Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups

This cheesy garlic butter rollup recipe transforms simple refrigerated dough into an irresistible appetizer that disappears within minutes at any gathering. The combination of gooey cheese and aromatic garlic butter creates spirals of flavor that both kids and adults find impossible to resist.

I first made these rollups for a last minute game night with friends and they were such a hit that they've become my signature contribution to potlucks. The combination of that golden brown exterior with the melty cheese center makes them absolutely addictive.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet refrigerated crescent dough or pizza dough: fresh dough creates the best texture but store bought saves precious time
• 180 grams shredded mozzarella cheese: use low moisture mozzarella for best melting properties
• 30 grams grated parmesan cheese: the aged variety adds a wonderful depth of flavor
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: this blend of herbs enhances the savory profile
• 55 grams unsalted butter melted: unsalted allows you to control the saltiness
• 3 cloves garlic minced: fresh garlic provides the most robust flavor
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley: adds color and a fresh herbal note
• Pinch of salt: just enough to enhance all the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 190°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Prepare the Dough:

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to form a rectangle. Make sure the dough is even in thickness for consistent cooking.

Apply First Layer of Flavor:

Brush the surface of the dough lightly with some of the prepared garlic butter mixture. Be sure to reserve the majority of the butter for later use as this initial layer is just to help the cheese adhere.

Add the Cheese Layer:

Evenly sprinkle the mozzarella parmesan and Italian seasoning across the entire dough surface. Ensure even distribution for consistent flavor in every bite.

Create the Spiral:

Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. The tighter you roll the more defined your spiral pattern will be. Use a sharp knife to slice into approximately 4 centimetre pieces.

Arrange for Baking:

Place the rollups with the spiral side facing up onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave a small gap between each piece to allow for expansion during baking.

Final Butter Application:

Brush the tops and sides of each rollup with the remaining garlic butter. This step ensures maximum flavor and helps create that golden exterior.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is visibly bubbling. The exact time may vary depending on your oven.

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My absolute favorite way to enjoy these is with a side of warm marinara sauce. There's something magical about the combination of the garlic butter cheese and that slightly tangy tomato sauce that takes me back to childhood pizza parties but with a more sophisticated twist.

Storage Tips

These cheesy garlic butter rollups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating place them in a 175°C oven for about 5 minutes rather than using a microwave which can make them soggy. If you want to freeze them arrange the unbaked rollups on a baking sheet freeze until solid then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from frozen adding about 5 minutes to the cooking time.

Customization Options

The beauty of these rollups lies in their versatility. You can transform them by adding thinly sliced pepperoni between the cheese layer for a pizza version or incorporating wilted spinach and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a florentine variation. For breakfast rollups consider adding scrambled eggs and crispy bacon bits. You can even go sweet by skipping the garlic and using cinnamon sugar butter with a cream cheese filling instead.

Serving Suggestions

While these rollups are perfect on their own they truly shine as part of a larger spread. Pair them with a Caesar salad for a light lunch or serve alongside pasta for a more substantial meal. For entertaining arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces like pesto ranch or even a spicy sriracha mayo. They also make excellent companions to soup particularly tomato or minestrone varieties.

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Common Queries

→ Can I use pizza dough instead of crescent dough?

Yes, both refrigerated crescent and pizza dough work well for this dish. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.

→ Which cheese melts best in the rollups?

Mozzarella provides a lovely melt and stretch, while parmesan adds a savory, nutty flavor. Using both delivers great texture and taste.

→ How can I enhance the flavor?

Try adding chopped pepperoni, cooked bacon, or spinach to the cheese filling before rolling up the dough for extra flavor.

→ What’s the best dipping sauce?

Marinara and ranch are classic choices, but you can also pair with pesto or garlic aioli for a twist.

→ Can these be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate the rollups ahead. Bake fresh before serving for the best texture and taste.

→ Are they good for parties or lunchboxes?

Absolutely! Serve warm at gatherings, or pack cooled rollups in lunchboxes for an easy, savory treat.