Save Mac and Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rings transform comfort food into a shareable centerpiece. Creamy cheddar macaroni gets wrapped in flaky crescent dough and baked until golden, perfect for game days, parties, or when you want to serve a classic in a totally new way.
Every time I make these rings, they disappear fast. My niece requests them at every family birthday, and adults sneak seconds before the kids even notice.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: brings that classic, comforting macaroni shape and soaks up all the cheese
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: adds that essential tangy richness. Buy blocks and shred them yourself for smooth melting
- Unsalted butter: gives the sauce and ring a rich flavor. Choose butter with a high butterfat content for best browning
- All-purpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce to that perfect creamy consistency
- Whole milk: makes a richer sauce than low-fat varieties. Look for milk with a good freshness date
- Salt: enhances all the flavors. Use kosher or fine sea salt for even seasoning
- Black pepper: brings a gentle warmth. Freshly ground gives more punch
- Paprika (optional): adds a mild smokiness and lovely color. For extra flavor, use smoked paprika
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: makes construction easy. Look for brands with a clean ingredient label
- Fresh parsley: provides a pop of color for garnish and mild herbal note. Choose vibrant, unblemished leaves
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit 190 Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps the ring brown evenly.
- Boil the Macaroni:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions in salted boiling water just until al dente. Drain and let it cool a bit to prevent it from overcooking in the oven.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for one minute. This forms a roux and cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Whisk in the Milk:
- Pour in the milk gradually, whisking non stop to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for about two to three minutes until the sauce thickens to a silky consistency.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and one and a half cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce:
- Add the drained macaroni directly to the sauce. Stir until every piece is coated and allow it to cool slightly so the filling holds together better.
- Shape the Crescent Ring:
- Unroll the crescent roll dough triangles and lay them in a circle on your lined baking sheet, with the wide ends overlapping to form the base of a ring and the points facing outward.
- Fill with Mac and Cheese:
- Spoon the mac and cheese mixture in a thick band around the ring, keeping it close to the base. This will help the dough hold the filling when you fold it.
- Top with More Cheese:
- Evenly sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese over the mac and cheese filling for an extra melty layer.
- Fold and Seal the Ring:
- Pull each dough point over the filling and tuck it gently underneath to enclose the mac and cheese. Press to seal and shape into an even ring.
- Brush with Butter:
- Brush the entire surface of the ring with melted butter to encourage rich browning and extra flavor.
- Bake until Golden:
- Place the ring in your preheated oven and bake for eighteen to twenty minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden and crisp.
- Cool and Garnish:
- Let the ring cool for about five minutes so it slices cleanly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, then cut into sections and serve warm.
Save My personal favorite part is adding smoked paprika since it brings out the cheddar's sharpness. These rings showed up at a cousin's baby shower and even the grandparents stood around the oven waiting for slices.
Tips for Storage
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven for the best texture. Microwaving works but makes the crust softer than crunchy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap half the cheddar for pepper jack if you want a gentle heat. Use whole wheat elbow pasta for extra fiber or try shredded mozzarella for a milder cheese profile. The crescent dough can often be substituted with homemade or store bought pizza dough if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and serve with a selection of dips like ranch, spicy ketchup, or marinara. This ring works wonderfully as a main with a crisp green salad on the side or as a hearty potluck snack everyone can grab and share.
A Little History
Wraps and stuffed breads are traditions in American gatherings. This playful mashup nods to potluck parties and game days when finger food is king. The recipe grew in popularity thanks to its wow factor and comforting flavors.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add steamed broccoli or spinach to the filling for a spring twist Sprinkle with sautéed mushrooms and onions for a cozy autumn flavor Stuff in roasted pumpkin or butternut squash cubes for a fall take
Helpful Notes
Make sure the filling is not piping hot before assembling your ring so the dough does not get soggy Unroll the crescent dough gently to avoid tearing so your ring looks even A small offset spatula makes spreading the filling much easier
Success Stories
Every holiday season, we make multiple rings since they disappear in minutes. Neighbors request them for movie nights and leftovers never last long enough for a next day lunch.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble the mac and cheese ring completely but stop before baking. Freeze on a tray till firm, then wrap well and store up to two months. Bake from frozen at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty five to thirty minutes, adding a sheet of foil if the top browns too quickly.
Save Slice and serve while still warm for best flavor, and watch smiles appear around your table. Leftovers make a delicious next day snack, if there are any left!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade crescent dough?
Yes, homemade dough can be substituted for store-bought crescent dough if desired. Adjust baking time as needed.
- → What cheeses work best for the filling?
Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and adds rich flavor. You may mix in Monterey Jack or Gruyère for extra creaminess.
- → How do I prevent the rings from bursting open?
Be sure to seal the dough tips securely under the ring and avoid overfilling with macaroni to ensure tidy results.
- → Can these be made ahead for parties?
You can prepare the mac and cheese filling in advance and assemble the rings just before baking for best texture.
- → Is it possible to make this spicy?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or cayenne to the cheese sauce. Adjust heat to your preference.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Serve with ketchup, ranch, hot sauce, or a creamy mustard dip to complement the savory flavors.