There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of warm, buttery dough, gooey cheese, and fragrant garlic. Now, imagine all of that rolled up into bite-sized perfection—welcome to the irresistible world of Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups! Whether you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a side dish for pasta night, or a quick and indulgent snack, these rollups will steal the show.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Made with soft, flaky dough, each rollup is generously brushed with garlic butter, filled with melted cheese, and baked until golden brown. The result? A heavenly bite that delivers the perfect balance of crispy, chewy, and cheesy goodness. Whether you dip them in marinara sauce, pair them with soup, or enjoy them on their own, these rollups will have you reaching for more.
Perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, these Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups require minimal ingredients and come together in no time. They’re great for game nights, holiday parties, or even as an after-school snack. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or even a hint of spice for an extra kick. No matter how you serve them, these rollups are guaranteed to disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups
There’s something magical about warm, freshly baked bread filled with melted cheese and brushed with garlicky butter. These Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups hit all the right notes—crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, and loaded with flavor. The combination of rich butter, aromatic garlic, and stretchy cheese creates an irresistible bite that is both satisfying and addictive.
Another reason to fall in love with these rollups? They’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious, bakery-style rollups ready in no time. Whether you’re using store-bought dough or making your own from scratch, the process is foolproof and fun. Even kids will enjoy helping out—rolling up the dough, sprinkling the cheese, and brushing on that delicious garlic butter.
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, these rollups offer endless possibilities. Switch up the cheese for different flavors, add fresh herbs for a gourmet touch, or even stuff them with extras like pepperoni or caramelized onions. You can make them bite-sized for snacking or larger for a heartier treat. No matter how you customize them, one thing’s for sure: they’ll be gone in minutes!
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 rollups
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 190
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (or homemade dough)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For serving (optional):
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic butter for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into individual triangles. If using homemade dough, roll it out into a rectangle and cut into even-sized triangles.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. This mixture will infuse the rollups with delicious garlicky flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and cheddar cheese over each dough triangle. Be careful not to overfill, as the cheese will melt and expand during baking.
Step 5: Roll Up the Dough
Starting from the wider end of each triangle, gently roll the dough toward the pointed tip, tucking the cheese inside. Place each rollup on the prepared baking sheet with the tip side down to prevent unraveling.
Step 6: Brush with Garlic Butter
Using a pastry brush, coat each rollup with the garlic butter mixture. This will create a golden, flavorful crust while baking.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Parmesan and Parsley
Lightly sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the rollups. If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden Brown
Place the rollups in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The cheese should be fully melted and slightly bubbling.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce or extra garlic butter for dipping. Enjoy while warm for the best gooey, cheesy experience!
Ingredient Background
The magic of these Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups comes from a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a deeper dive into what makes each one special.
Garlic, a key ingredient in this recipe, has been a culinary favorite for centuries. Originating from Central Asia, it is widely used in Mediterranean, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Its pungent, savory aroma becomes mild and sweet when cooked, creating the perfect balance for buttery, cheesy dishes. Besides its flavor, garlic is packed with antioxidants and has been linked to various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
Cheese is the heart of these rollups, giving them their gooey, melty texture and rich flavor. Mozzarella is the top choice because of its smooth, stretchy melt, while cheddar adds a sharp, slightly tangy taste. Parmesan, which is sprinkled on top, enhances the rollups with its nutty and salty depth. Cheese isn’t just about taste—it also provides protein and calcium, making these rollups a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Butter is what gives these rollups their golden, crispy exterior and indulgent richness. The addition of garlic to melted butter creates an aromatic, buttery coating that infuses every bite with flavor. Using high-quality, unsalted butter allows for better control over the seasoning, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
Technique Tips for Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups
Making the perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups is easy, but a few expert techniques can take them to the next level.
One of the most important factors in this recipe is choosing the right dough. While store-bought crescent roll dough makes the process quick and convenient, using homemade dough can add a more authentic, bakery-style touch. If you opt for homemade dough, make sure it’s soft and pliable, allowing for easy rolling without tearing.
Another key tip is layering the cheese properly. If you add too much cheese, it may leak out while baking, causing a mess on your baking sheet. A moderate amount, evenly distributed, ensures the perfect cheese-to-dough ratio while keeping everything neatly contained inside the roll. You can also freeze the cheese for 10 minutes before rolling to prevent excessive melting before the dough bakes fully.
