When game day rolls around, or you’re hosting a cozy gathering, the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen for hours. That’s where these decadent Antipasto Squares come in! With their delightful buttery crust and a filling bursting with savory meats and cheeses, they’re the ultimate finger food that your guests won’t be able to resist.
Imagine the contrasting warmth of melted provolone and mozzarella mingling with zesty pepperoni and pepperoncini. The simple pleasure of each bite transports you back to festive gatherings where laughter fills the air, and the food is as memorable as the company. Plus, they are so quick to assemble, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the game or entertain your friends. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack, an eye-catching appetizer, or just something different to shake up your menu, these Antipasto Squares are your winning play! Let’s dive into the easy steps to create this mouthwatering dish.
Why are Antipasto Squares a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is packed with the savory goodness of deli meats and melted cheeses that keep your taste buds dancing.
Quick Assembly: No complicated steps here! You can whip these up in no time, allowing you more time with friends and family.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize to your heart’s content! Swap in your favorite cheeses or add extra toppings to make it your own.
Perfect For Any Occasion: Whether game day or a casual get-together, these appetizers are a crowd-pleaser that turns any gathering into a celebration.
Fun To Share: Serve them warm for a delightful finger food experience, making sure nobody misses out on the fun!
Antipasto Squares Ingredients
• Get ready for a delicious flavor adventure!
For the Base
- Crescent Dough – Provides a flaky, buttery base; refrigerated dough works best for a delightful texture.
For the Filling
- Deli Ham – Adds savory depth and protein; substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Pepperoni – Introduces a tangy, spicy flavor; can replace with salami or omit for a vegetarian option.
- Sliced Provolone – Melts beautifully, contributing creaminess; swap with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Sliced Mozzarella – Offers stretchy texture and mild flavor; you can substitute with any melting cheese, like Monterey Jack.
- Sliced Pepperoncini – Provides a subtle heat and tang; swap with pickled jalapeños for extra spice or olives for a milder taste.
For the Topping
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and helps achieve a golden-brown color; can be substituted with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan – Complements savory flavors with a salty kick; fresh is recommended for best flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
- Dried Oregano – Adds aromatic herbal notes; consider using fresh oregano for a more vibrant taste in your Antipasto Squares.
How to Make Antipasto Squares
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Preheat your oven according to the crescent dough package instructions, typically around 350°F. This will ensure even baking for those delightful squares.
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Roll out one tube of crescent dough onto a greased baking dish, stretching it out to cover the bottom evenly. This flaky base is essential for that buttery goodness!
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Layer the deli ham, pepperoni, provolone, mozzarella, and pepperoncini over the dough. Get creative with your layers for a delightful flavor explosion!
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Top it off with the second tube of crescent dough, making sure to seal the edges tightly to keep all those savory fillings in. A well-sealed edge is key!
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Brush with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan and oregano. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and aromatic.
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Cool the Antipasto Squares for a few minutes, then slice into squares for serving. These squares are best enjoyed warm!
Optional: Serve with marinara sauce for a delicious dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Antipasto Squares are an absolute game changer for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance by following these steps: Prepare the squares as per the instructions, but instead of baking them right away, cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove the wrap and bake them from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed. Enjoy the delightful convenience of having a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready to go with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Antipasto Squares
Room Temperature: Antipasto Squares can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but it’s best to refrigerate leftovers promptly to ensure freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover Antipasto Squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that freshly baked taste.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the squares for up to 2 months. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: For best results, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp.
Antipasto Squares Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these Antipasto Squares to suit your taste!
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace all meats with roasted vegetables and add feta or ricotta cheese for a fresh twist. The rich flavors still shine through without the meat.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeño slices or spicy sausage to elevate your squares with heat. This variation spices things up beautifully!
- Cheesy Medley: Mix up the cheese types by adding cheddar or blue cheese for a zesty flavor profile. Each cheese brings a unique twist to the heart of this dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crescent dough or a pre-made gluten-free crust for a lighter, inclusive alternative that everyone can enjoy. It’s just as delightful!
- Herbed Infusion: Toss in fresh basil or rosemary for an aromatic boost that transforms these squares into a fragrant masterpiece. Fresh herbs can make a world of difference!
