Irresistible Cheddar Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls with Old Bay: Your Ultimate Quick & Flavorful Side Dish

Prepare to elevate your weeknight meals and impress your guests with these incredibly easy-to-make Cheddar Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls. Infused with the iconic kick of Old Bay seasoning and generously filled with gooey, sharp cheddar cheese, these rolls deliver a delightful “Cheddar-Bay” experience in a convenient, three-ingredient package. Perfect for busy evenings, spontaneous gatherings, or whenever a craving for something warm, cheesy, and savory strikes, these golden-brown delights are ready in mere minutes and are guaranteed to be devoured by everyone at the table.

While this recipe focuses on speed and simplicity using store-bought dough, aspiring bakers who love to craft from scratch might enjoy exploring options like our Hawaiian Sweet Rolls recipe for homemade dough alternatives.

Why These Quick Cheddar Bay Crescent Rolls Will Become Your Go-To

The culinary world has seen countless renditions of Red Lobster’s famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits, and for good reason—that cheesy, garlicky, herby flavor combination is truly irresistible. My own kitchen has produced several takes, including the decadent Shrimp Gravy over Cheddar, Bay, and Bacon Biscuits and a lighter Low Carb Cheddar Bay Biscuits recipe. However, this recipe for Cheddar Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls offers a distinct advantage: unparalleled ease and speed without sacrificing that beloved “cheddar-Bay” essence.

Unlike more elaborate biscuit recipes that require mixing, cutting, and often chilling dough from scratch, these stuffed crescent rolls leverage the convenience of pre-made refrigerated dough. This transforms what could be a time-consuming baking project into a simple 15-minute affair (5 minutes prep, 10 minutes bake time!). It’s not aiming to be a direct copycat; instead, it provides a unique, fluffy, and savory alternative that perfectly captures the spirit of that comforting flavor profile in an accessible format. The flaky layers of crescent dough, coupled with the rich, melty cheddar and savory Old Bay, create a harmonious blend that is both familiar and exciting. This recipe is designed for those moments when you need a quick win in the kitchen—a delicious side dish or appetizer that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. They are so popular, you’ll rarely find leftovers!

Beyond their speed and simplicity, these Old Bay crescent rolls are incredibly versatile. They pair well with almost any meal, from a simple weeknight roast chicken to a celebratory holiday feast. Their savory profile and comforting texture make them an instant hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the minimal cleanup means less time scrubbing pans and more time enjoying your delicious creation. Consider them your secret weapon for adding a homemade touch to any meal without the stress.

Simple Ingredients for Incredible Flavor

One of the true beauties of these Cheddar Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls with Old Bay lies in their minimalist ingredient list. Much like my popular Sausage and Boursin Pinwheels, you only need three core components to bring these mouthwatering rolls to life. The simplicity makes them a fantastic option for beginner cooks or anyone looking to whip up something delicious without a pantry full of specialty items.

• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: This is your primary shortcut and the foundation of these easy rolls. Available in most grocery stores, these convenient tubes of dough unroll into ready-to-use triangles. You’ll typically find them in two sizes: a smaller package yielding 4 rolls or a larger one producing 8. Choose according to your serving needs. The quality of your dough can subtly affect the final texture, so opt for a reputable brand for the best flakiness and buttery flavor. Ensure it’s kept refrigerated until just before use for optimal handling.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the stuffing! Sharp cheddar provides a robust, tangy flavor that stands up beautifully to the Old Bay seasoning, creating that iconic “cheddar-Bay” essence. Whether you use pre-sliced cheese or shred a block yourself, aim for about half an ounce (roughly half a standard slice) per roll. Shredded cheddar tends to melt a bit more evenly and ooze delightfully, while a folded slice creates a more distinct pocket of cheese. For the best flavor, freshly shredded cheese often melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, which can contain anti-caking agents. Experiment to see which you prefer! For an even richer flavor, consider using extra sharp cheddar.
• Old Bay Seafood Seasoning: The secret ingredient that imparts that signature “Cheddar-Bay” character. Old Bay is a classic American blend of herbs and spices, including celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and various other savory notes. Its distinctive flavor is usually associated with seafood, but it creates a magical savory depth when paired with cheese and baked goods, mimicking the beloved Red Lobster biscuits. Don’t be shy with your sprinkles, but remember a little goes a long way to avoid over-salting. A sprinkle before rolling and another light sprinkle on top before baking ensures maximum flavor distribution and a beautiful speckled appearance.

The exact quantity of cheese and Old Bay seasoning can be adjusted to your personal taste. Generally, for an 8-count package of crescent rolls, you’ll use about 4 slices (or 4 ounces) of sharp cheddar, and Old Bay to taste. This minimalist approach proves that you don’t need a complex ingredient list to achieve incredibly satisfying results. Always make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best possible outcome.

