Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are a simple yet satisfying treat that works well as a snack, appetizer, or even a quick meal. The buttery crescent roll dough wraps around savory ham and gooey melted cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They’re easy to prepare, require only a few ingredients, and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving them at a party or as a tasty lunch, these rolls are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese), cut in half
- 2 tablespoons Dijon or yellow mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Open the can of crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles along the perforated lines. Lay the triangles flat on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Add Mustard (Optional)
If you like an extra zing of flavor, spread a thin layer of Dijon or yellow mustard on each crescent roll triangle. This adds a bit of tanginess that complements the ham and cheese.
Step 4: Layer the Ham and Cheese
Place a slice of ham on each crescent roll triangle, folding the ham if needed to fit within the dough. Next, add a half slice of cheddar cheese on top of the ham. The cheese will melt perfectly inside the roll for a deliciously gooey filling.
Step 5: Roll Up the Crescent Rolls
Starting at the wide end of each triangle, roll the dough towards the pointed end, encasing the ham and cheese inside. Make sure the tip of the dough is tucked underneath the roll to prevent it from unrolling during baking.
Step 6: Arrange the Rolls on the Baking Sheet
Place the rolled-up crescents on your baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. This gives them enough room to expand as they bake.
Step 7: Brush with Butter
For a golden, flavorful finish, brush the tops of the crescent rolls with melted butter. The butter adds richness and helps any optional toppings stick.
Step 8: Add Toppings (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds or dried parsley on top of the crescent rolls. The poppy seeds add a subtle crunch, while the parsley gives the rolls a pop of color and freshness.
Step 9: Bake the Crescent Rolls
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The rolls should be slightly puffed and crisp on the outside.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. The filling will be very hot, so a brief cooling period ensures the perfect temperature for serving.
Step 11: Presentation and Serving Ideas
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are versatile and can be served with a variety of dips like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara sauce. Arrange them on a platter with some fresh veggies or chips for a complete snack spread.
Step 12: Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. They can also be microwaved, but they may lose some of their crunch.
Conclusion:
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are a quick and delicious option for any occasion. With their buttery exterior and savory filling, they’re bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. You can easily customize the recipe by experimenting with different meats, cheeses, or even adding vegetables.
Additional Tips:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder before baking.
- You can switch up the filling with turkey, Swiss cheese, or even leftover roast chicken.
- If you prefer, substitute whole-grain crescent roll dough for a healthier twist on this classic recipe.
Enjoy these warm, cheesy, and irresistible Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls!