Finally, brushing with garlic butter before and after baking ensures the best flavor. Applying it before baking helps create a crispy, golden crust, while a second coat after baking intensifies the garlic-butter richness. This technique also helps the parmesan and herbs stick to the rollups, giving them a beautifully finished look.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
While these Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are fantastic as-is, there are plenty of creative ways to serve them for different occasions.
For a party appetizer, consider making mini versions of these rollups. Instead of full-sized crescent rolls, cut the dough into smaller pieces and roll them up into bite-sized treats. Arrange them on a platter with a bowl of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping, and watch them disappear in minutes!
If you’re serving them as a side dish, place the rollups in a circular formation in a cast-iron skillet before baking. This creates a “pull-apart” bread effect, where each piece can be easily torn away. It’s perfect for serving alongside soups, pasta, or roasted meats, making mealtime feel extra special.
For a brunch twist, transform these rollups into a cheesy breakfast treat. Add a bit of scrambled egg or turkey bacon inside the roll before baking. Serve with a side of avocado or a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory combination that’s sure to impress.
Freezing and Storing Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups
These Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are so good that leftovers are rare—but if you happen to have some, they store beautifully for later enjoyment.
For short-term storage, place the rollups in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. A quick blast in an air fryer also works well.
If you’d like to freeze them, make sure they are completely cooled before storing. Wrap each rollup individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
Another great option is to freeze the unbaked rollups. Prepare them as instructed, but instead of baking, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a storage bag. When ready to bake, simply place them in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Healthier Twist Ideas
While these Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are already delicious, there are a few ways to make them a little healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Instead of using regular crescent roll dough, opt for a whole wheat version or a homemade dough made with Greek yogurt. This increases fiber content while reducing refined carbs, making each bite more nutritious.
For a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the amount of butter in the garlic mixture. You can also swap in olive oil for butter, which adds heart-healthy fats while still providing great flavor.
If you want a higher protein version, try adding grilled chicken or turkey slices inside the rollups before baking. This makes them more filling and turns them into a well-rounded meal rather than just a snack.
Serving Suggestions for Events
These Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are incredibly versatile and can be served at various events, from casual gatherings to formal dinners.
For a game night snack, serve them with a selection of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, and garlic butter. Arrange them on a large platter so guests can grab and dip while watching the game.
At a holiday dinner, place them in a breadbasket alongside other warm appetizers like stuffed mushrooms or spinach dip. The golden, cheesy rolls will complement roasted meats and rich holiday dishes perfectly.
For a kids’ party, pair the rollups with fun dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce. You can also shape them into fun designs, such as crescent twists or pinwheels, to make them more exciting for little ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Try gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavors. -
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. -
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
Yes, but the texture will be flakier and crispier. Adjust the baking time slightly. -
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Use a moderate amount and roll the dough tightly to seal in the cheese. -
Can I add extra fillings?
Definitely! Try adding spinach, turkey bacon, or caramelized onions for extra flavor. -
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, checking halfway through. -
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. -
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor. Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute. -
How can I make these spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture or use spicy cheese like pepper jack. -
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free dough alternative for a delicious GF version.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are an absolute delight—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or just a snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, with endless ways to customize them, you’ll never run out of excuses to whip up a fresh batch. Try them today and watch them disappear in minutes!
PrintCheesy Garlic Butter Rollups
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 rollups 1x
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (or homemade dough)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For serving (optional):
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic butter for dipping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into individual triangles. If using homemade dough, roll it out into a rectangle and cut into even-sized triangles.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. This mixture will infuse the rollups with delicious garlicky flavor.
Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and cheddar cheese over each dough triangle. Be careful not to overfill, as the cheese will melt and expand during baking.
Starting from the wider end of each triangle, gently roll the dough toward the pointed tip, tucking the cheese inside. Place each rollup on the prepared baking sheet with the tip side down to prevent unraveling.
Using a pastry brush, coat each rollup with the garlic butter mixture. This will create a golden, flavorful crust while baking.
Lightly sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the rollups. If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes.
Place the rollups in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The cheese should be fully melted and slightly bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce or extra garlic butter for dipping. Enjoy while warm for the best gooey, cheesy experience!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g