Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls: A Golden, Cheesy Seafood Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Prep: With refrigerated crescent dough, there’s no hassle with homemade pastry.

• Elegant Flavor: The creamy cream cheese pairs perfectly with tender crab meat, creating a luxurious filling.

• Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls bake up golden brown and gooey, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack.

• Customizable: Add herbs, hot sauce, or extra shredded cheese to personalize the recipe to your liking.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough

• 6–8 oz crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation)

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)

• 2 tbsp green onions or chives (finely chopped)

• A pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder

• Squeeze of lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

directions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, crab meat, shredded cheese (if using), green onions, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined. Taste and adjust with lemon juice if you like a bit of brightness.

3. Assemble the Rolls

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the crab mixture onto the wider end of each triangle. Roll up the dough from the wide end to the narrow tip, tucking the filling inside as you go.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up and golden brown.

5. Serve Warm

These rolls are best served fresh from the oven when the filling is creamy, and the crust is crispy and golden.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Bake Time: 10–12 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: Makes 8 filled crescent rolls (easily doubled for larger gatherings)

Variations

• Add a Kick: For extra flavor, mix in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Cheese Lovers: Add extra cheese—cream cheese, cheddar, or even a bit of parmesan—into the filling for more richness.

• Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme for added fragrance.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the crab with cooked spinach, artichokes, or mushrooms for a vegetarian filling.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore the crispness.

• Freezing: These rolls freeze well. Freeze them before baking, then bake straight from the freezer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat for this recipe?

Yes, imitation crab meat works perfectly in this dish and is often more affordable.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt.

Can I add more seafood to the filling?

Absolutely! Shrimp or lobster can be added for an extra seafood twist.

How can I make these rolls spicier?

Add a few dashes of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or finely diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.

Can I freeze these rolls before baking?

Yes, you can freeze them. Prepare them, then place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of dough?

You can substitute the crescent dough with puff pastry for a flakier texture or phyllo dough for a crispier bite.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed when fresh but can still be delicious when reheated.

Can I make these rolls without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter version. The crab and cream cheese provide enough richness on their own.

Can I serve these rolls as a main dish?

These rolls work well as a snack or appetizer, but if you want to make them a main course, pair them with a side salad or some roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are the ultimate indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare yet impresses every time. With their buttery, flaky crust and creamy, savory filling, they’re the perfect appetizer for any gathering or a luxurious snack. The best part? You don’t need any special skills or ingredients—just a few simple pantry items and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to please everyone!