Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups

This hearty Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible treat that disappears minutes after hitting the table. The combination of soft, buttery crescent rolls with gooey melted cheese and aromatic garlic butter creates a comfort food experience that's both nostalgic and exciting.

I first made these rollups for a last minute game night when I needed something quick but impressive. Now they've become my signature appetizer that friends specifically request whenever we gather. The smell of garlic butter baking in the oven never fails to bring everyone to the kitchen with anticipation.

Ingredients

• 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough: the foundation of this recipe providing a flaky buttery texture without any fuss
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: choose a quality brand that melts smoothly for that perfect cheese pull
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: adds a sharp savory note that elevates the flavor profile
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: the fresher the better for a clean rich buttery taste
• 2 cloves garlic: look for firm heads with tight skin for the most aromatic flavor
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: a convenient herb blend that adds depth and complexity
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: enhances all the flavors without making the rolls taste salty
• Optional fresh parsley: adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup infinitely easier. Allow your oven to fully preheat for at least 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and proper rise of the dough.

Prepare the Dough:

Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Separate along the perforations into 8 triangles without stretching the dough too much. If the dough is sticking slightly chill it for 5 minutes to make it more manageable.

Assemble the Rollups:

Distribute 1-2 tablespoons of mozzarella across each triangle staying about 1/4 inch from the edges. Follow with a light sprinkle of Parmesan focusing on even distribution rather than quantity. Be careful not to overfill or the cheese will leak excessively during baking.
Roll each triangle starting from the widest end and gently tuck the pointed end underneath when placing on the baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart as they will expand during baking.

Make the Garlic Butter:

Melt butter in a microwave safe bowl for about 30 seconds until completely liquid. Add the freshly minced garlic Italian seasoning and salt, whisking to combine. Let the mixture sit for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the butter before brushing.

Brush with Garlic Butter:

Using a pastry brush generously coat each rollup with the garlic butter mixture ensuring you get into all the crevices. Save about 1 tablespoon of the mixture for the final touch after baking which adds an extra burst of flavor and appealing shine.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for a rich golden brown color and slight bubbling of the cheese. Rotate the pan halfway through if your oven has hot spots.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and immediately brush with the reserved garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving to prevent burning your mouth on the molten cheese interior.

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My secret weapon in this recipe is actually the brief resting time after applying the first coat of garlic butter. This small pause allows the flavors to begin penetrating the dough before baking creating a more aromatic finished product. My grandmother taught me this trick with her famous garlic bread and it works beautifully here too.

Make Ahead Options

These cheesy garlic butter rollups can be fully prepared up to the baking stage and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Simply cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats and add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last minute preparation.

Perfect Pairings

These savory rollups complement a variety of dishes and settings. For a casual game day spread serve alongside buffalo wings and vegetable crudités. For a more elegant appetizer hour pair with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats and sweet preserves. My family particularly loves these rollups alongside a hearty tomato soup for a complete comfort food experience that satisfies everyone from the kids to the grandparents.

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Troubleshooting Tips

If your cheese leaks out during baking you likely overfilled the triangles or didn't seal the edges properly. Use a slightly smaller amount of filling next time and press the edges firmly when rolling. Any cheese that does escape will create deliciously crispy bits on the parchment paper that are considered the chef's treat in my kitchen.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of cheese in these rollups?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan, feel free to experiment with other melty cheeses like cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère. You can even try combinations of different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.

→ How do I store leftover garlic butter rollups?

Store any leftover rollups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the dough soggy.

→ Can I make these rollups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these rollups ahead of time in two ways: either assemble them completely and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours before baking, or bake them ahead and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes when ready to serve. Both methods work well for party planning.

→ What can I serve with these cheesy garlic butter rollups?

These versatile rollups pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. They also complement soups, salads, or pasta dishes. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or as part of an appetizer spread with other finger foods.

→ How can I add more flavors to these rollups?

There are many delicious variations you can try! Add a slice of pepperoni or ham before rolling for a meaty twist. Mix in chopped herbs like basil or oregano with the cheese. You could also incorporate finely chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions for additional flavor dimensions.

→ Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated crescent rolls?

Definitely! While refrigerated crescent rolls offer convenience, you can substitute homemade pizza dough, bread dough, or puff pastry. Just roll the dough thin, cut into triangles, and proceed with the filling and rolling process as directed. Baking times may vary slightly depending on the dough used.