- Hawaiian Style: Add pineapple chunks alongside ham for a sweet-and-savory combo that surprises the palate in the best way. A tropical twist keeps things exciting!
- BBQ Influence: Swap in BBQ pulled chicken and cheddar cheese to give your squares a fun barbecue flavor. Great for summer gatherings with a taste of the grill.
- Mediterranean Vibe: Use sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to create a Mediterranean version that bursts with flavor and color. Each bite is like a vacation on your plate!
Expert Tips for Antipasto Squares
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Seal Those Edges: Ensure the crescent dough edges are tightly sealed to prevent any delicious fillings from leaking out during baking.
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Bake for Crispiness: For a crispier texture, consider baking a few minutes longer but keep a close eye to avoid over-browning.
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Layer Wisely: Don’t skimp on the fillings! A well-distributed layer of meats and cheeses creates a balanced flavor in your Antipasto Squares.
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Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Adding roasted red peppers or olives can elevate the flavor and make the dish uniquely yours.
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Serve Warm: Antipasto Squares are best enjoyed warm. Reheat gently in the oven if made ahead to maintain that delightful, gooey interior.
What to Serve with Antipasto Squares?
When you’re planning the perfect gathering, these savory squares can inspire a whole menu that delights the senses.
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Marinara Sauce: Serve alongside for dipping; its rich flavors complement the savory filling beautifully.
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Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens balances the richness of the Antipasto Squares, adding a crisp texture that brightens the plate.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a perfect partner, giving guests another option for dipping and savoring.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries provide an interesting contrast to the savory squares. They’re a delightful twist that everyone will love!
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Charcuterie Board: Create a fun spread featuring assorted meats, cheeses, and fruits. This way, guests can choose complementary bites to enhance their experience.
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Wine Pairing: Choose a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, which accentuates the flavors without overpowering the savory tastes.
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Dessert Platter: Finish the meal with bite-sized treats like cookies or mini cheesecakes, perfect for guests to indulge while mingling!
Let these pairings transform your gathering into a sensory delight, elevating the joy of your Antipasto Squares!
Antipasto Squares Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for the ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting deli meats, look for freshness with no dark spots or odors. For cheeses like provolone and mozzarella, choose ones that feel slightly firm to the touch and are well within their expiration dates for the best melt. Fresh pepperoncini should be vibrant and crisp, while crescent dough should be checked for any signs of damage in the packaging.
How should I store leftover Antipasto Squares?
After your gathering, store leftover Antipasto Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until they’re warmed through and regain that delightful crispiness. Enjoy them just like you did on the first day!
Can I freeze Antipasto Squares?
Yes, you can! To freeze Antipasto Squares, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring they’re sealed to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen by baking at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until they are hot and crispy.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t seal properly?
Very often, sealing the dough can be tricky! If you find the dough not sticking well at the edges, use a little bit of water on your finger to moisten the edges before pressing them together. Alternatively, you can pinch or crimp the edges for a better seal. If leaks do occur while baking, don’t worry too much; just enjoy those crispy bits as a bonus!
Are there any dietary considerations for Antipasto Squares?
Absolutely! If you’re hosting friends with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For those avoiding gluten, consider using gluten-free crescent dough. Vegans can substitute all dairy products with plant-based cheeses and opt for veggies instead of meats. Also, check the deli meats for common allergens, such as gluten or dairy, to accommodate your guests comfortably.
How long can I keep Antipasto Squares at room temperature?
Antipasto Squares can be safely left out at room temperature for about 2 hours. If you’re serving them at a longer event, it’s best to keep them warm in a slow cooker or wrapped in foil to maintain freshness. After that, any leftovers should be refrigerated promptly to ensure they stay delicious!
Enjoy creating your Antipasto Squares and don’t hesitate to get creative with them!
Irresistible Antipasto Squares: Perfect for Game Day Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the crescent dough package instructions, typically around 350°F.
- Roll out one tube of crescent dough onto a greased baking dish, stretching it out to cover the bottom evenly.
- Layer the deli ham, pepperoni, provolone, mozzarella, and pepperoncini over the dough.
- Top it off with the second tube of crescent dough, sealing the edges tightly.
- Brush with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and oregano. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool the Antipasto Squares for a few minutes, then slice into squares for serving.