Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups

Flaky, golden crescent rolls wrap around layers of savory ham and melted cheese to create the ultimate handheld comfort food. With buttery tops and an optional hint of garlic and parsley, these roll-ups are the kind of snack or appetizer that disappears as fast as you can make them. Perfect for casual gatherings, lunchboxes, or cozy family brunches, these Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups are endlessly adaptable and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether served plain or with your favorite dipping sauce, they’re always a guaranteed hit.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
8 slices deli ham
8 slices cheddar cheese (or Swiss, if preferred)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles.
Place one slice of ham and one slice of cheese onto the wide end of each triangle. Add a small smear of Dijon mustard if desired.
Roll up each crescent from the wide end to the narrow tip and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Brush the tops of each roll-up with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and parsley.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve warm, optionally with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 8 roll-ups

A Classic Made Easy: The Appeal of Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups

Ham and cheese is a timeless pairing, beloved for its savory simplicity and comforting flavor. Whether layered into a sandwich, melted into a croissant, or served warm in a quiche, the combination never fails. But when you wrap this iconic duo in buttery crescent dough and bake it to golden perfection, something magical happens—that’s exactly what you get with Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups.

This recipe is more than just a snack or quick meal—it’s a go-to solution for busy mornings, last-minute appetizers, school lunches, and even cozy family brunches. With only a handful of ingredients and virtually no prep time, it’s one of the most satisfying and versatile recipes you can keep in your rotation.

The History of Crescent Roll Creations

Crescent rolls, with their flaky layers and buttery texture, were inspired by the croissants of France but became an American kitchen staple thanks to the invention of canned crescent dough in the mid-20th century. Pillsbury’s ready-to-bake version made it easier than ever for home cooks to whip up bakery-style treats in their own ovens.

From that point on, crescent dough has been used in everything from savory pinwheels to sweet breakfast braids. This ham and cheese roll-up recipe takes advantage of its convenience and versatility while tapping into the classic deli flavors everyone knows and loves.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

This recipe hits all the right notes—crispy, melty, savory, and satisfying. Here’s why it’s such a crowd-pleaser:

Minimal Ingredients: Just crescent dough, deli ham, and cheese are enough to create a warm, melty snack that tastes like it took far more effort than it did.
Customizable Flavors: You can switch up the cheese, add spreads like mustard or garlic butter, and use various deli meats to change the flavor profile.
Quick and Easy: From fridge to table in under 25 minutes, it’s perfect for last-minute guests or hungry kids.
Kid-Friendly: Children love how handheld and cheesy these roll-ups are, and they’re easy to eat with minimal mess.
Elegant or Casual: Serve them on a party tray with dipping sauces, or enjoy them with scrambled eggs on a lazy Sunday morning.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or planning a party menu, these roll-ups fit the bill every time.

Nutritional Breakdown and Ingredient Benefits

While crescent roll-ups are considered indulgent comfort food, you can make smart choices to balance their nutrition. Here’s what each main ingredient offers:

Ham: A lean protein source that’s easy to digest and packed with nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Opt for low-sodium or nitrate-free ham for a healthier version.
Cheese: Provides calcium and protein while adding that irresistible melt. Cheddar, Swiss, or provolone are excellent choices. Reduced-fat versions work just as well.
Crescent Dough: Offers carbs for quick energy. You can choose reduced-fat or whole grain dough to improve fiber content.
Optional Add-ins: Dijon mustard, garlic powder, or herbs like parsley enhance flavor without adding unnecessary calories.

One roll-up contains around 250–300 calories depending on the cheese and ham type used. Paired with a side salad or fruit, it becomes a balanced light meal.

How to Make the Perfect Roll-Up Every Time

While this recipe is nearly foolproof, here are some tips to elevate your roll-ups:

Use Thin Ham Slices: Thin slices roll more easily and melt better with the cheese.
Layer Thoughtfully: Place cheese under the ham to prevent soggy dough. Or mix it up for different textures.
Brush with Butter: A light coat of melted butter on top creates that golden, glossy finish and enhances flavor.
Add Seasonings: Garlic powder, dried herbs, or poppy seeds on top create a bakery-style result.
Cool Slightly Before Serving: Let the roll-ups rest for a couple of minutes out of the oven to allow the cheese to settle and prevent burns from hot fillings.

With just a few tweaks, you’ll find yourself perfecting your own signature version of this classic dish.

Creative Twists and Variations

Once you’ve made the original version, you can start experimenting with exciting combinations and twists. Try any of the following:

Italian Style: Use sliced salami or pepperoni, mozzarella, and a little marinara sauce inside.
Breakfast Roll-Ups: Add scrambled eggs and crumbled sausage with cheddar. Serve with hot sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Swap ham for sautéed spinach and mushrooms with Swiss or provolone.
Gourmet Touch: Add brie and thinly sliced apples for a savory-sweet combination.
Spicy Kick: Spread a thin layer of sriracha mayo or jalapeño cream cheese inside the dough.
Mini Versions: Cut dough triangles in half for bite-sized party snacks or kids’ lunchboxes.

This kind of versatility makes the roll-up format endlessly adaptable to season, taste, or occasion.

Serving Ideas for Any Occasion

Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups can be served in a variety of settings. Here are some serving suggestions to make them fit any meal or moment:

Brunch Boards: Add them to a platter with fruit, yogurt parfaits, and fresh pastries for a stylish brunch spread.
Lunchboxes: Include a couple of cooled roll-ups with veggie sticks and a fruit cup for a fun midday meal.
After-School Snack: Warm up one or two and pair with apple slices or a smoothie for a filling snack.
Game Day Appetizers: Serve alongside dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara during football season.
Dinner Side: Serve with a warm bowl of tomato soup or creamy broccoli cheddar for a comforting dinner.

These roll-ups are easy to dress up or down depending on what you’re serving them with.

Great for Make-Ahead and Freezing

These roll-ups aren’t just quick to prepare—they’re also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a full batch, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for a crisp texture.

Want to freeze them? No problem. Wrap each cooked roll individually in foil or parchment paper, store in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes from frozen, or until warmed through.

This make-ahead functionality makes them ideal for busy families or anyone trying to streamline their weeknight meals.

Getting Kids Involved in the Kitchen

This recipe is also a great opportunity to get your kids involved in the kitchen. The steps are simple and safe, making it perfect for little hands. Let them unroll the dough, layer the ham and cheese, and help roll them up before baking.

Kids who participate in making food are often more excited to eat it—especially if it’s warm and cheesy. It also teaches them the basics of assembly, measuring, and kitchen safety. Plus, it’s a fun bonding activity for parents and kids to do together.

Dips, Sauces, and Add-Ons

Want to take your roll-ups to the next level? Serve them with dips or side sauces for even more flavor. Here are a few fan favorites:

Honey mustard
Ranch dressing
Garlic aioli
Hot sauce or buffalo sauce
Marinara
Dijon-honey blend
Cheese dip (for the ultimate cheese-lover’s experience)

These dips elevate your roll-ups from simple to sensational and give guests more ways to enjoy them.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups are the kind of recipe that proves simple really is best. They offer everything you want from comfort food—cheesy, warm, flaky goodness—while being unbelievably quick and easy to make. With their customizable fillings, freezer-friendly nature, and crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s no surprise they’ve become a go-to favorite in kitchens everywhere. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping party food, or just want something warm and satisfying in a hurry, this recipe delivers every single time. Once you try them, you’ll understand why people make them again and again.