Stuffed Pepperoni Crescent Rolls

These pepperoni crescent rolls transform ordinary store-bought dough into an irresistible appetizer that disappears within minutes at every gathering. The combination of gooey melted cheese and savory pepperoni wrapped in flaky pastry creates the perfect handheld bite that both kids and adults adore.

I first made these for my nephew's birthday party when I needed something quick that would please picky eaters. They were such a hit that they've become my go-to contribution for potlucks and family gatherings ever since.

Ingredients

• 2 tubes crescent roll dough provides the perfect flaky base without having to make dough from scratch
• Sliced pepperoni adds that classic pizza flavor look for ones with minimal preservatives for best taste
• String cheese sticks guarantee the perfect amount of cheese in each bite and create that satisfying cheese pull
• Egg wash creates a beautiful golden brown exterior that looks professional
• Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory crust and extra flavor dimension
• Italian seasoning brings all the flavors together with minimal effort

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier. Allow your oven to fully preheat before baking for even cooking results.

Prepare the Dough

Open the crescent roll tubes and carefully unroll the dough on a clean surface. Separate along the perforated lines to create individual triangles. If any triangles tear slightly, gently press them back together with your fingertips.

Add the Fillings

Place 6 pepperoni slices slightly overlapping in the center of each triangle, starting from the wide end. Top with half a string cheese stick. Be careful not to overfill or the dough may tear during rolling.

Roll the Crescents

Starting from the wide end of each triangle, roll the dough toward the pointed tip, tucking in any loose edges as you go. Place each roll on the prepared baking sheet with the tip side down to prevent unraveling during baking.

Add Toppings

Beat the egg in a small bowl until completely combined. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat each crescent with egg wash for a golden finish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, gently pressing the toppings into the dough.

Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 15 minutes until the crescents are puffed and golden brown. The cheese should be melted inside and may bubble out slightly at the edges.

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My favorite thing about these rolls is watching people's faces light up when they take that first bite and the cheese stretches out in a perfect pull. It reminds me of pizza night with my family growing up, but in a much more convenient form that doesn't require plates or utensils.

Make-Ahead Options

These crescent rolls can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply prepare them through the rolling stage, arrange on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash, add toppings, and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes beyond the regular baking time. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to prepare food in advance.

Creative Variations

The basic recipe serves as a wonderful template for countless variations. Try substituting the pepperoni with cooked sausage, ham, or bacon for a different meat option. Vegetarian versions work beautifully with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone instead of the string cheese. For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a thin spread of pesto before rolling.

Serving Suggestions

While these rolls are delicious on their own, they truly shine when served with dipping options. Warm marinara sauce is the classic choice, but ranch dressing, garlic butter, or a spicy arrabbiata sauce also pair wonderfully. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. They make an excellent addition to a party spread alongside other finger foods like meatballs, veggie platters, and stuffed mushrooms.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different fillings for these crescent rolls?

Absolutely! These crescent rolls are incredibly versatile. Try using ham and cheddar, cooked sausage, or vegetarian options like spinach and feta. You can also add extras like diced bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms to customize the flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftover pepperoni crescent rolls?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or use a microwave for 20-30 seconds until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese from becoming too rubbery.

→ Can I make these crescent rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare these rolls a few hours ahead of time. Assemble them completely, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add 1-2 minutes to the baking time when cooking from chilled. For best results, apply the egg wash just before baking.

→ What can I serve with pepperoni crescent rolls?

These rolls pair wonderfully with warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. They also complement a green salad, vegetable soup, or antipasto platter for a complete meal. For a casual gathering, serve alongside other finger foods like meatballs, chicken wings, or vegetable crudités.

→ Are these suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze these crescent rolls. For best results, freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

→ Can I use regular sliced cheese instead of string cheese?

Absolutely! While string cheese creates a nice, contained filling, you can substitute regular sliced mozzarella or any melting cheese cut into strips. Just make sure to enclose the cheese fully within the dough to prevent excessive leakage during baking.