Nothing beats the aroma of buttery, golden crescent rolls baking in the oven, especially when they’re stuffed with savory ham and melted cheddar cheese. I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic weeknight when I needed something quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to please the whole family. These roll-ups have since become my go-to solution for unexpected guests, game day snacks, and those moments when comfort food is the only answer.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Roll-Ups
These ham and cheddar crescent roll-ups represent everything wonderful about simple, satisfying food. First, they require minimal prep time and use ingredients you likely already have in your refrigerator. Additionally, the combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Moreover, these roll-ups are incredibly versatile and work equally well as appetizers, lunch, or even a light dinner. The garlicky parsley butter adds an elegant touch that elevates them beyond ordinary convenience food. Best of all, they bake in just 12 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining or satisfying sudden cravings.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 12 Minutes
- Total Time: 22 Minutes
- Servings: 8 roll-ups
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
Essential Ingredients
Pastry Base
- 1 package chilled crescent dough (makes 8 triangles)
Savory Filling
- 8 cheddar cheese slices (or your favorite cheese)
- 16 pieces deli ham (about 8 ounces)
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Getting Started
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking from the moment your roll-ups go in.
Step 2: Next, open the crescent roll package and carefully separate it into 8 individual triangles. Handle the dough gently to prevent tearing.
Assembly Process
Step 3: Place 1 cheese slice on each dough triangle, then stack 2 pieces of ham on top. Leave some empty space at the edges to prevent filling from leaking out during baking.
Step 4: Starting from the wide end, roll each dough piece snugly around the ham and cheese filling. The key is to roll tightly enough to contain the filling but not so tight that the dough tears.
Preparation for Baking
Step 5: Arrange the rolled crescents seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, dried parsley, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined and fragrant.
Baking to Perfection
Step 7: Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the top of each roll-up. This creates that beautiful golden color and adds incredible flavor.
Step 8: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crescents are golden brown and crispy. Finally, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to prevent burns and let the cheese set slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile roll-ups work beautifully in numerous settings. For casual gatherings, serve them warm alongside mustard or ranch dressing for dipping. During more formal occasions, arrange them on a platter with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
Furthermore, they pair wonderfully with soup for a complete meal. Try serving them with tomato soup, potato leek soup, or a fresh green salad for a satisfying lunch combination.
Creative Variations to Try
Cheese Alternatives
While cheddar is classic, Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack cheese create delicious variations. Each brings its own unique flavor profile to complement the ham.
Meat Substitutions
Turkey, roast beef, or even crispy bacon can replace the ham for different flavor experiences. Vegetarians can substitute with roasted vegetables or cream cheese with herbs.
Herb and Spice Options
Experiment with different herb combinations in your butter mixture. Fresh chives, dried oregano, or Italian seasoning all create delightful variations on the classic recipe.
Sweet and Savory Twist
For an interesting variation, add a thin slice of apple or a small amount of honey mustard to each roll-up before baking.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparation Strategies
These roll-ups can be assembled up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking. Cover them with plastic wrap to prevent the dough from drying out.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, assemble the roll-ups and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Guidelines
Leftover roll-ups reheat beautifully in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy rather than crispy.
Important Notes
Allowing the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes after baking serves two important purposes. First, it prevents burns from the hot melted cheese, and second, it gives the cheese time to firm up slightly for better texture and easier eating.
Additionally, using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet instead.
Essential Tools:
- Pastry brush
- Small mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Sharp knife (if needed)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of store-bought? A: Absolutely! Homemade crescent dough works wonderfully, though it may require slightly different handling. The baking time should remain the same.
Q: What if I don’t have a pastry brush? A: You can use a spoon to drizzle the butter mixture over the roll-ups, or even use your fingers to spread it gently. The key is getting that buttery coating on top.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out? A: Make sure to leave space at the edges when adding filling, and don’t overfill each triangle. Rolling from the wide end and placing seam-side down also helps contain the filling.
Q: Can I add vegetables to these roll-ups? A: Yes! Thinly sliced bell peppers, onions, or spinach work well. Just make sure any vegetables are pre-cooked and well-drained to prevent soggy pastry.
Q: Why do my roll-ups turn out soggy? A: Soggy roll-ups usually result from too much filling, wet ingredients, or not baking long enough. Ensure your oven is fully preheated and bake until golden brown.
Q: How long will leftovers keep? A: Cooked roll-ups will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.
Allergy Information: Contains gluten and dairy. Crescent dough may contain soy. Always check package labels for specific allergen information.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 275
- Total Fat: 15g
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 14g