Baked Turkey and Cheese Rolls

If you love melty cheese and savory turkey wrapped in buttery dough, these Baked Turkey and Cheese Rolls are for you. They come out of the oven bubbly and golden, and every bite is packed with layers of flavor. Whether you are hosting a party, prepping game day snacks, or just craving an easy comfort food, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

I whipped these up for a holiday movie marathon with friends and everyone asked for the recipe that same night. Now I make them whenever we need a warm treat fast.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated crescent roll dough: provides that soft flaky wrap that transforms the filling into something special try to pick a brand with rich buttery flavor
• Butter: gives the rolls their signature golden gloss and incredible flavor use good quality butter for best results
• Minced garlic: brings an aromatic punch fresh garlic is best but jarred works in a pinch
• Salt and Pepper: help balance the richness try to use fresh cracked pepper for a little heat
• Bacon bits: add a smoky savory crunch both fresh and pre-made are great check for bits with more real meat and less filler
• Colby jack cheese: melts beautifully with just enough stretch opt for presliced for easy assembly or swap for your favorite cheese
• Turkey slices: bring lean protein and balance out the richness use a deli turkey you enjoy eating on its own

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Dough:

Roll out the crescent dough on parchment or a floured board until it is about the size of a baking dish This helps the rolls bake evenly and fit the filling without gaps

Make Flavored Butter:

Melt butter with garlic salt and pepper Stir it well so the seasoning is combined and no garlic bits clump together This is the flavor powerhouse for the whole recipe

Brush and Layer Cheese:

Use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread the garlic butter evenly over the dough Place cheese slices in two neat rows at the bottom leaving the top third bare for easier sealing

Add Bacon and Turkey:

Scatter bacon bits evenly across the cheese Layer on the turkey slices overlapping as needed so every bite gets meat and cheese

Roll It Up:

Starting from the loaded edge carefully roll up the dough as tightly as you can The butter will help seal the edges Pull the seam underneath so it stays closed during baking

Slice and Arrange:

With a sharp knife slice the roll into ten even rounds Place them cut side up in a buttered casserole dish so they bake up tall and golden

Bake:

Bake in a preheated oven until the rolls are puffed and turning golden brown on top About twenty five minutes will get you soft interiors and crispy edges

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Once I tried stuffing with smoked gouda and turkey leftover from Thanksgiving dinner and my brother went back for thirds The smell of the garlic butter as these bake always reminds me of holiday weekends

Storage Tips

For leftovers let the rolls cool completely Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to three days Warm up in the oven or air fryer for crispiness The dough softens overnight so reheating restores their best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out turkey for chicken ham or a vegetarian deli slice Use mozzarella or cheddar if you do not have colby jack Veggie crumbles or caramelized onions make a great alternative to bacon bits

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a game day snack party appetizer easy dinner with a side salad or even brunch add a dollop of cranberry sauce to the rolls for a sweet twist These travel well in foil for picnics or potlucks

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A Touch of History

The tradition of rolling meat and cheese into dough goes back centuries in many cultures Crescent dough is a shortcut on classic stuffed breads bringing bakery fresh flavor home in record time

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the rolls from splitting open during baking?

Roll the dough tightly and be sure to seal the edges well. The garlic butter acts as a binder to help keep everything enclosed.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, swap in your favorite slicing cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss to suit your taste.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Warm individual rolls in the oven at 325°F for a few minutes or until heated through to restore freshness.

→ Are there other protein options besides turkey?

Try sliced ham, roast beef, or even cooked chicken to vary the flavor while keeping the same method.

→ Can these rolls be made ahead of time?

Assemble and refrigerate before baking, then bake just before serving for the freshest results. Freeze unbaked rolls if making farther ahead.