Introduction:
A delightful and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion, the Spinach & Cheese Crescent Ring combines the richness of cheese with the earthiness of spinach, all wrapped in flaky, buttery crescent dough.
Whether you’re preparing it for a party, a quick snack, or a cozy dinner, this recipe offers a comforting and flavorful option that’s sure to impress your guests or family.
Easy to make and absolutely delicious, this dish can be customized with various cheeses and spices to fit your taste.
Ingredients:
2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
1 package (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the drained spinach. Mix until well combined.
Open the crescent rolls and unroll them onto the prepared baking sheet.
Arrange the dough in a circle, overlapping the edges slightly, leaving a hole in the center to form a ring shape.
Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the center of the dough, spreading it evenly.
Carefully fold the edges of the crescent rolls over the filling, tucking them into the center of the ring.
The dough should cover the filling but still leave the center exposed.
Brush the top of the dough with olive oil or melted butter to help it brown.
Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added texture.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and cooked through.
Let the crescent ring cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Description:
The Spinach & Cheese Crescent Ring is a flavorful, warm appetizer or main dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. The creamy spinach and cheese filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp, golden crescent dough.
The richness of ricotta and cream cheese balances out the savory mozzarella and Parmesan, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served for brunch, parties, or as a side with dinner.
Its visual appeal, with the dough beautifully shaped into a ring, adds a touch of elegance to any table.
Tips:
Drain the spinach thoroughly:
Excess moisture from the spinach can make the filling soggy, so be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing it into the cheese.
Use fresh spinach:
If you prefer fresh spinach over frozen, sauté it in a little olive oil until wilted and then drain well before using it in the filling.
Customize the filling:
Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked chicken for extra flavor and texture.
Make it spicy:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Cheese variations:
You can swap the mozzarella or ricotta with other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Variations:
Meat Lovers’ Crescent Ring:
Add cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken to the spinach and cheese filling for a heartier option.
Vegan Version:
Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like vegan cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella.
Ensure the crescent rolls are dairy-free.
Herbed Crescent Ring: Mix fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano into the spinach and cheese mixture for a more aromatic and earthy flavor.
Correction:
If you notice that the filling is too runny or doesn’t hold together well, try adding a little more cream cheese or some breadcrumbs to help thicken the mixture.
This will also help prevent it from oozing out of the dough during baking.
Enjoy:
Once it’s baked to a golden perfection, slice up your Spinach & Cheese Crescent Ring and enjoy its flaky, cheesy goodness! Whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this savory ring will surely become a favorite.
Serve it with a light salad or your favorite dipping sauce for an even more satisfying meal.