Irresistible Turkey Pepper Jack Crescent Roll-Ups: Your Go-To Recipe for Easy Appetizers
When holidays roll around, the big game is on, or friends and family gather, quick appetizers that truly deliver on flavor are always at the top of my list. That’s why these Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups are an absolute winner for any occasion! They combine savory deli turkey, spicy pepper jack cheese, and flaky crescent roll dough, all finished with a zesty mustard-butter and poppy seed glaze. It’s a combination that’s simply irresistible and incredibly easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Turkey Roll-Ups
These zesty Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. One of their best features is that you can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. This makes entertaining a breeze – simply pop them into the oven as your guests arrive, and serve them warm for a welcoming, comforting appetizer that feels much more involved than it actually is. Imagine the aroma filling your home!
The inspiration for this recipe comes from a fun challenge set by the wonderful team at Pillsbury. They encouraged me to get creative with their versatile crescent rolls to develop a mouth-watering appetizer perfect for the holiday season. Given my long-standing love for appetizers, I immediately started brainstorming ideas that would be both flavorful and simple to execute using this fantastic pantry staple. Pillsbury crescent rolls are a true game-changer, transforming everyday ingredients into something special with minimal effort.
My all-time favorite appetizer, Ham & Cheese Sliders, served as a fantastic starting point for these Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups. I wanted to capture that same combination of savory meat, melted cheese, and a sweet-and-tangy topping, but with a different twist. By drawing inspiration from the sliders’ beloved flavor profile, I crafted a new appetizer that offers a similar comforting experience with a unique, zesty kick. The beauty of using crescent rolls is how easily they adapt to various fillings, making them perfect for creating delicious savory bites.
The delicious sauce that typically drizzles over those sliders is truly fabulous, but for this recipe, I aimed for something even quicker and more straightforward. I streamlined the ingredient list for the topping, ensuring it would be easy to whisk together and brush on without compromising on flavor. The goal was to create an appetizer that tastes gourmet but comes together in a flash, perfect for busy hosts.
The Perfect Balance: Spicy Cheese & Zesty Sauce
The key to the unique flavor of these Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups lies in the combination of the creamy, subtly spicy pepper jack cheese and the tangy mustard butter sauce, beautifully accented by poppy seeds. The poppy seeds aren’t just for show; they add a delightful texture and a hint of nutty flavor that truly elevates these roll-ups. The mustard butter sauce provides the perfect touch of zing, cutting through the richness of the cheese and turkey.
If you’re wondering about the “kick” from the pepper jack cheese, rest assured it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. It adds a pleasant warmth that enhances the overall flavor. However, if you prefer a milder taste or are serving guests with varying spice preferences, there are excellent substitutions. Mozzarella cheese is always a fantastic mild option, melting beautifully and offering a classic, creamy flavor. Havarti cheese, with its buttery and slightly sweet notes, is another delicious alternative that adds a lovely richness. Other great choices include mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even provolone for a different Italian-inspired twist. Feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheese!
For the turkey, I personally love using black pepper deli turkey for an extra layer of subtle spice, complementing the pepper jack cheese perfectly. However, the beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. You can absolutely use any variety of deli turkey you prefer! Honey roasted turkey will add a touch of sweetness, smoked turkey will give a deeper, savory flavor, and classic oven-roasted turkey is always a reliable choice. Simply choose your favorite deli turkey, and you’re good to go. I’ve generically listed “deli turkey” in the ingredients to give you the freedom to customize.
Essential Ingredients for Your Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful appetizers. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet satisfying recipe:
- 8 oz can crescent rolls: The foundation of our roll-ups, providing a flaky, buttery crust.
- 8 slices deli turkey: Your choice of flavor, offering a savory filling.
- 4 oz shredded pepper jack cheese: For that irresistible spicy, melty core.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for our flavorful glaze.
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the butter glaze.
- 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds: For a delightful texture and visual appeal.
Helpful Kitchen Tools to Make it Even Easier
While the recipe is straightforward, having a few key kitchen tools on hand can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable:
- Baking sheet: Essential for baking your roll-ups evenly. A good quality baking sheet prevents sticking and ensures a golden crust.
- Mixing bowl: For effortlessly combining the butter and mustard for your glaze.
- Cooling rack: Allows air to circulate around your baked roll-ups, preventing the bottoms from getting soggy and maintaining their crispiness.
- Pastry brush: The best tool for evenly coating your warm roll-ups with the butter-mustard mixture and ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Simple Steps to Create Your Delicious Roll-Ups
The assembly of these turkey and cheese crescent roll-ups couldn’t be simpler! First, you’ll want to gently open the can of crescent rolls and carefully unroll the dough. Separate the dough into the pre-cut triangles and lay them flat on your prepared baking sheet. Next, take a slice of your chosen deli turkey, fold it in half, and place it on the wide end of each crescent triangle. Generously sprinkle about a tablespoon of shredded pepper jack cheese over the turkey. Then, starting from the wide end, roll up each crescent tightly to create your perfect roll-ups. Arrange them on the baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them for even baking. Repeat this process for all eight crescent rolls.
