If you are looking for a delightful way to combine gooey cheese, savory beef, and flaky crescent dough, you will adore this Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a warm, comforting bite that hits all the right notes—the melty cheese weaving perfectly through seasoned ground beef, all wrapped in a golden, tender crust. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a satisfying snack, these roll-ups marry ease and flavor beautifully, making every bite a little celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and aroma. From the spiced beef to the smooth, stretchy cheese and the buttery crescent dough, these basics come together to craft something extraordinary without fuss.
- 1 pound ground beef: This forms the hearty, savory foundation that gives each roll-up its satisfying beefy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the beef.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, fragrant note that complements the meat perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a mild sweetness and sharpness that balances the spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a smoky undertone and vibrant color to the filling.
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce: Moistens the filling with a touch of tangy tomato goodness.
- 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count): The flaky, buttery dough that wraps all the flavors in a golden crust.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Delivers that luscious, melty texture that makes these roll-ups irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brush over the dough, promoting a lovely golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Gives a herby aroma and added savory notes to the crust.
- Grated Parmesan and chopped parsley (optional): Perfect for topping, adding a fresh and cheesy finish.
How to Make Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the seasoned beef mixture
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it is fully browned and no longer pink. As it cooks, drain any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy. Then, stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and marinara sauce to the beef. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thickens. Once ready, remove from heat and let the mixture cool just enough to handle safely.
Step 2: Roll out the crescent dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean surface and separate it into 8 triangles. These triangles are the perfect vessel for holding your flavorful beef and cheese mixture, shaping each roll-up into a neat, handheld treat.
Step 3: Assemble the roll-ups
Spoon a small amount of the beef mixture onto the wide end of each triangle, making sure to leave space so the filling won’t spill out. Top the beef with a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, which will melt beautifully inside the dough. Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle towards the tip, completely enclosing the filling inside the dough.
Step 4: Prepare for baking
Place each rolled triangle on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Brush the tops with olive oil to encourage browning and, if you like, sprinkle Italian seasoning on top to add an extra layer of herbaceous flavor that crisps up during baking.
Step 5: Bake the roll-ups
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the roll-ups are puffed, golden brown, and irresistible. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, ensuring that each bite stays tender and moist inside.
Step 6: Final touches and serving
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan and chopped parsley if using, lending a lovely cheesy and fresh visual appeal. Serve these roll-ups warm, alongside your favorite dipping sauces like extra marinara or ranch for a deliciously satisfying snack or meal.
How to Serve Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and bright, chopped parsley instantly elevates the presentation and introduces a fresh note that balances the richness. These finishing touches add color and an extra layer of flavor that will delight your guests.
Side Dishes
Pair these roll-ups with crisp side salads, roasted vegetables, or even a simple coleslaw to introduce freshness and crunch. If you are serving these as a main dish, consider warming some garlic bread or offering a bowl of soup for a complete, cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family dinners, serve the roll-ups on a large wooden board with small bowls of different dips—think tangy marinara, creamy ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo. You can also cut larger roll-ups into bite-sized pinwheels for fun finger food. Another idea is chilling cooked roll-ups, slicing them, and serving cold with a dipping sauce for a nifty appetizer or lunchbox treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their delicious texture, layer them carefully to prevent squashing and keep them fresh for easy snacking later.
Freezing
These roll-ups freeze wonderfully. To freeze, wrap each roll-up tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, providing an effortless heat-and-eat meal option whenever you need one.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy your stored Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe, reheat them in an oven set to 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the dough may become soggy and lose its charm.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices for their meltability and flavor, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or provolone for a unique twist on the roll-ups.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with cooked, seasoned lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just season them well to capture that savory essence and continue with the recipe as usual.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. This makes assembly much quicker when you’re ready to roll and bake the Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe.
What dipping sauces work best?
Marinara sauce and ranch are classic companions for these roll-ups, but honey mustard, chipotle mayo, or even a creamy garlic dip also pair wonderfully, bringing different flavor profiles to the table.
Can I make these gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe, use gluten-free crescent roll dough or pizza dough alternatives. The filling is naturally gluten-free, so swapping the dough is a simple swap for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There is something irresistibly comforting about these Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe that makes them a go-to for easy entertaining and weeknight dinners alike. With each step designed to deliver maximum flavor while being wonderfully straightforward, this recipe invites you to enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade dish that feels both special and cozy. Trust me, once you try making these, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give them a go—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll-ups
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Beefy Roll-Ups are an easy and delicious appetizer or snack featuring flavorful ground beef wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough and baked to golden perfection. Stuffed with savory seasonings and gooey melted cheese, they’re perfect for parties, lunches, or a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
Dough & Toppings
- 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough (8-count)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cook the beef mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain excess fat to reduce greasiness. Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and marinara sauce. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool a bit to make it easier to handle.
- Prepare the crescent dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into the 8 pre-cut triangles. These will be the base for your roll-ups.
- Assemble roll-ups: Spoon a small amount of the cooled beef mixture onto the wide end of each triangle. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the beef. Roll each triangle from the wide end toward the pointed tip, enclosing the filling securely inside.
- Apply finishing touches: Place the roll-ups on the prepared baking sheet spaced slightly apart. Brush each with olive oil to help them brown nicely. If desired, sprinkle Italian seasoning on top for added flavor.
- Bake: Bake the roll-ups in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown on the outside.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the baked roll-ups from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for extra taste and color. Serve warm with extra marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute the crescent rolls with pizza dough cut into triangles if preferred.
- These roll-ups make a great party appetizer, easy lunchbox treat, or quick dinner option.
- For added flavor and a kick, mix in chopped pickles or jalapeños into the beef filling.
