Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups

These cheesy garlic butter rollups have become my go-to recipe whenever I need to impress guests with minimal effort. The combination of flaky crescent dough, melty cheese, and aromatic garlic butter creates an irresistible treat that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

I first made these rollups for a last-minute game night with friends, and they were such a hit that they've become mandatory at our gatherings. Even my picky nephew asks for them by name when he visits.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated crescent roll dough: provides the perfect flaky base without any fuss
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: creates that satisfying cheese pull when eaten warm
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds a savory depth that elevates the flavor profile
• Unsalted butter: allows you to control the saltiness of the finished dish
• Fresh garlic cloves: offer much more flavor than pre-minced options
• Italian seasoning: brings a wonderful herb blend that complements the cheese
• Salt: enhances all the other flavors and balances the richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature is perfect for creating golden, flaky crescent rolls while properly melting the cheese inside.

Prepare the Dough:

Carefully unroll the crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles. Work gently to avoid tearing the dough, which can cause cheese to leak during baking.

Assemble the Rollups:

Distribute mozzarella and Parmesan evenly across each triangle, being careful not to overstuff. Leaving about 1/4 inch around the edges helps prevent cheese from oozing out during baking. Roll each triangle starting from the wide end, tucking any stray cheese back in as you go. Place them seam-side down on your baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion.

Make the Garlic Butter:

Whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt until well combined. The butter should be warm but not hot enough to start cooking the garlic.

Brush with Garlic Butter:

Use a pastry brush to generously coat each rollup with the garlic butter mixture. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor. Save a small amount for after baking.

Bake:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for a deep golden brown color and slight puffing of the dough to indicate they're done.

Finish and Serve:

Immediately brush the hot rollups with remaining garlic butter, allowing it to soak into the warm dough. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the moment the rollups come out of the oven, filling the kitchen with the intoxicating aroma of garlic and butter. It reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother's house where the smell of fresh bread would always greet us at the door.

Make-Ahead Options

These rollups work beautifully as a make-ahead option for busy hosts. You can assemble them completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply brush with the garlic butter mixture and bake as directed, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time since they'll be cold from the refrigerator.

Delicious Variations

While the classic recipe is perfect on its own, there are countless ways to customize these rollups to suit any occasion. Try adding a layer of thinly sliced prosciutto for an elegant twist, or mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for Mediterranean flavor. For spice lovers, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter creates a wonderful heat that balances the rich cheese.

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Perfect Pairings

These cheesy garlic butter rollups shine as part of a larger spread. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. They also make an excellent accompaniment to soups and stews, replacing traditional garlic bread with something more special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make these rollups ahead of time?

Prepare the rollups as directed, bake them, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Gouda, or any melty cheese of your choice.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these rollups?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli are great options for dipping.

→ Can I add meat to these rollups?

Absolutely! Add a slice of pepperoni, ham, or cooked bacon before rolling up the dough.

→ How do I keep the rollups from unrolling during baking?

Ensure the seam side is placed down on the baking sheet and press gently to secure the edges.