Effortless Preparation: How to Make Cheddar Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls

This recipe truly shines in its simplicity. From package to plate, you’re looking at about 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Follow these straightforward steps to create perfectly golden and cheesy rolls:

• Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature for even baking as soon as your rolls are ready to go in. A properly preheated oven is key to achieving a flaky, golden crust and fully melted cheese.
• Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for effortless cleanup. A light spritz of cooking spray over the parchment or foil will further prevent sticking and promote a beautifully golden-brown crust, especially important for preventing any melted cheese from baking onto your pan.
• Unroll the Dough: Carefully open the tube of refrigerated crescent roll dough. Unroll the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface or directly onto your prepared baking sheet. It will typically form a large rectangle or two smaller rectangles.
• Separate into Triangles: The dough is conveniently perforated, making it easy to separate it into individual triangles. Lay them flat, with the wide end facing you. This orientation makes the stuffing and rolling process much simpler.
• Stuff with Cheese: Take about half a slice of sharp cheddar cheese (or approximately ½ ounce of shredded cheese). For sliced cheese, folding it into quarters often works best to create a neat packet that fits well at the wide end of the triangle. Place the cheese at the wider, base end of each dough triangle. Ensure the cheese is centered to help prevent it from oozing out.
• Season Generously: Lightly sprinkle Old Bay seasoning over the cheese. This is where the magic happens, infusing that distinctive savory flavor directly into the heart of the roll. Adjust the amount to your preference – some like a subtle hint, others prefer a bolder kick.
• Roll Them Up: Starting from the wide end with the cheese, roll each triangle tightly towards the narrow tip. Make sure to tuck in the sides as you roll to seal the cheese inside. Gently curl the ends inward to form the classic crescent shape. Rolling tightly ensures the cheese stays put and the dough bakes evenly.
• A Final Flourish: Once all your crescent rolls are assembled and arranged on the baking sheet, give them another light sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning on top. This adds extra flavor and a beautiful visual appeal, creating a speckled, appetizing crust.
• Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up, beautifully golden brown, and the cheese inside is delightfully gooey and melted. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
• Serve Immediately: These rolls are undeniably best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, when the cheese is at its peak meltiness and the crust is wonderfully flaky and fragrant. The aroma alone is enough to get appetites going!

PRO TIP for Easy Cleanup: Always use parchment paper or aluminum foil on your baking pan. Even with non-stick pans, melted cheese can sometimes leak out and stick, making cleanup a chore. A quick spray of cooking oil on the foil/parchment will ensure the rolls release perfectly and the pan stays pristine! This small step saves a lot of time and effort post-meal.

Get Creative: Endless Variations and Flavor Combinations

While the classic Cheddar and Old Bay combination is a winning formula, this recipe for stuffed crescent rolls is incredibly versatile and encourages culinary experimentation. It’s a fantastic foundation for using up various cheeses or exploring different seasoning profiles to suit any meal or preference. The humble crescent roll is a blank canvas, and with a little imagination, you can transform these simple rolls into a side dish that perfectly complements any meal or occasion. Here are some ideas to inspire your next batch:

• Cheese Swaps:
  • Vermont White Cheddar: For a slightly sharper, more complex cheddar flavor without the orange hue, offering a gourmet touch.
  • Smoked Provolone: Adds a delightful smoky depth and a wonderfully stretchy melt that pairs excellently with baked dough.
  • Pepper Jack: If you enjoy a little heat, pepper jack offers a subtle spicy kick that’s not too overpowering.
  • Mozzarella & Parmesan Blend: A classic Italian cheese combination for a milder, extra-stretchy cheese pull. Consider adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or garlic powder with this blend.
  • Feta & Spinach: Crumble feta and mix with a tiny bit of cooked, thoroughly squeezed dry spinach for a savory Mediterranean twist. Ensure the spinach is very dry to avoid soggy rolls.
  • Cream Cheese & Chives: A softer, creamier filling with a fresh, mild oniony note. This variation is particularly delicious for brunch.
  • Gouda: Offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that melts beautifully and adds a sophisticated touch.

  The key is to maintain roughly 1/2 ounce of cheese per roll to ensure even cooking and melting without overstuffing.

