Name: Spicy Italian Crescent Ring
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls (8 oz each); 0.25 lb sliced Genoa salami; 0.25 lb sliced pepperoni; 0.25 lb sliced hot capicola or spicy ham; 0.25 lb sliced provolone cheese; 0.25 cup banana peppers or jalapeño slices 2 tbsp melted butter; 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning; 0.25 tsp garlic powder Optional marinara sauce for dipping

Imagine pulling a golden crescent ring from the oven, packed with zesty Italian meats, melty cheese, and a subtle kick of pepper heat. This Spicy Italian Crescent Ring is the kind of crowd-pleasing appetizer or quick-fix dinner that vanishes in minutes. It looks impressive but comes together with ease, making it a perfect go-to when you’re short on time but still want to impress.

The buttery crescent dough wraps around layers of salami, pepperoni, capicola, and provolone, all finished with a brush of seasoned butter. Add in banana peppers or jalapeños for that spicy edge, and you’ve got yourself a ring that brings bold flavor to any table. It’s delicious warm or at room temperature, so it travels well for potlucks or tailgates too.

What Kind of Crescent Dough Should I Use?

Refrigerated crescent roll dough is your best bet here. You can use the classic pre-cut version or the crescent sheet if you want a seamless look. The individual triangles are easier for shaping the ring, but both work beautifully. Just make sure it stays cold until you’re ready to assemble—it’s easier to work with and gives the best bake.

Ingredients for the Spicy Italian Crescent Ring

2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls (8 oz each)
1/4 lb sliced Genoa salami
1/4 lb sliced pepperoni
1/4 lb sliced hot capicola or spicy ham
1/4 lb sliced provolone cheese
1/4 cup banana peppers or jalapeño slices
2 tbsp melted butter
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Optional: marinara sauce for dipping

How To Make the Spicy Italian Crescent Ring

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Arrange the Crescent Dough

Separate the crescent dough triangles and lay them in a circle with the points outward and the wide ends slightly overlapping to form a ring.

Step 3: Layer the Fillings

On the widest part of the dough (the inner ring), layer slices of salami, pepperoni, capicola, and provolone. Add banana peppers or jalapeños over the top for that spicy kick.

Step 4: Fold and Seal

Carefully fold the pointed ends of the dough over the fillings and tuck them under the inner edge to seal the ring.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Mix melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Brush it generously over the dough. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with warm marinara on the side if desired.

Serving and Storing This Spicy Italian Crescent Ring

This dish is best served warm, fresh from the oven, with a side of marinara for dipping. It also holds up beautifully at room temperature, which makes it a hit for brunch spreads, parties, or game day gatherings.

Leftovers? Simply wrap slices in foil or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through—the dough stays flaky and the cheese melty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ring ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the ring (without brushing the butter) and refrigerate covered for up to 6 hours. Add the butter mixture just before baking.

What can I use instead of crescent rolls?

Puff pastry or pizza dough work too. Puff pastry will be flakier, and pizza dough gives a chewier texture.

Is it spicy-hot or just flavorful?

It depends on your fillings! Use hot capicola and jalapeños for more heat, or stick with milder salami and banana peppers for a gentler kick.

Can I freeze the baked ring?

Yes, but the texture is best fresh. If freezing, wrap tightly and reheat in the oven rather than microwave to restore crispness.

Can I add veggies?

Absolutely. Thinly sliced red onions, roasted red peppers, or baby spinach make great additions without overwhelming the ring.

Want More Savory Crescent Creations?

If you’re loving this Spicy Italian Crescent Ring, don’t miss these other savory bites:

Try the Buffalo Chicken Calzone for a creamy-spicy stuffed bread.
Need a breakfast twist? Tasty English Muffin Breakfast Pizza is a morning hit.
These Sausage Rolls are perfect for party platters.
Or warm up with a cozy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles.
Want something ultra cheesy? Cheesy Pizza Bombs are always a hit.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest party board so you can pull it up whenever guests are on the way.

Let me know how you layered yours! Did you go full spice or mix it up with different meats and cheeses? Share in the comments below—I’d love to hear what twist you put on your ring.

For more easy and flavorful recipes like this, follow me on Pinterest: Nina Dishes

Spicy Italian Crescent Ring

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Italian Crescent Ring is a savory crowd-pleaser made with flaky crescent dough, layers of Italian meats, melty provolone cheese, and a kick of banana peppers or jalapeños. Brushed with seasoned butter and baked to golden perfection, it’s ideal for parties, game day, or even dinner.