Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches recipe

These Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches have become something of a legend in our house. I first threw them together for a casual Sunday night dinner when I had some leftover holiday ham and turkey lurking in the fridge, along with the ever-reliable tube of crescent roll dough. I wasn’t expecting much, just a quick way to use things up. But the reaction? Absolutely phenomenal! The smell wafting from the oven – that buttery, savory aroma mixed with melting cheese – brought everyone running. My kids, usually picky eaters, devoured them, asking for seconds before the first batch was even cool enough to handle properly. My husband declared them “the best quick meal ever.” Since then, they’ve become a go-to for everything from game day snacks and potluck contributions to easy weeknight meals when I’m short on time but still want something warm, satisfying, and undeniably delicious. The flaky, golden crescent dough wrapping around layers of savory ham, tender turkey, and gooey melted cheese, all brushed with a tangy, buttery glaze… it’s simple comfort food elevated just enough to feel special. Honestly, they disappear so fast every single time, I’ve learned to always make a double batch! They are incredibly easy, wonderfully versatile, and consistently a massive hit with everyone who tries them.

Complete Ingredients

Making these incredibly satisfying Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches requires just a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty lies in the simplicity and the potential for variation based on what you have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for a standard batch, typically yielding 8 sandwiches:

• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: 1 can (8 oz / 226g). Use the regular crescent rolls, not the dough sheets unless you plan to cut them yourself. Ensure the dough is kept cold until ready to use for easier handling.
• Deli Sliced Cooked Turkey: Approximately 4 oz (113g), thinly sliced. You can use leftover roasted turkey (shredded or sliced thinly) or good quality deli turkey like oven-roasted, smoked, or honey-roasted. Ensure it’s not too thick for easy rolling.
• Deli Sliced Cooked Ham: Approximately 4 oz (113g), thinly sliced. Again, leftover ham works perfectly, or choose your favorite deli variety – Black Forest, honey ham, or smoked ham are all excellent choices. Thin slices work best.
• Swiss Cheese: 4 slices (about 4 oz / 113g), cut in half diagonally to form triangles, or use shredded Swiss cheese (about 1 cup). Swiss cheese is traditional and melts beautifully with a mild, nutty flavor that complements the ham and turkey perfectly. Provolone, mild Cheddar, Gruyere, or even Monterey Jack are suitable substitutes.
• Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g), melted. This forms the base of the delicious glaze brushed on top.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon. Adds a crucial tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the cheese and butter. Grainy Dijon or regular yellow mustard can be substituted in a pinch, but Dijon offers the best flavor profile.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon. This adds a subtle savory depth (umami) to the glaze that really elevates the overall taste.
• Poppy Seeds (Optional): 1 teaspoon. These add a nice visual appeal and a slight textural contrast to the topping. Sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning can also be used.
• Optional additions: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can be added to the butter glaze for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bringing these cheesy, flaky delights to life is remarkably straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfect Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches every time:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup significantly easier. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dough: Carefully open the can of crescent roll dough. Unroll the dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface (or directly onto the parchment paper if you prefer less cleanup). Separate the dough into the 8 pre-cut triangles along the perforations. If any perforations tear too much, gently press them back together.
3. Layer the Fillings: Working with one triangle at a time, place it with the widest end closest to you. Layer the ingredients onto the wide end of each triangle. A common layering method is:
   • First, place a half-slice of Swiss cheese (or a tablespoon or two of shredded cheese).
   • Next, add a slice or two of ham (fold it neatly to fit within the wide end).
   • Then, add a slice or two of turkey (again, folded to fit).
   • Tip: Be mindful not to overstuff the crescents. Too much filling can make them difficult to roll and may cause leakage during baking. Ensure the fillings stay primarily on the wider third of the triangle.
4. Roll ‘Em Up: Starting at the wide end with the fillings, carefully and tightly roll up each crescent triangle towards the pointed end. The point should end up tucked slightly underneath or pressed gently onto the top of the roll to help seal it.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled-up crescent sandwiches onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the pointed tip is tucked down if possible. Leave a little space (about an inch) between each roll to allow for even baking and expansion.
6. Prepare the Glaze: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (about 20-30 seconds on high should do it). Whisk in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. If using, stir in the poppy seeds (or alternative seeds/seasoning).
7. Brush with Glaze: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the melted butter mixture evenly over the tops and sides of each crescent roll sandwich. Ensure you get some of the poppy seeds (if using) onto each one. This glaze adds flavor, helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color, and adds a slight crispness.
8. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescents are beautifully golden brown, puffed up, and the cheese is visibly melted and possibly slightly oozing (which is delicious!). Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as oven temperatures can vary, and the bottoms or tops can brown quickly.
9. Cool Slightly and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes (about 5 minutes is ideal). This allows the melted cheese to set slightly, making them easier to handle and preventing burns from molten cheese. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that these nutritional values are estimates and can vary significantly based on the specific brands of ingredients used (especially the type of dough, cheese, ham, and turkey), the exact portion sizes, and any substitutions made.

