Crescent Roll Tomato-Basil Squares

Crescent Roll Tomato-Basil Squares are a quick and easy appetizer that brings together flaky crescent roll dough, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and melty cheese for a delightful bite. These squares are baked until golden and crisp, with the fresh ingredients melding together to create a flavorful and irresistible dish. They’re perfect for parties, brunches, or as a light snack.

I first made these squares when I needed a simple appetizer for a last-minute gathering. The buttery crescent roll base paired beautifully with the fresh, tangy tomatoes and fragrant basil, while the melted cheese added just the right amount of richness. What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability—you can use mozzarella or Parmesan for the cheese, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor, or sprinkle some garlic powder for a savory twist. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Crescent Roll Tomato-Basil Squares are always a hit!

Perfect for:

Appetizers
Parties and gatherings
Family meals
Light snacks
Tomato and basil lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Crescent Roll Tomato-Basil Squares will be your new go-to appetizer:

Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of tomatoes, basil, and cheese creates a burst of freshness in every bite.
Quick and Easy: Made with crescent roll dough, they come together in no time, perfect for busy cooks.
Savory and Satisfying: These squares are both light yet filling, making them a great snack or starter.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, cheese, or extra toppings to make them your own.
Golden and Crisp: The crescent roll crust is perfectly golden and flaky, providing a satisfying crunch.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal dinner, these squares fit the bill.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and bake just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
Vegetarian Delight: This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a meat-free option with vibrant flavors.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is both budget-friendly and tasty.
Sure to Impress: These squares are so delicious that your guests will be asking for the recipe!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 9g

Ingredients

For the Crescent Roll Base:

2 cans crescent roll dough (8 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried basil

The Tomato-Basil Topping:

2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze

Ingredient Highlights

Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant, herbal note that brightens up the dish.
Crescent Roll Dough: Forms a buttery, flaky base that holds the toppings perfectly.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey texture that complements the tomato and basil.
Olive Oil: Adds a rich flavor to both the crust and the topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crescent Roll Base:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
Roll Out Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Press seams together to form a single sheet of dough.
Season Dough: Brush the dough with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder and dried basil.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Tomato-Basil Topping:

Slice Tomatoes: While the dough bakes, slice the tomatoes thinly and chop the fresh basil.
Top Dough: Once the crescent roll dough has cooled slightly, arrange the tomato slices evenly on top. Sprinkle with fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes and basil. Drizzle a little olive oil on top.

Bake and Serve:

Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares and garnish with fresh basil leaves and balsamic glaze, if desired.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Crescent Roll Tomato-Basil Squares:

As an Appetizer: Serve these squares as a starter at your next gathering.
With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light lunch or dinner.
For Game Day: These are perfect for serving at a casual get-together or sports party.
For Afternoon Tea: A savory option to add to your tea-time spread.
As a Snack: Enjoy these squares as an afternoon pick-me-up or a quick snack.
With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for extra flavor.
As a Side Dish: Pair with pasta or grilled meats for a complete meal.
As a Party Snack: Serve at a potluck or buffet for guests to enjoy.
For Brunch: A great addition to any brunch menu, alongside eggs or a fruit platter.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil gives a vibrant, aromatic flavor that dried basil can’t match. Chop it finely before adding it to the squares.
Customize with Cheese: While mozzarella is classic, you can mix in other cheeses like parmesan, provolone, or even goat cheese for extra depth of flavor.
Add Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, finely chop a garlic clove or two and mix it with the basil before topping the crescent dough.
Layer the Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best results. Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly and become tender without being too watery.
Pre-bake the Dough: To avoid soggy dough, consider baking the crescent rolls for 5 minutes before adding toppings. This helps create a crispier base.
Season the Tomatoes: Sprinkle the sliced tomatoes with a pinch of salt and pepper before adding them to the dough. It enhances their flavor and brings out their natural sweetness.
Try Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a more intense tomato flavor, use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones. They add a chewy texture and a deep, savory taste.
Add Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle some balsamic glaze on top before serving for a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the cheese.
Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the squares with a light green salad, maybe with some balsamic vinaigrette, to complement the fresh, savory flavors.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and toppings in advance, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This saves time when entertaining or meal prepping.

Recipe Variations

Add Protein: Top with cooked chicken or beef bacon for a heartier option.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based crescent roll dough for a vegan twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for some heat.
Cheese Lovers: Add extra cheese like parmesan or cheddar for a more decadent dish.
Caprese Twist: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking for a true caprese flavor.

Special Equipment

Baking Sheet – For evenly cooking the Crescent Roll base.
Parchment Paper – To prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
Sharp Knife – For slicing the squares after baking.
Pastry Brush – To apply olive oil or seasoning to the crust.
Mixing Bowl – For combining ingredients like cheese and herbs.
Cutting Board – For chopping fresh basil and tomatoes.
Pizza Cutter – For quickly cutting the baked squares into portions.
Large Spoon or Spatula – To spread ingredients evenly over the dough.
Grater – For shredding cheese if using a block of mozzarella or Parmesan.
Oven Mitts – To safely handle hot pans during and after baking.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as provolone, cheddar, or feta.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the base and toppings ahead of time and bake just before serving.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, dried basil can be used, though fresh basil will give a more vibrant flavor.
Can I freeze these squares?
It’s best to freeze the baked squares without the toppings, and then add fresh toppings before serving.
Can I make this recipe without the cheese?
Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter version, or try using a cheese alternative.
How can I make them crispier?
Bake the squares a little longer for a more crisp and crunchy texture.
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of basil?
Yes, pesto makes a great alternative for a richer flavor.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to experiment with adding vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or spinach.
Can I serve this dish cold?
While these squares are best served warm, they can also be enjoyed cold as a snack.
How do I keep the crescent roll dough from being too soft?
Ensure the dough is fully baked before adding the toppings to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

Crescent Roll Tomato-Basil Squares are a simple yet flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized squares feature a buttery crescent roll crust topped with a combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and melted cheese, creating a delightful balance of crisp, cheesy, and herby goodness. They’re a crowd-pleasing option that brings classic Italian-inspired flavors to your table.

This recipe is quick to prepare and versatile, making it great for parties, potlucks, or as an easy snack. You can customize the toppings with additional ingredients like garlic, olives, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added zest. Serve warm or at room temperature for a dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

I can’t wait to see how your Crescent Roll Tomato-Basil Squares turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!