Once your roll-ups are baked to a beautiful golden brown (you’ll find the full baking instructions in the recipe card below), it’s time for the magic touch! While they are still warm, melt the unsalted butter and stir in the yellow mustard until well combined. Using a pastry brush, gently coat each baked crescent roll with this savory butter-mustard mixture. Immediately after brushing, sprinkle a generous amount of poppy seeds over the glazed roll-ups. It’s best to work in small batches of 2 or 3 roll-ups at a time to ensure the butter doesn’t harden before you can add the poppy seeds, guaranteeing they stick beautifully. This simple step adds so much flavor and a wonderful texture to the finished appetizer!
Make-Ahead Tips and Reheating Instructions
These Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups are perfect for preparing in advance, making your hosting duties much simpler. You can assemble the roll-ups with the turkey and cheese, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they are very cold from the fridge.
If you find yourself with delightful leftovers, they can be easily reheated. For the best results, pop them back into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat them in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cook on 50% power for 10-20 seconds per roll-up, or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the crescent rolls tough.
Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas
These versatile Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups are fantastic on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of other dishes and dips. Consider serving them with a side of ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a simple marinara sauce for dipping. They are a staple for any game day spread, perfect for holiday parties, New Year’s Eve gatherings, casual potlucks, or even a fun brunch. For a complete appetizer platter, consider adding some fresh veggie sticks, olives, or a bowl of spiced nuts alongside these savory bites. They also make a quick and satisfying snack for school lunches or a light dinner when paired with a fresh green salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While turkey is delicious, you can easily substitute it with other deli meats. Ham and cheese roll-ups are a classic and equally tasty option. Sliced roast beef or even cooked, shredded chicken could also work for a different flavor profile.
What if I don’t like poppy seeds?
No problem! If poppy seeds aren’t your preference, you can omit them entirely. Alternatively, you could sprinkle the buttered tops with sesame seeds for a subtle nutty flavor, or even a dash of garlic powder and onion powder for an extra savory kick. Everything Bagel seasoning is another fantastic topping that adds a complex flavor and texture.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes, if you can find gluten-free crescent roll dough or puff pastry, you can easily adapt this recipe. Ensure all other ingredients (deli meat, cheese, mustard) are also gluten-free if catering to a strict dietary need.
Can I freeze the roll-ups?
You can! For best results, freeze the assembled but unbaked roll-ups. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag for up to 1-2 months. When ready to bake, place frozen roll-ups on a baking sheet and bake for a slightly longer time (about 15-20 minutes) until golden brown and cooked through.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftover Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them as described above for the best taste and texture.
Can I use a different kind of mustard for the glaze?
Certainly! Yellow mustard provides a classic tangy flavor, but Dijon mustard will offer a sharper, more sophisticated taste. For a sweeter glaze, you could try honey mustard, or even add a touch of honey to your yellow mustard. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite!
There you have it – a simple yet incredibly satisfying appetizer that’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. These Turkey Pepper Jack Crescent Roll-Ups are a testament to how easy it is to create something truly delicious with minimal fuss. Enjoy!
Turkey Pepper Jack Roll Ups
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 8 ounce can crescent rolls
- 8 slices deli turkey
- 4 ounces shredded pepper jack cheese or slices
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- ½ tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial for preventing the crescent rolls from sticking and for easy cleanup.
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In a small mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter (you can do this in the microwave in short bursts or on the stovetop). Stir in the yellow mustard until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set this glaze aside for later.
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Open the can of crescent rolls and unroll the dough. Separate it into 8 individual triangles. For each triangle, fold one slice of deli turkey in half and place it on the wide end of the crescent. Top the turkey with approximately one tablespoon of shredded pepper jack cheese. Carefully roll up the crescent from the wide end towards the pointed tip. Place the rolled crescent on your prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Repeat for all crescent rolls. Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Once baked, remove the crescents from the oven and immediately transfer them to a cooling rack. While they are still hot, use a pastry brush to generously coat each roll-up with the butter and mustard mixture you prepared earlier. Immediately after brushing, sprinkle the poppy seeds over the glazed roll-ups. It’s best to work quickly, in batches of 2 or 3 rolls, to ensure the butter doesn’t harden before you can add the poppy seeds, allowing them to adhere perfectly.
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Serve your delicious Turkey Pepper Jack Roll-Ups warm and enjoy the blend of flaky pastry, savory turkey, spicy cheese, and zesty topping!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
Looking for more amazing appetizer ideas? We’ve got you covered! These bacon-wrapped little smokies are always a huge hit for game day or any get-together. And for a classic crowd-pleaser that everyone loves, our homemade Chex Mix is another fantastic option that’s impossible to resist!
And if you’re a fan of crescent roll magic, don’t forget to try my pizza crescent roll ups too for another quick and delicious snack!
Disclosure: I was compensated for the time it took me to come up with this recipe, make it, photograph it, eat it 🙂 and share it with you. Fair trade I think.