• Servings: This recipe typically makes 8 individual crescent roll sandwiches.
• Calories Per Serving (1 Sandwich): Approximately 250-350 calories.

Disclaimer: This estimate generally accounts for standard crescent roll dough, deli turkey and ham, Swiss cheese, and the butter glaze. Using lower-fat cheese or turkey, or omitting the glaze, would reduce the calorie count, while using richer ingredients or larger portions would increase it. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to calculate based on the specific products you use using an online nutritional calculator.

Preparation and Cook Time

One of the major appeals of this recipe is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy schedules or last-minute entertaining.

• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes. This includes preheating the oven, preparing the baking sheet, unrolling the dough, layering the ingredients, rolling the crescents, and mixing/brushing the glaze.
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes. Baking time until golden brown and cooked through.
• Total Time: Approximately 22-30 minutes from start to finish.

This quick turnaround makes them an excellent choice for a speedy lunch, a simple dinner, or a fast appetizer when guests arrive unexpectedly.

How to Serve Your Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches

These versatile sandwiches are delicious on their own but can be served in various ways depending on the occasion and meal context. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer: Arrange them warm on a platter for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. They are easy for guests to grab and eat. Consider providing small bowls of dipping sauces alongside.
• As a Light Lunch: Serve 2-3 sandwiches per person alongside a simple side.
• As an Easy Dinner: Increase the serving size (3-4 per person) and pair with more substantial sides for a complete meal.
• For Potlucks: They travel reasonably well (though best served warm) and are always a crowd-pleaser. Bake them just before leaving or reheat briefly upon arrival if possible.

Pairing Ideas (Use Bullet Points):

• Soups: Creamy tomato soup, broccoli cheddar soup, or a simple vegetable soup complement the warm, cheesy sandwiches beautifully.
• Salads:
  • A crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing.
  • A creamy coleslaw.
  • A light pasta salad.
  • A refreshing fruit salad.
• Dipping Sauces:
  • Honey Mustard (classic pairing!)
  • Ranch Dressing
  • Extra Dijon Mustard
  • Garlic Aioli
  • Spicy Mayo
• Vegetables: Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or simple carrot and celery sticks with dip.
• Other Finger Foods: If serving as part of an appetizer spread, pair with veggie platters, chips and dip, chicken wings, or mini quiches.
• Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or for adult gatherings, a crisp white wine or a light beer pairs nicely.

Presentation:

• Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and gooey cheese experience.
• Arrange neatly on a serving plate or platter.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color.

