If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that brings together the rich flavors of seafood and cheese wrapped in flaky pastry, this Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender crescent rolls packed with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and succulent crab meat, all seasoned to perfection and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a cozy snack, these crescent rolls offer that perfect balance of comfort and fancy flair, making every bite irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the buttery flakiness of the crescent dough to the creamy, savory filling, every element plays a crucial role in making this dish unforgettable.
- Crescent roll dough (8 oz can or 1 tube): Acts as the light and flaky vessel that holds all the delectable fillings snugly inside.
- Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Adds a luscious, creamy texture that binds everything together perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a sharp, melty contrast that complements the crab beautifully.
- Cooked crab meat (1/2 cup): The star protein that brings a fresh, briny sweetness; imitation crab works well too for an easy alternative.
- Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): Provides moisture and richness, ensuring the filling stays juicy and flavorful.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon, optional): Gives a subtle, tangy kick that lifts the filling without overpowering it.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the flavors and adds a hint of freshness that balances the richness.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the filling with a warm, savory depth.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the overall savory notes with a mild sweetness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring harmony and accentuate all the other flavors.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon, optional): For brushing on top to achieve that gorgeous golden color and extra buttery taste.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal aroma as a lovely finishing touch.
How to Make Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to get it nice and hot so your crescent rolls bake evenly and develop that perfect golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Crab and Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard if you’re using it, lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything thoroughly until it forms a creamy, cohesive mixture. This filling is where all the magic happens, so give it a good mix and taste for seasoning with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Unroll the crescent dough gently onto your prepared baking sheet. You’ll see perforations dividing the dough into triangles — separate these carefully, as each one will become a delightful little package of crab and cheese goodness.
Step 4: Fill and Shape the Crescent Rolls
Place a generous spoonful of your crab and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each dough triangle. Then, fold the dough over the filling and roll it tightly toward the narrow point, ensuring the ends are sealed well so the filling doesn’t escape while baking. Feel free to experiment with folding shapes — some like a classic crescent roll curl, while others prefer folding the dough into a small pocket.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch with Butter and Bake
If you want that extra golden hue and buttery richness, brush the tops of your filled crescent rolls with melted butter. Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and beautifully golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the crescent rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, not only for a burst of color but also for a hint of bright, herbal flavor that complements the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A simple scatter of freshly chopped parsley or a light drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil makes the perfect garnish, enhancing both the dish’s visual appeal and its fresh flavor profile without overpowering the creamy filling.
Side Dishes
Serve these crescent rolls with a crisp garden salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the richness of the filling. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of tomato soup for a cozy meal that hits all the right comfort food notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the crab and cheese-filled crescent rolls in a circular pattern around a small bowl of cocktail sauce or a zesty aioli dip. You can also skewer a couple together for bite-size appetizers that look as good as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will keep the crescent rolls fresh and prevent the filling from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked filled crescent rolls by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, freezing until solid, and then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked straight from frozen — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through and the pastry regains its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab instead of imitation crab meat?
Absolutely! Fresh crab can elevate the flavor even more, offering a sweeter, more delicate seafood taste. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and drained well before mixing it into the filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with plant-based alternatives. Just be mindful that the texture and flavor will change slightly, but it should still be delicious.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the filling?
Definitely! Fresh dill, chives, or even a pinch of Old Bay seasoning can complement the crab beautifully. Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences.
What can I serve with these crescent rolls for a full meal?
Pair them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup to round out the meal. The rolls themselves are quite filling thanks to the creamy crab and cheese mixture.
Can these crescent rolls be made ahead of time and baked later?
You can prepare and fill the rolls ahead, then keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just bring them to room temperature briefly before placing them in the oven for the best results.
Final Thoughts
This Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe has been a total crowd-pleaser every time I’ve made it, whether for casual family dinners or festive gatherings. It’s such a satisfying way to enjoy seafood wrapped in golden, flaky pastry, and the best part is how easy it is to prepare. I hope you give it a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!
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Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious crab and cheese filled crescent rolls that combine creamy cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and tender crab meat wrapped in flaky crescent dough. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these golden, buttery rolls are easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Crescent Rolls
- 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
Finishing
- 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 and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard if using, lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and uniform. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Prepare the Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto the lined baking sheet. Separate the dough into the individual triangles along the perforated lines.
- Fill the Crescent Rolls: Spoon a generous amount of the crab and cheese filling onto the center of each crescent dough triangle. Fold the dough edges over the filling and roll tightly, sealing the ends to prevent filling from leaking. You may shape them into pocket or crescent shapes according to your preference.
- Bake the Crescent Rolls: Optionally, brush the tops of the filled 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 up and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as a delightful appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Notes
- Imitation crab can be used as a budget-friendly alternative to real crab meat.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or pepper jack can be substituted for cheddar.
- Brush with egg wash instead of butter for a shinier, golden finish.
- These rolls are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes if made ahead.
