If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer or snack that’s both indulgent and effortless, these Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are a must-try. Imagine warm, flaky crescent rolls stuffed with a creamy, cheesy crab mixture that melts in your mouth with every bite. This recipe combines the savory richness of crab meat, the gooey goodness of melted cheese, and the buttery crispness of crescent dough to create a snack that’s impossible to resist.
Whether you’re hosting a game night, a holiday party, or just craving a seafood-inspired treat, these crescent rolls fit the bill. They require minimal prep time and bake up beautifully golden and puffy, making them look as good as they taste. Serve them fresh out of the oven with a side of dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in minutes!
Why You’ll Love These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
- Quick & Easy – Only a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Flavor-Packed – Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with fresh crab meat for an irresistible bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a party appetizer or a casual snack, these crescent rolls are a hit.
- Customizable – Swap out cheeses, add extra seasoning, or spice it up with a little heat.
- No Mess, No Stress – Crescent roll dough makes this recipe hassle-free with no need for complicated pastry-making.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent rolls
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Ingredients for Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
- 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained well)
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Be careful not to break the crab apart too much.
Step 2: Assemble the Crescent Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the crab and cheese filling onto the wider end of each triangle.
- Gently roll the dough, starting from the wide end and working toward the tip, enclosing the filling inside.
- Arrange the filled rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli, honey mustard, or a light lemon butter sauce.
Ingredient Background
The magic of these Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls lies in the balance of flavors and textures, thanks to a few key ingredients. Understanding what makes them special will help you appreciate each bite even more.
Crab Meat is the star of this dish, offering a delicate sweetness and a slightly briny flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. Fresh lump crab meat is ideal because it has large, juicy pieces that add texture. If fresh crab isn’t available, high-quality canned or imitation crab can also work, but fresh crab will always provide the best flavor.
Cream Cheese and Shredded Cheese give the filling its creamy, gooey consistency. Cream cheese acts as a smooth base that binds everything together, while mozzarella adds a stretchy, melty texture. Cheddar, with its sharpness, enhances the overall depth of flavor. You can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for a more complex taste.
Crescent Roll Dough is what makes this recipe so effortless. Unlike traditional pastry dough, which requires extensive kneading and chilling, crescent roll dough is pre-made and ready to bake. It provides a light, buttery texture that complements the rich crab filling without overwhelming it.
Technique Tips for Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
Perfecting these crescent rolls requires just a few simple techniques to ensure they bake up golden, crispy, and filled with luscious crab and cheese goodness.
One key step is properly draining the crab meat. Fresh or canned crab often contains excess moisture, which can make the filling watery and prevent the crescent rolls from crisping properly. Use a paper towel to gently press out any excess liquid before mixing the crab into the filling.
Another important technique is rolling the crescent dough correctly. Start with the wide end and roll toward the tip, making sure to tuck in the filling as you go. This helps prevent leaks and ensures that each roll holds its shape while baking. If any filling does escape, don’t worry—it will still be delicious!
Lastly, don’t forget the egg wash. Brushing the tops of the crescent rolls with beaten egg before baking gives them a glossy, golden finish that makes them look professionally baked. If you prefer a deeper color, you can mix a little milk or butter into the egg wash for an even richer appearance.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
These crescent rolls are delicious as bite-sized appetizers, but there are plenty of creative ways to present them for different occasions.
For an elegant dinner party, try serving the crab and cheese filling inside mini puff pastry cups instead of crescent rolls. Bake the pastry shells until crisp, then spoon in the warm crab mixture just before serving. This creates an elevated, visually appealing appetizer that looks as fancy as it tastes.
If you’re making these for a casual gathering, consider turning them into crab and cheese pinwheels. Instead of rolling each crescent triangle individually, spread the crab filling evenly across the entire sheet of dough, roll it up like a log, and slice into pinwheels. Bake them flat on a baking sheet for a crispy, spiral-shaped twist on the original recipe.
For a brunch-friendly variation, bake the crab and cheese filling inside croissant dough or phyllo pastry cups and serve with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. The buttery pastry complements the seafood flavor beautifully, making it a unique addition to any brunch spread.
Freezing and Storing Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), you can store and reheat these crescent rolls while keeping their texture intact.
For short-term storage, place the cooled crescent rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in an oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 5 minutes to restore the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soft and chewy.
For longer storage, these crescent rolls freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store for up to 2 months. When reheating, bake straight from frozen at 350°F (177°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
If you’re planning to freeze them before baking, assemble the rolls as usual, but skip the egg wash. Freeze them on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.
Healthier Twist Ideas
If you’d like a lighter version of these crescent rolls, there are a few simple swaps you can make without sacrificing flavor.
For a lower-fat version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. This keeps the filling creamy while reducing calories and adding protein. Light cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese can also be used instead of full-fat cream cheese for a less rich but equally tasty result.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free crescent roll dough or make your own using a blend of almond flour and tapioca starch. Be sure to check that all seasonings and ingredients (such as Dijon mustard) are gluten-free as well.
If you want to increase fiber and nutrients, consider adding finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to the filling. This not only boosts the dish’s nutritional value but also adds a fresh, slightly sweet contrast to the savory crab and cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions for Events
These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a variety of occasions.
For a holiday appetizer, serve them on a decorative platter with a side of homemade remoulade sauce or spicy aioli. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, festive touch. They pair wonderfully with other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms or shrimp cocktail.
If you’re hosting a game day party, place these crescent rolls on a large board alongside dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce. Their handheld size makes them ideal for snacking while watching the big game. Pair them with crispy fries or a fresh slaw for a satisfying spread.
For a romantic date night, serve these crescent rolls with a simple arugula salad and a bowl of creamy soup. A light seafood chowder or roasted tomato bisque complements the richness of the filling beautifully, creating a cozy, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I use imitation crab for this recipe?
- Yes, but fresh lump crab meat provides the best flavor and texture. Imitation crab works as a budget-friendly alternative.
-
Can I prepare these crescent rolls ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
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What’s the best dipping sauce for these crescent rolls?
- Garlic aioli, lemon butter sauce, honey mustard, or a simple marinara sauce work well.
-
Can I make these in an air fryer?
- Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
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What can I use instead of crescent roll dough?
- Puff pastry or phyllo dough are great alternatives.
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How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
- Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the seams to seal them well.
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Can I use other cheeses?
- Definitely! Try Gouda, Havarti, or Pepper Jack for a different twist.
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How do I know when they’re done baking?
- They should be golden brown and crisp on the outside.
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Can I add extra seasoning to the filling?
- Yes! A pinch of Old Bay seasoning or Cajun spice adds extra flavor.
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Use an oven at 325°F for 5 minutes or air fry for a quick crisp.
Conclusion
These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining creamy seafood goodness with buttery, flaky pastry. Whether you’re making them for a party, a cozy night in, or just because you’re craving something delicious, they always hit the spot. Try them out, experiment with different cheeses and seasonings, and enjoy the warm, cheesy perfection in every bite!
Print
Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent rolls 1x
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained well)
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Be careful not to break the crab apart too much.
Step 2: Assemble the Crescent Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles.
- Place a spoonful of the crab and cheese filling onto the wider end of each triangle.
- Gently roll the dough, starting from the wide end and working toward the tip, enclosing the filling inside.
- Arrange the filled rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli, honey mustard, or a light lemon butter sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g