Additional Tips for Perfect Crescent Sandwiches

Want to elevate your Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches from great to absolutely perfect? Here are five tips to keep in mind:

1. Cheese Choices Matter: While Swiss is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment! Provolone offers a smooth melt, sharp cheddar adds a bolder flavor, Gruyere lends a nutty complexity, and even pepper jack can add a spicy kick. Using sliced cheese generally provides better coverage, but shredded cheese melts very nicely too – just be careful it doesn’t spill out too much during rolling. A combination (like Swiss and cheddar) can also be delicious.
2. Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble the crescent rolls completely (layering fillings, rolling them up), place them on the prepared baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 4-6 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap, prepare and brush on the glaze, and bake as directed (you might need to add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time if they are very cold). This is fantastic for party prep!
3. Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to load up the fillings, but resist the urge! Overstuffed crescents are harder to roll tightly, more prone to leaking cheese and juices during baking (which can burn on the pan), and may not cook as evenly. Stick to the recommended amounts or slightly less for the neatest results and best dough-to-filling ratio. Also, ensure your meat and cheese slices aren’t excessively thick.
4. Customize the Topping: The Dijon-butter glaze is fantastic, but feel free to customize it. Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or parsley to the butter mixture. Swap poppy seeds for sesame seeds, caraway seeds, or a sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning for a different texture and flavor profile. For a slightly sweeter note, a tiny drizzle of honey or maple syrup in the butter glaze can complement the ham nicely.
5. Perfect Use for Leftovers: This recipe is arguably one of the best ways to use up leftover holiday turkey and ham. The flavors meld beautifully within the crescent roll, giving leftovers a delicious new life. You can even use leftover shredded chicken or roast beef. Just ensure the leftover meat is sliced thinly or shredded for easy rolling and even heating. Patting down any excess moisture from the meat can also help prevent soggy bottoms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches:

1. Q: Can I use crescent dough sheets instead of the perforated triangles?
   • A: Absolutely! Using crescent dough sheets works great. Simply unroll the sheet onto your lightly floured surface or parchment paper. Cut the sheet into 8 equal rectangles or triangles (triangles are more traditional for the crescent shape). Place the filling on one end/side and roll up. If using rectangles, you might end up with more of a “roll-up” shape than a classic crescent, but they will taste just as delicious. Proceed with the glaze and baking instructions as written.
2. Q: Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?
   • A: Yes, you can assemble them ahead. Prepare the sandwiches completely up to the point before brushing on the glaze. Place them on the baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 6 hours (some say up to 24 hours, but freshness is best within 6). When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap, mix and brush on the fresh glaze, and bake as directed, possibly adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time since they’ll be starting colder.
3. Q: Can I freeze Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches?
   • A: Yes, you have two options for freezing:
     • Freeze Unbaked: Assemble the rolls (without the glaze), place them on a baking sheet not touching, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To bake, place frozen rolls on a prepared baking sheet, brush with the glaze (you may need to let them thaw slightly for the glaze to stick), and bake, adding several extra minutes (around 5-10 minutes, watch carefully) to the baking time.
     • Freeze Baked: Bake the sandwiches as directed and let them cool completely. Wrap them individually or place them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven until heated through (10-15 minutes), or thaw in the refrigerator first for quicker reheating. The texture might be slightly less crisp than freshly baked.
4. Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
   • A: Store any leftover baked crescent sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, the best method is using an oven or toaster oven set to around 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is slightly re-crisped. Microwaving is possible but tends to make the crescent dough soft and chewy rather than flaky.
5. Q: What are some other filling variations I could try?
   • A: These are incredibly versatile! Try these variations:
     • Roast Beef & Provolone: Use deli roast beef, provolone cheese, and maybe a horseradish cream sauce mixed into the glaze or served alongside.
     • Chicken Cordon Bleu: Use cooked chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese.
     • Pizza Rolls: Fill with pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and a dab of pizza sauce. Brush the tops with garlic butter and Italian seasoning.
     • Breakfast Crescents: Fill with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage or bacon, and cheddar cheese.
     • Vegetarian: Fill with sautéed spinach and feta cheese, or perhaps roasted red peppers and mozzarella. Adjust the glaze accordingly (e.g., garlic butter).

These Turkey and Ham Crescent Sandwiches truly represent comfort food at its easiest and most delicious. The combination of flaky pastry, savory meats, melted cheese, and that tangy butter glaze makes them irresistible for any occasion. Enjoy!

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