Garlic Butter Bacon Rollups

This garlic butter bacon cheeseburger rollups recipe transforms all the flavors of your favorite burger into a bite-sized, party-ready treat. The combination of seasoned beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese all wrapped in golden dough creates an irresistible finger food that disappears fast at any gathering.

I first made these rollups for a last-minute football watch party, and they were such a hit that they've become my go-to appetizer whenever friends come over. The smell of garlic butter baking in the oven never fails to draw everyone to the kitchen before they're even done.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides the meaty base; choose 80/20 for the best flavor without excess grease
• Bacon: Adds that smoky crunch that makes burgers special; use thick-cut for more substantial pieces
• Shredded cheddar: Creates the perfect melt factor; sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch
• Crescent roll or pizza dough: Offers convenience and a buttery vessel; look for all-butter varieties for best taste
• Butter and fresh garlic: For the finishing touch; use real butter, not margarine, for authentic flavor
• Salt and pepper: For classic seasoning; kosher salt works best for even distribution
• Optional add-ins: Jalapeños, pickles, or onions for customization based on your favorite burger toppings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper while cooking. Break the meat into small crumbles using a wooden spoon for even distribution in the rolls later.

Add the Bacon:

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease and return to the pan. Fold in the crumbled bacon pieces, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture. Remove from heat and allow to cool for about 5 minutes so it won't melt the dough.

Prepare the Dough:

Unroll the crescent or pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. If using crescent rolls, press the perforations together to create one uniform rectangle approximately 9x13 inches. For pizza dough, roll it out to the same dimensions.

Add Fillings:

Spread the slightly cooled meat and bacon mixture evenly across the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border along one long edge for sealing. Press the filling gently into the dough to help it adhere.

Add Cheese and Roll:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the meat mixture. Starting from the long edge without the border, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, pinching the seam to seal completely.

Slice and Arrange:

Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1 to 1½ inch slices. Place the slices cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing some space between each for expansion.

Apply Garlic Butter:

Melt the butter in a small bowl and stir in the minced garlic and chopped parsley if using. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of each rollup, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15-18 minutes, until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Watch carefully in the last few minutes to prevent burning.

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The garlic butter finish on these rollups is what truly elevates them from good to exceptional. I discovered this trick when making traditional garlic knots and realized the same technique would transform these simple meat rolls into something special. My teenage son now requests these instead of actual burgers for his birthday dinner.

Make-Ahead Options

These cheeseburger rollups work beautifully as a make-ahead dish. You can prepare the entire recipe up to the point of baking, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled dough. The garlic butter can also be prepared ahead and rewarmed slightly before brushing onto the rolls just before baking.

Dipping Sauce Suggestions

While these rollups are delicious on their own, offering a selection of dipping sauces takes them to the next level. Classic burger condiments like ketchup and mustard are obvious choices, but consider also offering a spicy sriracha mayo, tangy barbecue sauce, or a creamy ranch dressing. For a gourmet touch, mix equal parts ketchup and mayonnaise with a dash of pickle relish for a quick "special sauce" that mimics popular fast-food burger toppings.

Variations Worth Trying

The basic recipe serves as an excellent template for endless variations. For a breakfast-inspired version, substitute the ground beef with breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs to the filling. Taco lovers can use taco-seasoned beef with pepper jack cheese and serve with salsa and sour cream. For a leaner option, ground turkey works wonderfully when seasoned well, and veggie burger crumbles can create a satisfying vegetarian alternative with all the same cheesy, garlicky goodness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Yes, try ground turkey, chicken, or spicy sausage for a unique twist. Adjust seasonings to match the flavor profile.

→ How can I make these ahead of time?

Prepare the rollups, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Or bake, freeze, and reheat as needed.

→ What dips pair well with these rollups?

Consider ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, spicy ketchup, or a creamy garlic aioli for dipping.

→ Can I add extra toppings or ingredients?

Absolutely! Try jalapeños, caramelized onions, pickles, or even a sprinkle of parsley for added freshness and flavor.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Cool the rollups completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

→ How thin should I slice the rollups before baking?

Aim for 1–1½ inch slices to ensure even cooking. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.