Introduction:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls are the perfect quick and easy appetizer or side dish that everyone will rave about! Imagine biting into a warm, flaky crescent roll bursting with savory garlic butter and gooey, melted cheese. They’re incredibly simple to make, require just a few ingredients, and are ready in under 30 minutes – making them ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or last-minute gatherings.
What makes these crescent rolls so irresistible? It’s the delightful combination of buttery, soft crescent roll dough infused with rich garlic flavor, topped with melty, cheesy goodness. They are incredibly versatile and can be customized with different cheeses, herbs, and seasonings to suit your taste. Prepare to watch these disappear quickly as they are truly addictive!
Get ready to impress with these effortlessly delicious Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To make these mouthwatering Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen! These components come together to create a flavor explosion in every bite. Having everything ready before you begin will make the process even smoother.
The foundation of these rolls is the crescent roll dough. You’ll need 1 can (8 ounces) of crescent roll dough (such as Pillsbury). Pre-made crescent roll dough is the key to the recipe’s ease and speed. Look for the refrigerated seamless dough sheets or the traditional triangle-cut dough – both work wonderfully.
For the rich and savory garlic butter, you will need:
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted – Unsalted butter forms the flavorful base of the garlic butter and adds richness to the rolls.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic is essential for that robust garlic flavor. It infuses the butter beautifully and permeates the rolls.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder enhances the garlic flavor even further and provides a more rounded garlic note.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley – Dried parsley adds a touch of herbaceousness and visual appeal to the garlic butter.
For the cheesy topping that makes these rolls truly irresistible, you’ll need:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend) – Shredded cheese provides the gooey, melted cheese pull that everyone loves. You can use a single type of cheese or a blend for more complex flavor. Mozzarella offers great melt, cheddar adds sharpness, and Monterey Jack provides a mild, creamy melt. Italian blends or Colby Jack are also excellent choices.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and savory flavor that complements the other cheeses and garlic butter perfectly. It also browns nicely in the oven.
HOW TO MAKE “Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls”:
Making Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls is incredibly straightforward and quick! The recipe is broken down into simple steps, from preparing the garlic butter to assembling and baking the rolls to golden perfection. Each stage is designed for ease and maximum flavor payoff.
The process begins with preparing the flavorful garlic butter, which is a simple mix of melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and parsley. This garlic butter is the heart of the flavor for these rolls, infusing them with savory goodness.
Next, the crescent roll dough is unrolled and brushed generously with the prepared garlic butter. This step ensures that every layer of the crescent roll is infused with garlic flavor.
Then, shredded cheese and grated Parmesan cheese are sprinkled generously over the garlic butter-coated dough. The cheese creates the gooey, melty topping that makes these rolls so irresistible.
Finally, the crescent rolls are baked in the oven until golden brown and puffed up, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Baking time is quick, making this a perfect last-minute addition to any meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to guide you through this effortless recipe.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper is recommended for preventing sticking and ensuring easy removal of the baked rolls.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter.
In a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter. Microwave in short intervals or melt over low heat on the stovetop, being careful not to burn.
Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, and dried parsley to the melted butter. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This flavorful garlic butter is the key to delicious rolls.
Step 3: Assemble Crescent Rolls.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate the triangles. If using seamless dough sheet, gently unroll and keep it as one large rectangle. If using triangle-cut dough, you can either keep them as triangles for rolling or gently press perforations to create a rectangle.
Option 1: For Individual Rolled Crescent Rolls:
If using triangle-cut dough, keep the triangles as is. Brush each triangle generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring to coat evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheese and a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each garlic butter-coated triangle.
Starting at the wide end of each triangle, roll up the dough towards the point to form crescent rolls. Gently curve the ends inwards to create the crescent shape, if desired.
Option 2: For Cheesy Garlic Crescent Roll “Sticks” or Flatbread:
If using seamless dough sheet or pressed triangle dough into a rectangle, keep the dough as a large rectangle on the baking sheet.
Brush the entire rectangular dough generously with the garlic butter mixture, coating evenly.
Sprinkle shredded cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire garlic butter-coated dough rectangle.
Use a pizza cutter or knife to slice the dough into strips or squares, depending on your preference for serving size. You can cut into sticks (long strips) or squares. Alternatively, you can leave it as one cheesy flatbread to break apart after baking.
Step 4: Bake the Crescent Rolls.
Place the assembled crescent rolls (rolled crescents, sticks, or flatbread) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart if making individual rolls.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and puffed up, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the type of cheese used. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning, especially if using cheeses that brown quickly like cheddar.
Step 5: Serve.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. Cooling slightly makes them easier to handle but they are best enjoyed warm.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley, chopped, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy these irresistibly cheesy and garlicky crescent rolls! They are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack.
USEFUL TIPS:
To make your Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls even more exceptional, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions can enhance both the flavor and the overall experience of preparing and enjoying these delightful rolls. Let’s explore some valuable insights to refine your baking process.
