Description:
These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are the perfect blend of savory and comforting, ideal for a quick lunch, appetizer, or even a light dinner. Imagine flaky, golden-brown crescent rolls enveloping a creamy, decadent filling bursting with sweet crab meat, melty cheeses, and aromatic herbs. Each bite offers a delightful textural contrast, from the buttery, crisp exterior to the soft, rich interior. This recipe elevates the humble crescent roll into something truly special, transforming simple ingredients into a sophisticated and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of the mild crab meat, the tangy cream cheese, the nutty Parmesan, and the stretchy mozzarella creates a flavor profile that’s both complex and incredibly appealing. These rolls are also exceptionally easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and readily available ingredients, making them a fantastic option for both experienced cooks and those just starting out in the kitchen. They are also customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings and cheeses to your personal preferences, adding a touch of heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or swapping out the mozzarella for provolone for a bolder flavor.
Why you will love this recipe:
There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to make. The use of pre-made crescent roll dough cuts down on prep time significantly, making this recipe a lifesaver when you need a quick and impressive dish. Secondly, the flavor combination is simply irresistible. The delicate sweetness of the crab meat pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy cheeses and the aromatic herbs. It’s a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Thirdly, these rolls are incredibly versatile. They can be served as an appetizer at a party, a satisfying snack, or even as part of a light meal. They are also perfect for potlucks, as they are easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser. Fourthly, they are easily customizable. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spices to create your own unique version. Add a touch of heat with some red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zing. Finally, they are just plain delicious. The combination of the flaky, buttery crescent rolls and the creamy, flavorful filling is simply addictive. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again! They are also a great way to use up leftover crab meat if you have any on hand. It’s a win-win recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. The visual appeal is also a major plus; the golden-brown, perfectly formed rolls look incredibly appetizing, making them a fantastic addition to any table setting. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer for a special occasion, these Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) package refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 (6 oz) can crab meat, drained and flaked (fresh or imitation can be used)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: additional parsley for garnish
- Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash, adds a golden sheen)
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)
- Optional: Squeeze of lemon juice (for brightness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the crescent rolls bake evenly and achieve a perfect golden-brown color. Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray. This is a crucial first step, as the oven needs to be at the correct temperature before you begin assembling the rolls.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped green onion, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. It is essential that the cream cheese is softened, as this will make it easier to mix and create a smooth, creamy filling. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. This step is where the magic happens; the combination of the cheeses, herbs, and spices creates the base flavor of the filling.
Step 3: Gently fold in the crab meat until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break down the crab meat and make it mushy. You want to maintain the integrity of the crab meat so that each bite offers a satisfying texture. Ensure that the crab meat is evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture so that each roll is filled with a consistent amount of crab.
Step 4: Assemble the Crescent Rolls: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles as indicated by the perforations. Work quickly to prevent the dough from becoming too warm and sticky. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab and cheese mixture onto the wider end of each crescent roll triangle. Do not overfill the triangles, as this can cause the filling to leak out during baking. Starting at the wide end, roll up each triangle towards the point. Place the rolled crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet, with the point side down. This helps to prevent the rolls from unrolling during baking. Optional: If desired, brush the tops of the rolls with a beaten egg for a golden sheen.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and cooked through. Keep a close eye on the rolls during baking to prevent them from burning. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so check for doneness after 12 minutes. The rolls are ready when they are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a quick and easy lunch or snack.
- Pair with a side salad for a light dinner.
- Serve with a dipping sauce such as tartar sauce or a creamy dill sauce.
- Offer alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
- Great addition to a brunch spread.
Tips:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t overfill the crescent rolls to prevent filling leakage.
- Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor, but canned crab meat works well too.
- Customize the filling with different cheeses, herbs, or spices to your liking.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with egg wash for a golden-brown color.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the filling.
- If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- To prevent the rolls from sticking to the baking sheet, use parchment paper.
- Serve the rolls warm for the best taste and texture.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
12-15 minutes
Total Time:
27-30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimated, may vary based on ingredients used)
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 per roll
- Protein: Approximately 8-10 grams per roll
- Sodium: Approximately 300-400 mg per roll
Conclusion:
These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are a delightful and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a satisfying snack, or a light meal, this recipe is a winner. The combination of the flaky crescent rolls, the creamy cheese filling, and the sweet crab meat is simply irresistible. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed! The customizable nature of the recipe allows you to experiment and create your own unique version, making it a dish that you can truly call your own. And with minimal prep time and readily available ingredients, it’s a recipe that you can whip up any time you’re craving something delicious and comforting. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these delectable Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls.
5 Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab meat?
- Yes, you can absolutely use imitation crab meat (also known as surimi) in this recipe. It’s a more budget-friendly option and will still provide a similar flavor and texture. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the filling. While fresh crab is always preferable from a flavor perspective, the imitation version works well with the other strong flavor profiles in the filling.
- Can I make these crescent rolls ahead of time?
- You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the crescent rolls just before serving, as the dough is best when freshly baked. Assembling them ahead of time can cause the dough to become soggy. So, prepare the filling, and then assemble and bake when you are ready.
- Can I add any other ingredients to the filling?
- Absolutely! This recipe is very customizable. You could add other cheeses, such as provolone or Gruyere, for a different flavor profile. You could also add finely chopped vegetables, such as celery or bell pepper, for added texture and nutrients. Spices like Old Bay seasoning or a dash of hot sauce can add a bit of zing. Some people like to add a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling for brightness. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique version.
- How do I store leftover crescent rolls?
- Leftover crescent rolls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or microwave them for a few seconds. You can also enjoy them cold, although they are best when reheated slightly.
- What can I serve with these crescent rolls as a complete meal?
- These crescent rolls pair well with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great option. You could also serve them with a bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or clam chowder. A side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, would also be a healthy and delicious addition. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries.
