If you’re looking for an irresistible bite-sized treat that blends flaky pastry with rich, creamy seafood flavors, this Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine warm, golden crescent rolls generously stuffed with a luscious mix of cream cheese, succulent crab meat, and just the right hint of seasoning. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a cozy appetizer, or simply want to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe brings together simple ingredients that create an unforgettable flavor explosion. Trust me, once you taste these, they’ll become a cherished go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting that perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors with a delightful texture that melts in your mouth. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make these marvelous rolls come to life:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough: The flakiest, buttery base that wraps all the delicious goodness inside.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a smooth, rich creaminess that complements the crab beautifully.
- 1/2 cup cooked lump crab meat: The star ingredient – sweet, tender crab for that authentic seafood flavor.
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped: Offers a fresh, mild bite that brightens the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle hint of savory depth without overwhelming the seafood.
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional): Classic seafood seasoning that elevates the taste to the next level.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every bite.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly inside the rolls, adding gooey texture and mild tang.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the rolls that irresistible golden sheen when baked.
How to Make Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s perfectly hot when the rolls are ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those crescent rolls from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze. Getting this step done early sets the stage for smooth preparation.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Crab Filling
In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, lump crab meat, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, and Old Bay seasoning if you’re using it. Season with salt and black pepper based on your taste. Finally, fold in the shredded cheese until it’s all beautifully combined – this mixture is the heart of your Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe and it’s absolutely worth savoring as you assemble.
Step 3: Prepare and Fill the Crescent Dough
Unroll your crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Spoon a generous amount of the crab and cheese mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Now, carefully roll each triangle up from the wide end toward the tip, fully enclosing the rich filling. Place each roll on your baking sheet with the seam side down to prevent them from unraveling during baking.
Step 4: Add the Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the tops of the rolls with a beaten egg to give them a stunning golden color and shiny finish once baked. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes – keep an eye out for that perfect puffed, golden-brown look that signals they’re done. After baking, let them cool slightly so the filling sets just right before you dig in.
How to Serve Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the richness of the crab filling beautifully. You can also sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, dill, or extra green onions over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor that makes each bite even more delightful.
Side Dishes
These crab-filled rolls shine as a star appetizer but pair wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. Think crisp garden salads with citrus vinaigrette, tangy coleslaw, or even a chilled cucumber salad. For a heartier option, creamy corn chowder or tomato bisque offer cozy warmth that complements the seafood rolls such a treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Arrange your Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by little bowls of cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, and a tangy remoulade. You can also serve them alongside lemon wedges and a sprinkle of paprika for color and zest, making your appetizer table as inviting as the rolls themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place them in an airtight container once fully cooled. Stored in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for a quick and tasty snack or second round whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
This Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe freezes beautifully too! Before baking, arrange the rolled crescent dough on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To bring your leftover rolls back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crispy again. Avoid the microwave for reheating if you want to keep that signature flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab?
Absolutely! Imitation crab meat is a budget-friendly alternative that still delivers great flavor and texture in this recipe. Just make sure it’s well drained before mixing.
Is it possible to make these rolls vegan or dairy-free?
You can attempt substitutions like plant-based cream cheese and vegan crescent roll dough, but the classic flavor will differ. Experimenting with seafood alternatives might also be necessary for a fully vegan version.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! The filling can be mixed up to a day ahead. Store it tightly covered in the fridge and assemble the crescent rolls just before baking to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay on hand, try a mix of paprika, celery salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper for a similar spicy, savory kick that complements seafood.
How many rolls does this recipe yield?
This Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe makes 8 rolls, perfect for serving as an appetizer or sharing with friends and family at your next gathering.
Final Thoughts
This Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe is truly a magic little package of flavor and texture that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re whipping it up on a weeknight or bringing it to a party, these rolls are guaranteed to impress with their flaky pastry and creamy, savory crab filling. Don’t hesitate to give them a try – I promise they’ll become a beloved addition to your culinary lineup in no time!
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Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 8 rolls 1x
Description
Delicious Crab Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls featuring creamy crab meat and cheese wrapped in buttery crescent dough, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as an easy, elegant appetizer or seafood snack for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked lump crab meat, drained and picked over
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Dough and Finishing
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese, cooked lump crab meat, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese to create a creamy, flavorful mixture.
- Assemble the crescent rolls: Unroll the refrigerated crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 individual triangles. Place a spoonful of the crab cheese filling at the wide end of each triangle. Carefully roll each triangle from the wide end toward the tip, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed. Arrange the rolled crescents seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply egg wash: Brush the tops of each crescent roll with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden brown and shiny finish after baking.
- Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Bake until the crescent rolls have puffed up and are golden brown on top.
- Cool and serve: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set and to enjoy comfortably.
Notes
- Serve the crescent rolls with a squeeze of fresh lemon or alongside cocktail or tartar sauce for extra flavor.
- You can use imitation crab meat as a budget-friendly alternative to real crab meat without sacrificing taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
