space between them. Brush generously with melted butter and sprinkle with seasoning. Bake on the middle rack for 12-15 minutes, watching for a deep golden brown color.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls are perfect served warm from the oven. For an appetizer, pair them with a side of warm marinara or creamy ranch dressing for dipping. As a side dish, they complement a bowl of tomato soup, a fresh garden salad, or a hearty pasta dish beautifully. For a brunch twist, serve alongside scrambled eggs and bacon. To elevate them further, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a light drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil right before serving.
How-to Summary
In brief: Mix cream cheese, mozzarella, and garlic for the filling. Fill and roll crescent dough triangles from the wide end. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with seasoning, and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until golden. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the rolls, cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 1-2 minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Italian cheese blend work well. For the creamy base, full-fat ricotta can substitute for cream cheese in a pinch.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
My filling is leaking out during baking. How can I prevent this? Ensure you are not overfilling the triangles. Use a heaping tablespoon, not more. Also, make sure to seal the dough tightly by pinching the ends after rolling.
Can I freeze these rolls? Yes, after baking and cooling, freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a chunky, difficult-to-spread filling.
- Overfilling the dough triangles, causing the cheese to ooze out and burn during baking.
- Not sealing the rolls properly, allowing the filling to escape from the sides.
- Baking on an unlined or ungreased sheet, which can cause sticking and difficult cleanup.
- Overbaking, which results in dry, tough rolls instead of soft, fluffy ones.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls are the ultimate easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat. With a simple filling and convenient dough, they transform into an impressive appetizer or side dish in minutes. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve perfectly golden, cheesy, and flavorful rolls every time. Their versatility in serving and make-ahead potential makes them a reliable recipe for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings.