Transform a simple can of dough into something spectacular with these easy garlic Parmesan Italian crescent rolls. This recipe brings together a classic savory flavor profile with the convenience of store-bought dough.
You can whip up these flavorful bites in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. These Italian crescent rolls are a delicious, Italian-inspired addition to any meal or gathering.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Italian Crescent Rolls
Making delicious food should be simple and enjoyable, especially for busy parents and beginners. These Italian crescent rolls deliver on all fronts, quickly becoming a family favorite.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need five basic items, most of which you might already have.
- Super Quick to Prepare: From start to finish, these are ready in less than 20 minutes.
- Irresistible Garlic-Parmesan Flavor: The savory, aromatic combination is always a hit.
- Versatile Side Dish: They complement nearly any meal, from pasta to soup.
- Always a Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves warm, buttery, cheesy bread, making these perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Italian crescent rolls. This recipe relies on readily available items, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience.
- 2 cans of Pillsbury Crescent Roll Dough (or your preferred brand)
- 4 Tablespoons of salted butter, melted
- 1 tsp. garlic salt (Lawry’s is a great choice)
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 – 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these simple modifications.
- Crescent Rolls: Any brand of canned crescent roll dough works wonderfully. Choose flaky or buttery styles based on your preference for these savory Italian crescent roll bites.
- Butter: If using unsalted butter, simply add a tiny pinch more salt to the mixture. For a dairy-free option, substitute with olive oil.
- Garlic Salt: Adjust the amount to your taste, or use garlic powder and add a separate pinch of salt. You can also press 1-2 cloves of fresh minced garlic into the butter for an extra punch.
- Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have a pre-mixed blend, combine dried oregano, basil, and a touch of thyme.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor and texture. Feel free to try other hard, salty cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a slightly different note.
Equipment
You don’t need fancy tools to make these Italian crescent rolls. Just a few basic kitchen items will get the job done efficiently.
- Baking sheet (lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup)
- Small microwave-safe bowl
- Pastry brush
- Measuring spoons
Instructions For These Italian Crescent Rolls
Creating these easy garlic Parmesan Italian crescent rolls is a breeze. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve perfectly golden and flavorful results every time. Remember, the goal is simple, delicious baking!
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Always ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Melt Butter Mixture: In a small microwave-safe dish, combine the 4 tablespoons of salted butter, 1 teaspoon of garlic salt, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Microwave the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the butter is completely melted and the ingredients are well combined. Stir it briefly to ensure everything is incorporated.
- Prepare Dough: Carefully unroll both cans of crescent roll dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Separate the dough into individual triangles. Lay them flat, ensuring they don’t overlap too much.
- Brush with Flavor: Using a pastry brush, generously coat each crescent roll triangle with the melted garlic butter mixture. Ensure you cover the entire surface of each triangle to maximize flavor.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle about 1/2 tablespoon of shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over each butter-brushed dough triangle. This creates a delightful cheesy layer inside.
- Roll Up Crescents: Starting from the wider end of each triangle, gently roll up the dough towards the narrower point. Form them into the classic crescent shape.
- Final Brush & Bake Prep: Arrange the rolled Italian crescent rolls on the lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each. Brush the tops of the rolled crescents with any remaining garlic butter mixture. This adds extra flavor and helps them achieve a beautiful golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up and turn a lovely golden brown color. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes as ovens can vary.
- Serve Warm: Remove the baked Italian crescent rolls from the oven. You can brush them with a bit more melted butter if desired for extra richness. Serve them warm immediately to enjoy their best flavor and texture. They are truly irresistible straight from the oven!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving perfect Italian crescent rolls is easy with a few insider tips. These suggestions help you refine your technique and solve common baking dilemmas.
- Golden Brown Perfection: Ovens vary, so start checking your rolls at the 10-minute mark. You want them lightly golden, not overly dark.
- Preventing Soggy Bottoms: Avoid applying excessive butter to the very bottom of the dough triangle. A good brush on the top and middle is enough.
- Flavor Adjustment: Always start with the recommended amount of garlic salt. You can always add a sprinkle more after baking if you desire a stronger flavor.
- Even Cheese Distribution: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese as evenly as possible over the dough triangles. This ensures every bite gets a cheesy boost.
- Handling Sticky Dough: If your crescent dough feels a bit sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour before handling and rolling.
Serving, Storage & Variations
These versatile garlic Parmesan Italian crescent rolls are perfect for many occasions. Learn how to serve them best, store leftovers, and even create exciting new flavor combinations.
Serving Suggestions
These warm, savory bites complement a wide array of meals.
- Perfect with Pasta Dishes: Serve them alongside your favorite spaghetti, lasagna, or chicken alfredo.
- Great Alongside Soups or Salads: They’re ideal for dipping into a hearty minestrone or enjoying with a fresh green salad.
- Serve as an Easy Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter for parties or casual get-togethers.
- Pair with Roasted Chicken or Fish: The garlic Parmesan flavor enhances any roasted main course.
Storage Instructions
You can easily enjoy your delicious Italian crescent roll bites again later.
- Store Leftovers: Place any leftover rolls in an airtight container once completely cooled.
- Room Temperature: They stay fresh on the counter for up to one day.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes or briefly in the microwave.
Variations
Get creative and customize your Italian crescent rolls with these tasty additions.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your butter mixture for a little heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the rolls just before serving for brightness.
- Extra Cheesy: Tuck a small pinch of shredded mozzarella or provolone inside each roll before rolling them up.
- Savory Bites: Before rolling, add finely diced pepperoni, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to the dough.
- Herb Butter: Elevate the flavor by using homemade garlic herb butter instead of the simple melted butter mixture.
Nutrition
These Italian crescent rolls offer a delightful treat that fits well into many meal plans. Keep in mind that specific nutritional values can vary based on the brands of ingredients you choose.
They typically provide carbohydrates, fats, and some protein, making them a satisfying addition to your meal. For precise dietary information, consider using an online nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.
| Nutrient | Amount (approx. per roll) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120-150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8-10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4-5 g |
| Cholesterol | 10-15 mg |
| Sodium | 250-300 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10-15 g |
| Dietary Fiber | <1 g |
| Total Sugars | <1 g |
| Protein | 3-4 g |
Values are estimates and can vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use puff pastry instead?
Puff pastry will give you a flakier texture, but it bakes differently. Adjust baking time and temperature if you choose puff pastry.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can prepare the butter mixture and grate the cheese in advance. Rolling and baking is best done just before serving for optimal freshness.
How long do leftovers last?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for one day or in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
Making delicious, homemade food doesn’t have to be complicated. These easy garlic Parmesan Italian crescent rolls are a testament to how simple ingredients and a few minutes in the kitchen can create something truly wonderful. They are the perfect beginner-friendly recipe, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
According to culinary historians, the modern-day croissant, similar in shape to the crescent roll, was inspired by the Austrian kipferl pastry. Add these incredibly simple and delicious Italian crescent rolls to your meal plan today, and watch them disappear! I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below.
Garlic Parmesan Italian Crescent Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small microwave‑safe bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning. Microwave 1‑2 minutes until the butter is fully melted, then stir to combine.
- Unroll both cans of crescent roll dough onto the lined baking sheet. Separate into individual triangles.
- Brush each triangle generously with the garlic‑butter mixture. Sprinkle about ½‑cup shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered dough.
- Starting at the wide end of each triangle, roll toward the point to form crescent shapes. Place them on the baking sheet leaving space between each.
- Brush the tops of the rolled crescents with any remaining butter mixture.
- Bake for 11‑13 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from oven, optionally brush with more melted butter, serve warm immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
- Uses store‑bought crescent roll dough for convenience.
- Omit oil in dough mix.
- Adjust garlic salt, butter type, or cheese to suit taste or dietary needs.
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