Cheesy Garlic Crescent Rolls

Cheesy garlic crescent rolls have a reputation for stealing the show at any table. These rolls offer a gooey, garlicky center wrapped in a flaky golden pastry that comes together in no time. Perfect for last minute guests or to accompany homemade soups and pastas, they give off that inviting aroma you want wafting through the house on a cozy evening.

I first pulled this together when I realized I had last minute company on the way and only a few basics in the fridge. Watching everyone tear into the basket and fight for extra rolls has guaranteed their spot in my regular rotation.

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough: From the refrigerated section for fluffy texture and a shortcut to delicious pastry
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and brings that irresistible stretch with each bite; select a fresh block and shred it yourself for best melt
• Cream cheese: For creamy lushness; soften it at room temperature for easy blending
• Fresh garlic: Delivers sharp tang and depth; mince it finely for even distribution
• Fresh parsley: Pop of color and bright herbal note; choose crisp leaves without dark spots
• Salt and black pepper: Balancing seasoning; use freshly ground black pepper when possible for more flavor
• Butter: For brushing atop the rolls and carrying the garlic flavor into every bite; use unsalted for more control
• Garlic powder: In the butter glaze for an extra punch; opt for a brand with pure ingredients if possible

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to one hundred ninety degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the rolls from sticking and to catch any delicious melted cheese that escapes

Mix the Filling:

Combine the shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and parsley in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until creamy and evenly mixed. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides and make sure everything blends together well

Season the Mixture:

Add measured salt and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir to distribute the seasoning evenly so each bite is flavorful

Shape the Rolls:

Unroll the crescent dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently separate it into individual triangles at the perforations. Try not to stretch the dough too thin to keep a fluffy texture

Fill the Triangles:

Spoon one generous tablespoon of cheese filling onto the wide end of each triangle. Use two spoons to keep the process tidy. Place the filling right at the base

Roll and Seal:

Gently roll each dough triangle from the wide end to the point. Pinch and tuck any seams or edges to keep the cheese contained during baking. This ensures gooey cheese stays inside the roll instead of oozing out

Arrange for Baking:

Place the rolls seam side down onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each one so they bake evenly and get crisp on all sides

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the tray into the oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until the tops look golden brown and the pastry feels crisp and flaky. Avoid opening the oven too often for even rising

Make Garlic Butter:

While the rolls bake, melt the butter gently over low heat in a small saucepan. Stir in the garlic powder until fully dissolved and smooth. Remove from heat once combined

Add Final Touches:

Once baked, remove the crescent rolls from the oven and brush them immediately with the garlic butter. Scatter extra chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Let the rolls cool a few minutes before serving so the cheese settles and nobody burns their mouth

Mozzarella is my favorite ingredient in this recipe because of how stretchy and gooey it becomes beneath the crisp pastry. My family always expects me to double the batch since there are rarely any leftovers and it has become tradition to sneak extra pieces from the tray while they are still warm.

Storage Tips

After cooling store extra rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness keep them in the refrigerator and reheat briefly in the oven to restore the crispness. The rolls also freeze beautifully for quick appetizers or sides later on.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap mozzarella for another melting cheese like provolone or Monterey Jack if needed. If you have herbs other than parsley try chives or basil for a different flavor profile. You can use homemade crescent dough if you want to go fully from scratch just allow for extra time.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are amazing with a hot bowl of tomato soup or a pasta dinner. They also work well as party snacks or appetizers. Place them on a platter with a little bowl of warm marinara or garlic aioli for dipping and watch them disappear fast.

Cultural Context

Crescent roll dough is inspired by French pastry traditions but these filled rolls have become a true modern classic in American family kitchens. They bridge the gap between homemade indulgence and weeknight convenience.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add some roasted red pepper for a summery twist. Fold in chopped spinach for added greens. Sprinkle with a little parmesan for fall potlucks.

Success Stories

Friends have called these their new favorite appetizer after trying them at game night and even picky kids ask for seconds. When I make them for family gatherings the tray always empties before dinner is served.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze assemble the rolls but do not bake. Place them on a tray to freeze solid then store in a bag in your freezer. When ready to serve bake straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy these golden, cheesy rolls straight from the oven for maximum gooeyness. They will become a staple at your gatherings in no time.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any preferred melting cheese for variety.

→ Is it better to use fresh or dried parsley?

Fresh parsley is recommended for a bright flavor, but dried parsley can be used if needed—just use less.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

You can assemble the crescents in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake for maximum freshness.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to restore flakiness.

→ How can I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Tuck the edges of each dough triangle carefully when rolling to fully enclose the cheesy filling.