For extra garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic in addition to minced fresh garlic. Roasted garlic has a milder, sweeter, and more mellow flavor. To use roasted garlic, roast a head of garlic, then squeeze out the roasted cloves and mash them into the melted butter along with the minced garlic.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. A little heat can balance the richness of the butter and cheese and add a pleasant warmth. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
To enhance the herbaceous flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning, dried oregano, or dried thyme to the garlic butter mixture, in addition to or instead of parsley. These herbs complement garlic and cheese beautifully and add depth of flavor.
For a richer flavor, use clarified butter or brown butter (beurre noisette) for the garlic butter. Clarified butter has a pure butter flavor and higher smoke point. Brown butter has a nutty, caramelized flavor that adds a sophisticated touch.
To ensure the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Shred cheese yourself for the best melt and texture.
Don’t overbake the crescent rolls. Bake them just until they are golden brown and puffed up, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Overbaked rolls can become dry and less tender. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
For even baking, ensure the crescent rolls are spaced evenly on the baking sheet. Proper spacing allows for good air circulation and even browning of the rolls.
DETAILS:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
The preparation time for Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls is approximately 15 minutes. This includes the time needed to prepare the garlic butter, unroll the dough, brush with butter, and sprinkle with cheese. Efficient prep work makes this a super quick recipe.
Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
The baking time for these crescent rolls is between 12 to 15 minutes. This short baking time ensures the crescent rolls are perfectly golden brown and puffed up, and the cheese is melted and bubbly without over-browning. Quick baking time makes this a great last-minute recipe.
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
The total time from start to finish for Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls is approximately 27 to 30 minutes. This includes both the prep time and the baking time, making it a remarkably fast and easy recipe option, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick appetizer or side dish.
Yield: 8 crescent rolls (if using triangle dough) or variable sticks/squares if using dough sheet.
This recipe yields approximately 8 crescent rolls if using triangle-cut dough. If using seamless dough sheet, the yield will vary depending on how you cut the dough – sticks or squares. It’s ideal for serving as an appetizer for a small group or as a side dish for a family meal. The yield can be easily adjusted by using more or less crescent roll dough and ingredients if needed.
Category: Appetizer, Side Dish, Bread
This recipe falls into multiple categories: appetizer, side dish, and bread. Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls are versatile and can be served in various culinary contexts, from appetizers at parties to side dishes with dinner, or as a savory bread option.
Method: Baking
The primary cooking method used in this recipe is baking. Baking in the oven at a moderate temperature (375°F/190°C) allows the crescent rolls to bake evenly and develop a golden brown color, flaky texture, and melted cheese topping. Baking is essential for achieving the signature texture and flavor of crescent rolls.
Cuisine: American (Comfort Food)
The cuisine of these rolls is best described as American comfort food. Cheesy garlic bread and crescent rolls are classic American staples, and this recipe combines these elements into a crowd-pleasing and familiar dish. It embodies the spirit of easy, flavorful, and comforting American home cooking.
Diet: Vegetarian
The diet classification for this recipe is vegetarian. It does not contain any meat or fish products, making it suitable for individuals following a vegetarian diet. It can be adapted for vegan diets by using vegan crescent roll dough, vegan butter, and vegan cheese alternatives, though the flavor and texture may be slightly different from the classic recipe.
NOTES:
Serving Suggestions: Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Serve them warm as an appetizer at parties, gatherings, or game day. They make a wonderful side dish for pasta dishes, soups, salads, grilled meats, or roasted chicken. They are also perfect as a simple snack on their own, enjoyed warm from the oven.
Make it Ahead: While Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm, you can prep them ahead of time for easier baking later. Assemble the crescent rolls (brush with garlic butter and top with cheese) and place them on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 hours before baking. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Reheating Leftovers: Leftover cheesy garlic crescent rolls can be reheated, but they are best enjoyed fresh. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy again. You can also reheat them in a microwave for quicker reheating, but they may become softer and less crispy. Microwave reheating is best for softer rolls, while oven reheating is better for crispier texture.
Variation Ideas: Customize your Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls with these delightful variations:
* Herb and Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses (pepper jack, provolone, Gruyere) or add Italian seasoning, dried oregano, rosemary, or thyme to the garlic butter.
* Spicy Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a spicy kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
* Pesto Cheese Crescent Rolls: Spread pesto sauce over the crescent roll dough instead of garlic butter, then top with mozzarella cheese for a pesto-cheese version.
* Spinach Artichoke Cheese Rolls: Spread a thin layer of spinach artichoke dip over the dough before topping with cheese for a richer, more indulgent appetizer.
* Everything Bagel Seasoning Cheese Rolls: After brushing with garlic butter and topping with cheese, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before baking for added flavor and crunch.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I use homemade crescent roll dough?
Yes, absolutely! If you prefer to make your own crescent roll dough from scratch, you can certainly use it in this recipe. Homemade crescent dough will add an extra layer of deliciousness and flakiness to the rolls. Follow your favorite crescent roll dough recipe and then proceed with brushing with garlic butter and topping with cheese as instructed in this recipe. Keep in mind that homemade dough will require significantly more time and effort than using pre-made dough.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
To make vegan Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls, you would need to use vegan crescent roll dough, vegan butter, and vegan cheese. Some brands offer vegan crescent roll dough (check refrigerated dough sections). Use a good quality vegan butter alternative for the garlic butter. For the cheese, use your favorite vegan shredded cheese alternative (such as vegan mozzarella or cheddar) and vegan grated Parmesan alternative. The flavor and texture may vary slightly from the traditional recipe but can still be delicious.
