Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls Recipe

Name: Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 rolls); 6 oz crab meat (fresh, canned, or imitation, drained and chopped if needed); 4 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 green onions, finely chopped; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing); Garlic salt or chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Alright, friends, get ready for a little magic in your kitchen because these Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are straight-up dreamy. We’re talking buttery, flaky crescent dough wrapped around a luscious filling of creamy cheese, tender crab meat, and a pop of green onion for just the right amount of freshness. They bake up golden and crisp on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, and are perfect for everything from cozy nights in to impressing your guests at a party. They feel indulgent, taste like you spent hours in the kitchen (spoiler alert: you didn’t), and are honestly addictive. One bite and you’ll know exactly what I mean this recipe’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy – Minimal prep, maximum flavor. You can whip these up in under 30 minutes, and trust me, they’ll disappear even faster.
Crowd-pleaser – These little rolls bring people together. They’re that kind of finger food that has everyone reaching for “just one more.”
Versatile – Perfect for holidays, game days, brunches, or when you just need something delicious to snack on.
Next-level flavor – The combo of creamy, cheesy, and crabby with a flaky pastry shell? It’s a total flavor bomb rich, savory, and slightly sweet with a buttery finish.

Ingredients

Flat lay of crescent, crab meat, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, spices, and melted butter — Everything you need to make flaky, cheesy, crab-filled crescent rolls fresh, simple ingredients for big flavor.

(Note: Full measurements are in the recipe card at the bottom!)

Refrigerated crescent roll dough – Store-bought dough keeps things easy and delivers that light, flaky texture we love.
Crab meat – Sweet, tender, and luxurious. You can use fresh, canned, or even imitation crab whatever works for you!
Cream cheese – Makes the filling ultra creamy and holds everything together. Room temp is best for easy mixing.
Shredded cheddar cheese – Adds sharp, melty richness to the filling. Feel free to swap with your favorite melty cheese.
Green onions – For a bit of bite and color they brighten up the richness beautifully.
Garlic powder – Subtle savory depth that kicks up the flavor without overpowering the crab.
Salt & pepper – Simple, essential, and perfect for balancing the flavors.

Note: Ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card right below this article.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven & prep

First things first preheat your oven (usually 375°F is the sweet spot, but check your crescent roll package to be sure). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat so nothing sticks.

Step 2: Mix the filling

In a medium bowl, combine your crab meat, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until it’s creamy and evenly mixed. This is the heart of the recipe a rich, savory, cheesy crab filling that’s packed with flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the rolls

Unroll your crescent dough and separate it into triangles along the perforations. Place a heaping spoonful of the crab filling at the wide end of each triangle. Then, starting from the wide end, roll it up toward the tip, tucking in the sides if you like to keep the filling snug. Arrange them on your prepared baking sheet, point-side down.

Step 4: Bake

Pop them into the oven and bake until golden brown and slightly puffed about 12–15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden finish without overbaking. Let them cool for just a few minutes before serving (but honestly, they’re irresistible while warm).

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overfill – A little filling goes a long way, and too much can cause it to ooze out during baking. Keep it tidy!
Use cold dough – If your crescent dough is too warm, it can get sticky and hard to work with. Keep it chilled until ready to assemble.
Add extra flair – Brushing the tops with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic salt or parsley before baking? Chef’s kiss.
Upgrade the filling – Feeling fancy? Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for a spicy seafood twist.

How to Serve

These rolls are made to be shared… or not (no judgment). Serve them warm with dipping sauces like tangy cocktail sauce, creamy ranch, or even a zesty aioli. They’re perfect as a party appetizer, brunch addition, or just a snack for a cozy night in. Pair them with a light salad or soup for a simple, satisfying meal. Pro tip: they go really well with a glass of chilled white wine or a crisp beer.

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you loved these Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls, trust me you’re going to want to try a few more of my favorite easy, crowd-pleasing recipes! Whether you’re planning a cozy breakfast or craving a quick coffee fix, I’ve got you covered:

Breakfast Cows in a Blanket – Think classic pigs in a blanket but made for breakfast lovers. Flaky dough wrapped around sausage and eggs? Yes, please.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast – Sweet, fluffy, and perfect for brunch, this twist on traditional French toast is always a hit.
Javy Coffee Recipes – Looking to upgrade your morning brew? These quick and creative Javy Coffee recipes will totally energize your routine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the rolls cool completely, then pop them into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully and still taste amazing the next day.

Freezing

You can totally freeze these! Once baked and cooled, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, just bake at 350°F until warmed through no need to thaw.

Reheating

The oven or air fryer is your best friend here it keeps them crispy and flaky. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it softens the pastry too much.

FAQs

Can I use canned or imitation crab meat?

Yes! While fresh crab is amazing, canned or imitation crab meat totally works. Just drain canned crab well and chop imitation crab into small pieces before mixing.

Can I make these in advance and bake later?

Absolutely. Assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!

What other cheese can I use besides cheddar?

Any melty cheese will work! Try mozzarella for extra gooeyness, Monterey Jack for a mild twist, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Can I make these without seafood?

Of course! Swap the crab for cooked, shredded chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a non-seafood version that’s just as delicious.

These Crab & Cheese Filled Crescent Rolls are the kind of snack or appetizer that brings instant smiles. They’re quick, packed with flavor, and just feel special whether you’re serving them for a celebration or just treating yourself to something a little indulgent. Once you try them, they’ll definitely earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation. Go ahead, grab that crescent dough and get rolling your taste buds are in for a treat! Let me know how they turn out, and don’t forget to save a few for yourself… if you can.