Antipasto squares

Preparation Time & Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Cooling Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Yield: Serves 12 (depending on size of squares)

 What Are Antipasto Squares?

Antipasto Squares are the baked, savory cousin to your favorite Italian antipasto platter. Think flaky crescent roll dough layered with a variety of Italian deli meats, cheese, peppers, and olives—then baked until golden brown and deliciously melty. They’re cut into squares for a handheld appetizer that’s a crowd-pleaser at any event.

This recipe brings all the flavors of a classic antipasto platter into a warm, cheesy, golden bite. They’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, game day, or even served cold the next day from the fridge (yes, they’re that good).

 Ingredients

For the Layers:

• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or crescent dough sheets)

• 1/4 lb sliced Genoa salami

• 1/4 lb sliced ham

• 1/4 lb sliced pepperoni

• 1/4 lb sliced provolone cheese

• 1/4 lb sliced mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup roasted red bell peppers, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)

• 1/4 cup sliced banana peppers or pepperoncini (optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Egg Mixture:

• 3 large eggs

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp dried oregano

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Pinch of salt

 Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch baking dish

• Mixing bowl

• Whisk or fork

• Spatula or knife

• Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you prefer easy cleanup, line the dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Unroll one can of crescent dough and gently press it into the bottom of the baking dish. Pinch the seams together to seal if using regular crescent rolls. This forms your base layer.

Step 3: Start the Layers

Begin layering your deli meats and cheeses. There’s no strict order, but here’s a delicious suggestion:

1. Salami – for that spicy, garlicky base.

2. Provolone cheese – mellow and melty.

3. Ham – slightly sweet and juicy.

4. Roasted red peppers – for a pop of tangy flavor.

5. Mozzarella cheese – creamy and rich.

6. Pepperoni – crispy edges, bold flavor.

7. Olives or banana peppers – totally optional, but add a delicious briny kick.

Repeat or double up layers if you like things extra hearty.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Parmesan, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pour this evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. This binds everything together and gives the squares that creamy texture.

Step 5: Top It Off

Roll out the second can of crescent dough and lay it over the top. Try to seal the edges with the bottom crust to prevent leakage. Sprinkle the top with extra grated Parmesan if you’d like a golden, crispy top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffy. The edges should be nicely crisped, and the egg layer should be set.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes. This helps the layers set so the squares won’t fall apart when you cut them.

Use a sharp knife or spatula to cut into 12 (or more) squares, depending on how big you want your serv

 Variations & Tips

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the meats and go heavy on veggies like spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes.

• Spice it up: Add hot capicola or spicy soppressata for an extra kick.

• Use puff pastry for an even flakier, buttery texture.

• Serve with a side of marinara or pesto for dipping.

• Make ahead: You can assemble this dish a day in advance and bake it the day of your event. Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3–4 days.

 Pro Tips for Success

1. Pinch those seams tight: If using crescent rolls (instead of a sheet), make sure all the seams are well sealed to prevent leakage.

2. Cool before cutting: Cutting while hot will make the layers slide. A little patience pays off with clean, beautiful squares.

3. Use quality deli meats and cheeses for best flavor. Thin-sliced deli meats layer better and create a more balanced bite.

 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 Square)**

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on specific brands of ingredients used.

 Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave individual squares for 30–60 seconds.

• Freeze: Yes, these freeze well! Wrap each square in foil and store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

 Serving Ideas

Antipasto squares are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes:

• With wine: Try a glass of Chianti, Pinot Grigio, or your favorite red.

• On a platter: Serve with a small bowl of marinara, olives, and pickled vegetables.

• As a brunch item: These make a savory alternative to typical breakfast pastries.

• For game day: Cut smaller squares and serve with toothpicks for bite-sized fun.

 Final Thoughts

Antipasto Squares are a delicious way to turn a traditional Italian antipasto platter into a warm, satisfying baked dish that everyone will rave about. They’re easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for special occasions.

Whether you serve them fresh out of the oven or cold from the fridge, these squares deliver a mouthful of flavor in every bite. Give this recipe a try, and it just might become your new go-to appetizer!