Antipasto Squares are the ultimate finger food—savory, cheesy, and packed with the bold flavors of Italian deli meats and cheese, all layered between buttery crescent roll dough. Whether you’re planning a holiday party, game day feast, potluck dinner, or just a fun family meal, this dish brings big flavor with minimal effort. These hearty squares are inspired by a classic antipasto platter, making them the perfect fusion of comfort food and Italian tradition.
With easy-to-find ingredients and simple prep, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Deli Meats & Cheese
- ¼ pound sliced ham
- ¼ pound sliced salami
- ¼ pound sliced pepperoni
- ¼ pound sliced provolone cheese
- ¼ pound sliced mozzarella cheese
Veggie and Flavor Additions
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
Egg Mixture
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or softened butter to prevent sticking.
Build the Base Layer
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. Be sure to pinch all seams together to form a solid, unified layer. This will create a sturdy base for your filling.
Layer the Fillings
Start layering your ingredients in even layers:
- First, place the ham slices across the dough
- Add the salami slices next
- Follow with pepperoni, evenly distributed
- Layer the provolone, then mozzarella
- Finally, spread out the sliced roasted red peppers
Make the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Grated Parmesan
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper
This flavorful egg mixture will help bind the filling and add richness to every bite.
Add Egg Mixture and Top Layer
- Pour half of the egg mixture evenly over the layered meats, cheese, and peppers.
- Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully lay it over the filling. Pinch seams again to create a solid top.
- Brush the remaining egg mixture over the top to encourage a golden, glossy finish.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly.
Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut clean squares.
Slice into 12–16 squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Antipasto Squares
- Seal the dough seams completely: Preventing the filling from leaking ensures a tidy presentation and better texture.
- Distribute egg mixture evenly: Don’t pour it all in one spot—drizzle evenly so all the layers hold together nicely.
- Let it cool before slicing: Cutting too soon can cause the filling to slide out. Cooling time is key.
- Use parchment paper if you want an even easier cleanup and cleaner removal from the pan.
Tasty Variations
Veggie Lovers Version
Skip the meats and add grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. A sprinkle of feta cheese brings added flavor.
Spicy Italian Twist
Add sliced banana peppers, pepperoncini, or jalapeños to the filling for some heat.
Olive Infusion
Toss in some sliced black or green olives for briny boldness—great for true antipasto fans.
Mediterranean Spin
Swap salami and ham for sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and crumbled feta for a fresh flavor shift.
Serving Ideas
Appetizer Platter
Place the squares on a wooden board alongside mini skewers of mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes, olives, and salami for an Italian-themed starter tray.
Pair With Marinara
Offer a small bowl of warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the dish.
Make It a Meal
Serve with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette for a complete, well-rounded lunch or light dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Antipasto Squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the squares up to 1 day in advance, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time if starting cold from the fridge.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Absolutely. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispness of the dough.
Can I freeze Antipasto Squares?
Yes. After baking and cooling completely, wrap individual squares in foil and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Can I substitute puff pastry?
Yes, puff pastry can be used instead of crescent dough for a flakier texture. Just be sure to thaw it fully and adjust bake time as needed—closer to 35–40 minutes.
What can I use instead of roasted red peppers?
You can use sun-dried tomatoes, grilled bell peppers, or even marinated artichokes if you prefer different vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with store-bought crescent dough
- Endlessly customizable with your favorite deli meats and cheeses
- Perfect for gatherings, whether it’s holidays, game day, or potlucks
- Great warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile party dish
- Kid and adult approved – it’s cheesy, meaty, and comforting
Antipasto Squares are more than just a party snack—they’re a crave-worthy dish that brings together the best flavors of an Italian antipasto platter in a convenient, hand-held square. With flaky layers, melted cheese, and bold, savory fillings, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite for entertaining or even casual family dinners.