Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

These savory ham and cheese crescent rolls are the ultimate comfort food. Made with thinly sliced deli ham and gooey sharp cheddar wrapped in a flaky, buttery crescent roll, they are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, after-school snack, or a party appetizer. Easy to make and loved by everyone, these rolls are sure to fly off the plate.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 (8 count) can refrigerated crescent rolls

  • 8 slices cheddar cheese (cut in half)

  • 8 slices thin deli ham

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles.

  3. Place half a slice of cheese on each triangle, followed by a slice of ham, and top with another half slice of cheese.

  4. Roll the dough tightly from the wide end, tucking the pointy end underneath. Place the rolls on the baking sheet 1-2 inches apart.

  5. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Brush the mixture over the crescent rolls.

  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.

  7. Let the rolls cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 190

  • Total Fat: 12 g

  • Saturated Fat: 5 g

  • Carbohydrates: 15 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Protein: 6 g

  • Cholesterol: 20 mg

Why Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls Are So Popular

There’s no denying the timeless appeal of ham and cheese—this classic combination has been a favorite in sandwiches, casseroles, and wraps for decades. But when you take this tried-and-true pairing and wrap it in buttery, flaky crescent dough, you get an entirely new level of deliciousness. The rich, buttery dough crisps up in the oven, creating a golden crust that perfectly complements the savory filling inside.

The versatility of these crescent rolls also contributes to their popularity. They’re quick and easy to make, making them ideal for busy nights when you need a meal or snack in a pinch. They’re also perfect for parties or gatherings, as they can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving. Plus, they’re customizable! You can use different types of cheese, add extra seasonings, or swap out the ham for turkey or chicken, depending on your preferences.

The Perfect Cheese and Ham Combination

The choice of cheese is crucial in this recipe. Sharp cheddar cheese is the perfect complement to the salty, savory ham, as its bold, tangy flavor stands out against the richness of the crescent dough. Using thin slices of cheese ensures it melts evenly and perfectly, creating a gooey interior when the rolls are baked. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack, if you’re looking for a more unique flavor profile.

Similarly, the deli ham provides a salty, meaty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese. Thin slices of deli ham are ideal, as they roll up easily with the crescent dough without overwhelming the other ingredients. If you prefer, you can substitute the ham with turkey, prosciutto, or even a vegetarian option like spinach or roasted vegetables for a lighter version of this snack.

Preparing the Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

The process of making these savory rolls is straightforward and quick, making them a great option for a busy weeknight. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the refrigerated crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Each triangle will form the base for your roll.

Place half a slice of cheese on each triangle, followed by a slice of ham, and top with another half slice of cheese. The double layer of cheese ensures that the rolls are extra cheesy, with a gooey filling that’s perfectly melted when baked.

Once the filling is added, roll the dough tightly from the wide end, tucking the pointy end underneath. This helps keep the filling in place and ensures the crescent rolls stay intact while baking. Arrange the rolls on the baking sheet about 1-2 inches apart to allow for even baking and expansion as they puff up in the oven.

The Secret to the Perfectly Flaky and Golden Rolls

To take these ham and cheese crescent rolls to the next level, the topping mixture of melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder is key. The butter and honey add a subtle sweetness, while the Dijon mustard brings a touch of tanginess, creating a flavorful glaze that coats the outside of each roll. The garlic powder adds depth and enhances the savory notes of the ham and cheese.

Using a brush, gently apply the glaze over each crescent roll, making sure to cover them evenly. This glaze helps achieve that golden-brown finish and gives the rolls a beautiful sheen once baked. The result is a crisp, buttery exterior that contrasts perfectly with the warm, cheesy filling.

Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. As the rolls bake, the cheese inside melts, creating a gooey, irresistible filling, while the dough becomes flaky and crisp. The rolls should have a light, airy texture, with the perfect balance of crunchy exterior and soft, cheesy interior.

Serving Suggestions for Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

These savory ham and cheese crescent rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They make a great standalone snack or appetizer, perfect for game day, parties, or gatherings. You can even serve them as a quick lunch or dinner with a side salad or some fresh vegetables for a more balanced meal.

If you’re serving them as an appetizer, consider pairing them with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. The sweetness of honey mustard complements the savory rolls, while barbecue sauce adds a smoky, tangy contrast. If you like a bit of heat, try serving them with a spicy sriracha mayo or chipotle dipping sauce.

For a fun twist, you can also experiment with different toppings. After baking, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, over the rolls for an added layer of flavor. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a touch of sweetness and acidity that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese and ham.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Rolls

If you have any leftover ham and cheese crescent rolls, storing them is easy. Simply let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on a baking sheet. Heat them for 5-7 minutes or until they’re warmed through. This helps preserve the flaky texture of the crescent dough and the gooey cheese inside.

If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat the rolls in the microwave, but keep in mind that the texture of the dough may not be as crispy. To microwave, place the rolls on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed through.

Conclusion: A Quick and Delicious Comfort Food

In conclusion, these savory ham and cheese crescent rolls are the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. With their buttery, flaky dough, gooey melted cheese, and savory ham, they make for an irresistible snack or appetizer. The quick preparation time and ease of baking make them ideal for busy days, while the delicious flavors make them perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a snack for the kids, or a party appetizer that will impress your guests, these rolls have you covered. They’re simple to make, yet full of flavor, and are sure to become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these savory ham and cheese crescent rolls – they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!

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