Instructions
1. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and half of the minced garlic. Break up the beef with a spoon. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the salt, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
2. **Unroll the Dough:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a large cutting board or parchment-lined baking sheet. Separate the dough into 8 triangles.
3. **Assemble the Rollups:** Place a quarter slice of cheese on the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the seasoned beef mixture over the cheese.
4. **Roll ’em Up:** Starting from the wide end, carefully roll up each crescent roll, encompassing the beef and cheese filling. Pinch the seams to seal, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
5. **Garlic Butter Glaze:** In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the remaining minced garlic. Brush the tops of the assembled rollups generously with the garlic butter.
6. **Bake:** Arrange the rollups on a baking sheetlined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and puffed, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. **Serve Hot:** Garnish with fresh parsley (if desired). Serve immediately with your favorite burger condiments for dipping.
Short Tips:
* **Don’t overfill:** Too much filling can make the rollups hard to seal and prone to leaking.
* **Cool the beef:** Letting the beef cool slightly before adding it to the dough prevents the dough from becoming soggy.
* **Get creative with cheese:** While American or cheddar are classic, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a kick, or mozzarella for an extra stretchy pull.
* **Add jalapeños:** For a spicy twist, finely dice some pickled jalapeños and add them to the beef mixture.
* **Make ahead:** You can assemble the rollups (without the garlic butter) and refrigerate them for an hour or two before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
* **Dipping sauces are key!** Ketchup, mustard, special burger sauce, or a spicy mayo all work wonderfully.