• Seasoning Adventures:
  • Garlic & Herb Blend: A homemade or store-bought mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, oregano, and basil for an aromatic and classic savory twist.
  • Lemon Pepper: Adds a bright, zesty kick that wonderfully complements many savory dishes, especially if serving with fish or chicken.
  • Taco Seasoning: For a Tex-Mex inspired roll, especially good when paired with a Monterey Jack or Colby cheese. Serve with a side of salsa for dipping.
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning: Provides a fantastic crunch and savory blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sea salt. It adds a wonderful texture and robust flavor.
  • Ranch Seasoning: Offers a creamy, zesty flavor that is universally loved and incredibly versatile.
  • Rosemary & Sea Salt: A simple yet elegant combination, especially nice with a soft goat cheese or gruyere.

  When trying new seasonings, remember to sprinkle lightly at first and adjust to taste. Too much can overpower the delicate crescent dough and cheese.

• Savory Add-ins:
  • Cooked Bacon Bits: A sprinkle of crispy cooked bacon bits alongside the cheddar for a truly indulgent, smoky, and salty bite.
  • Diced Jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, a few finely diced fresh or pickled jalapeños can be tucked inside with the cheese. Remove seeds for less heat.
  • Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions add a gourmet touch and rich umami flavor when paired with a sharp cheese.
  • Finely Chopped Herbs: Fresh chives, parsley, dill, or thyme mixed with the cheese for added freshness and aromatic depth.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed and drained) can add a burst of sweet-tart flavor.

Experimenting with these variations can lead to exciting new family favorites and make these simple rolls feel like a completely new creation every time. Don’t be afraid to mix and match elements to find your perfect combination!

Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Rolls

These versatile cheddar cheese stuffed crescent rolls are much more than just a dinner roll; they can elevate a variety of meals or even serve as a delightful appetizer. Their comforting cheesy interior and savory Old Bay crust make them a crowd-pleaser in any setting. Their quick preparation time also means you can easily whip them up to complement almost any spontaneous meal.

• As a Side Dish: They are a natural pairing for many main courses. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork tenderloin, or a hearty steak. Their savory profile also complements classic comfort foods like meatloaf, pot roast, or a warm bowl of pasta beautifully. They add a touch of warmth and richness to any plate.
• Soup and Salad Companion: A warm, cheesy crescent roll is the perfect accompaniment to a fresh garden salad or a steaming bowl of soup. Imagine dipping one into a creamy tomato soup, a robust chili, or a rich French onion soup—pure bliss! They provide a satisfying textural contrast to lighter fare.
• Breakfast or Brunch Treat: Don’t reserve them just for dinner. These rolls make a fantastic addition to a breakfast or brunch spread. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, sausage, or a fresh fruit salad for a satisfying and flavorful start to your day. They’re an excellent savory option for any breakfast buffet.
• Appetizer Perfection: Cut them in half or serve them whole as a simple yet impressive appetizer for parties or gatherings. They pair wonderfully with a small dish of marinara sauce for dipping, or even a spicy aioli or ranch dressing. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for mingling.
• Kid-Friendly Snack: Children adore these rolls! The cheesy goodness makes them an instant hit, and they’re easy for little hands to manage, making them an excellent after-school snack, a fun addition to a lunchbox, or a quick bite for game night.
• Sandwich Enhancer: For a twist, split a warm roll and use it as a base for mini sliders or a quick ham and cheese sandwich. The flaky texture and cheesy flavor add a special touch to simple fillings.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these crescent rolls are sure to be a hit. Their versatility makes them a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire.

Storage and Reheating Tips

While these cheesy Old Bay crescent rolls are undeniably best when enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can certainly store and reheat them if you happen to have any leftovers (though that’s a rare occurrence, given how quickly they disappear!). Proper storage ensures they remain delicious for later enjoyment.

• Storing Leftovers (Cooked): Allow the baked rolls to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Beyond that, the dough can start to dry out.
• Freezing (Unbaked): If you want to prepare them ahead of time for future baking, you can freeze the unbaked, assembled rolls. Place the rolled, unbaked crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Once completely frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, place the frozen rolls on a prepared baking sheet and bake for a few extra minutes (approximately 15-18 minutes) at the same temperature (350°F / 175°C), or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Freezing (Baked): Baked rolls can also be frozen for longer storage. After cooling completely, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a larger freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
• Reheating Cooked Rolls:
  • Oven: This is the best method for restoring their original flaky texture and gooey cheese. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet (you can use parchment paper again) and heat for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
  • Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can make them a bit soft and chewy rather than flaky. Heat individual rolls for 10-20 seconds, checking frequently until warmed. This method is best if you’re in a hurry and prioritize speed over texture.
  • Air Fryer: For a quick reheat that beautifully maintains crispness, place rolls in a single layer in an air fryer basket. Heat at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until hot and slightly crispy. This method is excellent for refreshing leftover rolls.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy these delightful stuffed crescent rolls long after they’ve been baked, making them even more convenient for meal planning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Stuffed Crescent Rolls