If you’re searching for the ultimate party starter or a cozy snack, look no further than Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls. Picture this: buttery, flaky crescent dough hugging a dreamy, creamy filling of crab and cheese, with a hint of zesty lemon and just enough garlic to make your tastebuds dance. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself on a quiet evening, this recipe is pure comfort wrapped up in golden pastry—and it comes together in a flash!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls is that every ingredient is chosen to maximize flavor, texture, and that irresistible pull-apart appeal. Each component has its own special part to play, so don’t skip anything if you want maximum deliciousness!
- Crescent roll dough: This is your shortcut to flaky, golden perfection—no fussing with homemade pastry required!
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese makes the filling ultra-creamy and helps all the flavors meld together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds melty, cheesy richness—feel free to use your favorite cheese blend for extra flair.
- Cooked crab meat: The star of the show, providing sweet, delicate seafood flavor; imitation crab works beautifully if you’re in a pinch.
- Mayonnaise: Gives the filling a silky texture and a subtle tang that balances the richness.
- Dijon mustard (optional): A little goes a long way to add gentle heat and depth—totally optional but highly recommended!
- Lemon juice: Just a splash brightens up the whole filling and keeps it from feeling too heavy.
- Garlic powder: For savory warmth and that classic garlic kick.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the flavors and adds a savory undertone.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste to make all the other flavors pop.
- Melted butter (optional): Brushed on top before baking for extra golden color and a hint of richness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkling on top brings color and a fresh, herby note to the finished rolls.
How to Make Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first—get your oven ready for magic! Preheat to 375°F (190°C) so the crescent rolls bake up perfectly golden and puffed. Don’t forget to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat; it makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
This is where all the flavor happens. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crab meat, mayo, Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly combined, then season with salt and pepper to bring out all those savory, tangy notes. The filling should be creamy and well blended—perfect for spooning onto the dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Rolls
Now it’s time to unroll that beautiful crescent dough. Gently separate it into triangles along the perforated lines and lay them out on your prepared baking sheet. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can lightly stretch each triangle to make more room for the filling!
Step 4: Fill the Crescent Rolls
Spoon a generous mound of your crab and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each dough triangle. Then, fold the edges over the filling and roll up tightly, sealing the ends to keep all that goodness inside. You can stick with the classic crescent shape or fold them into little pockets—either way, they’ll be delicious.
Step 5: Bake the Crescent Rolls
For that irresistible golden finish, brush the tops with a bit of melted butter. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the rolls are beautifully puffed and deep golden brown. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible!
Step 6: Serve
Let the Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls cool for a minute, then garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Serve them warm while the cheese is gooey and the crab is tender—these are guaranteed to disappear fast!
How to Serve Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
Garnishes
For a touch of color and freshness, sprinkle your Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls with chopped fresh parsley or even a little dill. A tiny squeeze of fresh lemon over the platter just before serving can also work wonders, brightening up the flavors and adding a gourmet touch.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine as an appetizer, but they’re also fantastic paired with a crisp green salad, a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or even a platter of roasted veggies. The rich, savory filling plays well with lighter or tangier sides, so don’t be afraid to mix and match according to your mood or occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls to the next level by serving them on a rustic wooden board, nestled alongside lemon wedges and a small bowl of aioli or cocktail sauce for dipping. Or try slicing them in half and arranging them on a platter for easy grab-and-go bites at parties. They look as good as they taste!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have a few rolls left, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, and they’re just as tempting (if not more so) the next day.
Freezing
Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are totally freezer-friendly. Arrange cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, reheat your rolls in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the pastry is crisp. Avoid the microwave if you can; the oven keeps them perfectly flaky and delicious.
FAQs
Can I substitute imitation crab for real crab?
Absolutely! Imitation crab works beautifully in this recipe, offering a similar texture and mild flavor. It’s also budget-friendly and easy to find, so use whatever suits your needs best.
Can I make Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls a few hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven—add a minute or two to the baking time if they’re cold.
What types of cheese work best?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to get creative! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp Swiss will all melt nicely and pair well with crab. Try a blend for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Be sure not to overfill each crescent, and seal the edges well as you roll them up. Pinching the ends closed can help keep all that delicious crab and cheese inside where it belongs.
Are Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls good served cold?
They’re definitely best served warm, but they’re still tasty at room temperature or even straight from the fridge. If you’re packing them for a picnic or lunchbox, they’ll hold up just fine!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a party, whipping up a quick appetizer, or simply craving something warm and cheesy, Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are pure comfort in every bite. I hope you’ll give them a try and share the joy with friends and family—they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen, too!
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Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make crab and cheese filled crescent rolls, perfect as an appetizer or snack. These golden, flaky rolls are stuffed with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, crab meat, and savory seasonings, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Dough
- 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough (or 1 tube of crescent roll dough)
Filling
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat (imitation crab works as well)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Brushing and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing, optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Separate the dough into individual triangles along the perforated lines.
- Fill the Crescent Rolls: Spoon a generous amount of the crab and cheese mixture onto the center of each crescent dough triangle. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and roll tightly, ensuring the ends are sealed. You may also fold the dough into pocket or crescent shapes as preferred.
- Bake the Crescent Rolls: Optionally, brush the tops of the filled crescent rolls with melted butter to enhance flavor and promote a golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Notes
- Use imitation crab if fresh crab meat is unavailable; it works well for this recipe.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—add more lemon juice or mustard for extra tang.
- The crescent roll dough can be substituted with puff pastry for a flakier crust.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven to retain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crescent roll
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