Can I add other toppings besides cheese?
Yes, you can definitely add other toppings to these cheesy garlic crescent rolls to customize them further! Consider adding:
* Cooked and crumbled bacon or prosciutto (for non-vegetarian versions)
* Sliced jalapenos or banana peppers (for a spicy kick)
* Caramelized onions
* Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
* Black olives (sliced)
* Cooked spinach (well-drained)
* Artichoke hearts (chopped)
Experiment with your favorite toppings to create your own signature cheesy garlic crescent rolls.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Making these crescent rolls gluten-free would require finding or making gluten-free crescent roll dough. Gluten-free crescent roll dough is not as widely available as regular crescent dough, but some specialty brands may offer it. If you can find gluten-free crescent roll dough, you can use it in this recipe, ensuring all other ingredients (butter, garlic powder, cheese, etc.) are also certified gluten-free if necessary for strict gluten-free diets. Be aware that gluten-free dough may behave differently than regular dough and may require adjustments to baking time.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
To prevent the cheese from burning on top of the crescent rolls while ensuring the rolls are fully baked, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly but the rolls are not yet golden underneath, you can:
* Reduce the oven temperature slightly for the last few minutes.
* Tent the baking sheet loosely with aluminum foil to shield the cheese from direct heat while allowing the rolls to continue baking underneath.
* Lower the baking sheet to a lower rack in the oven, moving it further away from the top heating element.
* Use cheeses that melt well without browning too quickly, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, or use a blend that includes cheeses with different melting and browning properties.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
To store leftover Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls and maintain their quality, follow these guidelines:
Cool Completely: Allow the cheesy garlic crescent rolls to cool completely to room temperature before storing them. Storing warm rolls can trap moisture and make them soggy.
Airtight Container: Place the cooled crescent rolls in an airtight container. A well-sealed container prevents air and moisture from affecting the rolls’ texture and flavor. Use a container with a tight-fitting lid.
Layering: If you are layering rolls in the container, place a sheet of paper towel between layers to absorb any excess moisture and help maintain their texture. This is especially helpful if the rolls are still slightly warm when stored or if you live in a humid environment.
Room Temperature Storage (Short-Term): For best crispness, store the airtight container of Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls at room temperature for short-term storage, up to 1-2 days. They are best enjoyed within the first day of baking for optimal texture.
Refrigeration (If Needed for Longer Storage): If you need to store them for longer than 1-2 days, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. However, refrigeration may soften the rolls slightly.
Reheating to Restore Crispness: To restore some of the crispness to refrigerated or leftover rolls, reheat them in a preheated oven or toaster oven.
* Oven Reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crescent rolls on a baking sheet and reheat for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy again.
* Toaster Oven Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Microwave reheating is generally not recommended as it will make the rolls softer and potentially soggy. Oven or toaster oven reheating is preferred for maintaining or restoring a crispier texture.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed these Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls, you’ll definitely love these other easy and flavorful bread, cheese, and garlic-centric recipes:
Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Herbs: Soft and fluffy knots of pizza dough baked with garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. A classic Italian-American side dish or appetizer, similar in flavor profile but different in dough texture.
Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread: A classic and simple garlic bread recipe featuring a French baguette slathered with garlic butter and melted cheese. A quintessential comfort food side dish.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Stuffed Crescent Rolls: Crescent rolls filled with a creamy spinach and artichoke dip, baked until golden brown. A more substantial and appetizer version with a creamy filling baked inside.
Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread: A loaf of bread scored and stuffed with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese, baked until golden and pull-apart ready. A fun and interactive appetizer or side dish.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits (Red Lobster Copycat): Soft, buttery, and cheesy biscuits flavored with garlic and herbs, inspired by the famous Red Lobster biscuits. A comforting and flavorful biscuit alternative to crescent rolls.
CONCLUSION
Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls are a testament to the fact that simple ingredients and easy techniques can create truly outstanding results. From the flaky, buttery crescent roll base to the savory garlic butter infusion and the gooey, melted cheese topping, these rolls are designed to deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction with minimal effort. They are the perfect embodiment of comfort food that is both quick to prepare and incredibly delicious to devour.
This recipe beautifully balances ease of preparation with crowd-pleasing flavor, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The readily available ingredients and clear, step-by-step instructions mean that anyone can confidently create these bakery-quality cheesy garlic crescent rolls at home. Whether you are a seasoned chef looking for a quick and reliable appetizer or a beginner baker wanting to impress, you can achieve cheesy garlic crescent roll perfection with this recipe.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the warm, cheesy, garlicky goodness of these Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls masterpiece. Enjoy the effortless cooking process and the immense pleasure of sharing these truly delicious and comforting rolls with your family and friends. This is one recipe that is destined to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire, a beloved classic that you’ll return to again and again for its simple perfection and utterly divine flavor. You’ll be making Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls for every potluck, gathering, and weeknight craving for years to come!
