Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups – Savory, Flaky & Totally Irresistible 🧈🍖🧀

If you’re short on time but long on cravings for something warm, cheesy, and comforting — these Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups are about to become your new favorite quick meal!

These handheld baked bites start with soft crescent roll dough , which is layered with cheddar cheese and thin slices of deli ham , then rolled up and baked until golden and flaky. Brushed with garlic butter , they come out of the oven smelling like a bakery and tasting like pure comfort in every bite.

Whether you’re feeding hungry kids after school, packing lunch for work, or looking for an easy appetizer, this recipe brings bold flavor without any stress.

Let’s dive into how to make this 20-minute masterpiece!

🧁 Why You’ll Love These Crescent Roll-Ups

• Flaky & buttery : The signature crescent roll texture never disappoints.
• Savory ham meets gooey cheddar : A match made in baked snack heaven.
• Great for sharing : Perfect for parties, picnics, or family dinners.
• Super fast to make : Ready from fridge to oven in minutes.
• Make-ahead friendly : Prep and bake just before guests arrive.

🧾 Ingredients (Makes 8–10 Roll-Ups)

For each roll-up:

• 1 tube (8-count) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or puff pastry for extra flakiness)
• 16 slices deli ham (2 per roll-up)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 tbsp per roll)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter , melted (plus extra for brushing)
• ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic (for the butter glaze)
• Pinch of salt and pepper (to season the cheese layer)

Optional: Fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey for sweet-savory contrast
Optional: A few drops of Worcestershire sauce or mustard for depth

🔪 Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Rolling pin or spatula (if using puff pastry)
• Knife or pizza cutter
• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush
• Measuring tools

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Unroll the Dough

Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface or cutting board.

Separate the dough into 8 triangles — if using a round crescent roll, cut into wedges like a pizza.

Step 3: Layer Ham & Cheese

For each triangle:

1. Lay out 2 slices of ham across the base of the dough.
2. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese , leaving space at the edges for sealing.
3. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor boost.

Step 4: Roll Into Golden Perfection

Starting at the wide end of each triangle:

1. Roll tightly toward the tip, keeping the layers intact.
2. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Brush the tops with a mixture of melted butter and garlic powder for that rich, golden finish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Crispy

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes , or until puffed and golden brown.

The cheese will melt beautifully into the ham, and the dough will crisp up with a buttery aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve Warm

Let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving — this helps them firm slightly and makes them easier to handle.

Serve warm with dipping sauces like:

• Honey mustard
• Dill dip
• Garlic aioli
• Spicy mayo or ranch

Or enjoy as-is — one roll-up at a time!

🍞 Serving Suggestions

• With a side of coleslaw or potato salad for classic picnic vibes.
• Try it paired with soup, chili, or stew for hearty comfort.
• Stack in a lunchbox with fruit and yogurt cups for balanced meals.
• Perfect alongside a cold beer or sparkling cider .
• Great as appetizers when cut into bite-sized pinwheels .

🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator: Store cooled roll-ups in foil for up to 3 days .
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked roll-ups on a tray, then store in ziplock bags for up to 2 months . Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to cooking time.
• Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate overnight — bake fresh in the morning.
• Reheating: Rewarm in toaster oven or oven at 300°F (150°C) for best results.

✅ Expert Tips for Success

• Use thinly sliced ham — it distributes flavor more evenly.
• Don’t skip the garlic butter brushing — it enhances both taste and color.
• Want extra richness? Add a spoonful of cream cheese or pesto inside each roll.
• Swap cheddar with Gouda, mozzarella, or goat cheese for different flavors.
• Make it spicier : Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or Sriracha mayo .

🧠 Nutritional Highlights

While indulgent, these roll-ups offer satisfying nutrition:

• Ham provides lean protein and flavor punch .
• Cheddar cheese delivers calcium and healthy fats .
• Crescent dough gives energy-rich carbs — great for active days.
• Enjoy in moderation — especially with greens or fresh sides.

📝 Final Thoughts

These Ham & Cheddar Crescent Roll-Ups prove that sometimes the best recipes come from your fridge and pantry — no complicated steps required. With their buttery crust , melty cheese , and savory ham center , they’re the kind of dish that brings smiles to the table and warmth to your soul.

Whether you’re making them for breakfast, snacks, or dinner, this recipe delivers bold flavor and total satisfaction in under 20 minutes.

So grab your crescent roll dough, layer in that ham and cheese, and get ready to fall in love with every golden, flaky bite!