If you’re looking to wow your friends (or simply treat yourself), Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are about to become a new favorite in your kitchen! These golden, flaky crescents are stuffed with a creamy, cheesy crab mixture, making every bite rich, savory, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re whipping them up for brunch, passing them around at your next party, or sneaking a few for a midnight snack, this recipe is as reliable as it gets. The best part? They’re unbelievably easy and quick to make, but give off major “gourmet” energy—making you look like a kitchen superstar in just thirty minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls rely on a handful of smart, accessible ingredients that work true magic together. Each component builds either creaminess, tender texture, or that unmistakable seafood bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz): The unsung hero, bringing buttery layers and that classic crescent shape without any fuss.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Adds luxurious creaminess that melds perfectly with the seafood filling.
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (½ cup): For stretchy, melty goodness—pick whichever you prefer for a mild or sharper flavor.
- Lump crab meat (1 can, 6 oz, drained and flaked): The star ingredient, giving each roll a delicious, briny, tender bite.
- Green onion (1, finely chopped): Lends subtle sharpness and a pop of color in every mouthful.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Backs up the crab and cheese with a savory punch.
- Old Bay seasoning (¼ teaspoon, optional): For extra zest and that classic seafood vibe (totally optional, but so good if you have it).
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance—don’t skip this!
- Beaten egg (1, for egg wash): Helps your crescents bake up shiny, golden, and bakery-beautiful.
How to Make Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Mixing the filling takes just a minute, but it’s where all the magic starts! In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, lump crab meat, chopped green onion, garlic powder, Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly distributed and smooth, making sure the crab is well-flaked and the cheeses fully incorporated. If you like a zestier filling, don’t be shy about adding a pinch more Old Bay!
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Unroll your crescent dough and gently separate it into 8 triangles along the perforated lines. Lay them out on a board so you’re ready to fill and roll. This is where you get that signature crescent shape and start building serious anticipation for your Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls.
Step 3: Fill and Roll
Spoon a heaping tablespoon of your creamy crab mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Starting from that same wide end, carefully roll each one up toward the pointed tip, tucking in the sides a bit as you go so none of the delicious filling escapes. Place each roll seam-side-down on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Egg Wash for Shine
For perfectly golden, professional-looking crescents, brush each roll with a light coat of beaten egg. This simple step gives your Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls a beautiful shine and helps seal the dough for a soft bite.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated 375°F oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the rolls are beautifully golden brown and puffed. Let them cool for about 5 minutes—you’ll want to dive in right away, but those molten centers need a moment to set just enough for perfect bites.
How to Serve Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way. Sprinkle fresh parsley or thin-sliced green onion on your platter for brightness, and serve lemon wedges on the side for a splash of fresh acidity. If you’re feeling extra, a dusting of paprika or a scatter of microgreens is always welcomed.
Side Dishes
Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls shine next to crisp garden salads, a bowl of chilled gazpacho, or even with classic party favorites like fresh veggie crudités. They’re also right at home beside a cup of rich tomato soup—think “grown-up grilled cheese.”
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the rolls in a wreath or ring shape around a dipping bowl of cocktail sauce or homemade herby aioli. Tuck in lettuce or shreds of radicchio between the rolls for extra color. Even for a casual gathering, pile them high on a wooden board for that irresistible, help-yourself effect!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls left by the end of the night (a rare miracle!), wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days, still tender and flavorful for snacking or a quick lunch.
Freezing
These crescent rolls freeze beautifully! Once they’re completely cool, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months, perfect for impromptu lunches or surprise guests!
Reheating
For best results, reheat Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls in a 300°F oven or toaster oven for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through and re-crisped on the outside. While the microwave is quick, it can make the dough a bit soft—so aim for the oven when you can for that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?
Absolutely! Imitation crab works well if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or if that’s what you have on hand. The flavor is milder, but it still gives you a tasty result in these Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls.
Are there other cheeses I can use?
Yes! Feel free to swap in Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a different twist. Just use a cheese that melts nicely so the filling stays creamy and luscious.
Can I make them ahead before baking?
Definitely. Simply assemble the filled crescents, place them on a baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and chill for up to six hours before baking. Bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the timer if needed.
What sauces go best with Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls?
Cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a lemony aioli are wonderful for dipping. For a spicy kick, a drizzle of sriracha mayo pairs perfectly. Even plain, these rolls are pop-in-your-mouth good!
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes—you can easily double or even triple the recipe. Just bake in batches or use multiple trays, rotating halfway through. Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are a total crowd-pleaser, so the more, the merrier!
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried making Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls yet, trust me—this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again. They’re easy, adaptable, and bursting with coastal flavor in every bite. I can’t wait for you to taste that first flaky, cheesy, crab-filled mouthful. Give them a try and bring a little gourmet joy to your next gathering—or your next snack break!
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Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 crescent rolls 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are a delicious and easy appetizer perfect for any occasion. Flaky crescent roll dough is filled with a creamy mixture of crab, cheese, and seasonings, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Dough:
- 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 can (6 oz) lump crab meat, drained and flaked
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare filling: In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, shredded cheese, crab meat, green onion, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble rolls: Unroll crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Place a spoonful of the crab filling at the wide end of each triangle. Roll up the dough, tucking in the sides slightly to hold the filling. Place on the baking sheet, seam side down.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with lemon or cocktail sauce.
- Great for appetizers, brunch, or a light lunch.
- Substitute imitation crab if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
