Antipasto Squares are a savory, Italian-inspired dish that combines the vibrant flavors of an antipasto platter into a delicious, easy-to-make snack or appetizer. Flaky, buttery pastry is layered with a medley of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables, then baked to golden perfection. These squares are full of bold flavors and perfect for sharing at any gathering.
I first made these when I wanted to bring a fun twist to an antipasto spread, and they quickly became a hit. The flaky crust paired with the salty meats, creamy cheeses, and tangy veggies made for the perfect bite every time. They’re simple to prepare but look and taste like something special—perfect for parties or as a unique appetizer.
What’s great about Antipasto Squares is how customizable they are. You can switch up the meats (try beef salami, prosciutto, or turkey pepperoni), add different cheeses (like mozzarella or provolone), or even throw in some fresh basil or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you’re making them for a party, a potluck, or just for a fun snack, these squares are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for:
- Game day snacks
- Holiday gatherings
- Family get-togethers
- Potlucks and parties
- Italian food lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Antipasto Squares will become your go-to appetizer:
- Savory and Satisfying: A delicious combination of meats, cheeses, and seasonings.
- Perfectly Cheesy: Layers of provolone and mozzarella create a rich, melty texture.
- Flaky Crescent Crust: Buttery crescent dough adds a crisp yet tender bite.
- Customizable Ingredients: Swap in your favorite meats, cheeses, or add olives for extra flavor.
- Great for Any Occasion: From casual family meals to upscale gatherings, these squares fit right in.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked fresh before serving.
- Easy to Transport: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or tailgating.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Always a hit at parties and gatherings.
- Balanced Flavors: The mix of salty, tangy, and cheesy elements is simply irresistible.
- Effortless Preparation: Uses simple, store-bought ingredients for quick assembly.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 squares
- Calories per serving: Approximately 320-350 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 12g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 22g
Ingredients
For the Layers:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- ¼ lb sliced beef ham
- ¼ lb sliced beef salami
- ¼ lb sliced turkey pepperoni
- ¼ lb sliced provolone cheese
- ¼ lb sliced mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
For the Egg Wash and Seasoning:
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Highlights
- Crescent Dough: Creates a light, flaky crust that holds everything together.
- Italian Cured Meats: A flavorful mix of beef ham, beef salami, and turkey pepperoni.
- Melty Cheese: Provolone and mozzarella bring richness and gooey texture.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Add a touch of sweetness and color.
- Egg Wash: Ensures a golden, glossy finish on the crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Base:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Bottom Crust: Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the dish, sealing any seams.
Assemble the Layers:
- Add the Meats: Layer the beef ham, beef salami, and turkey pepperoni evenly over the dough.
- Add the Cheese: Place provolone and mozzarella slices over the meats.
- Add the Peppers: Evenly distribute the chopped roasted red peppers on top.
Seal the Top and Bake:
- Top with Dough: Unroll the second can of crescent dough and place it over the filling, pinching edges to seal.
- Prepare Egg Wash: Beat the eggs with Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Brush and Bake: Spread the egg mixture over the top dough layer. Bake for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve:
- Cool and Slice: Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Here are 9 ways to enjoy Antipasto Squares:
- As a Party Appetizer: Arrange on a platter for easy grabbing.
- With Marinara Sauce: Serve with warm marinara for dipping.
- Paired with a Salad: A perfect complement to a fresh Italian salad.
- As a Game Day Snack: Great for sharing while watching sports.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Cut into bite-sized pieces for variety.
- For Lunch: Enjoy with a side of soup for a hearty meal.
- With Spicy Mustard: Adds an extra kick to the flavor.
- Wrapped for On-the-Go: Perfect for road trips or picnics.
- Topped with Fresh Basil: Enhances the Italian flavors beautifully.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for high-quality deli meats, cheeses, and fresh herbs to enhance the flavors.
- Prevent a Soggy Crust – Pre-bake the bottom crescent dough layer for 5 minutes before adding the fillings to keep it crisp.
- Customize the Fillings – Swap in your favorite cured meats like prosciutto or soppressata, and experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or pepper jack.
- Add a Kick – Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot honey over the top before baking for extra spice.
- Layer Evenly – Spread the meats, cheeses, and peppers in an even layer to ensure every bite is balanced and flavorful.
- Press Down Before Baking – Gently press the top crescent layer down to help it adhere to the filling, preventing gaps.
- Egg Wash for Golden Perfection – Brush the top with an egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Let It Rest – Allow the squares to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to help them set and prevent the cheese from oozing out.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead – Prepare the antipasto squares a day ahead and reheat in the oven for a quick and delicious appetizer.
- Serve with a Dip – Pair with marinara sauce, balsamic glaze, or a garlic aioli for added flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Italian Antipasto Squares – Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Antipasto Squares – Use feta cheese, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano for a Greek-inspired twist.
- Veggie Lover’s Antipasto Squares – Skip the meats and add roasted red peppers, spinach, mushrooms, and artichokes for a vegetarian version.
- Pesto Chicken Antipasto Squares – Swap out traditional deli meats for shredded rotisserie chicken tossed in basil pesto.
- Meat Lover’s Antipasto Squares – Load up on a mix of prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, and capicola for a hearty, protein-packed version.
- Caprese Antipasto Squares – Replace the deli meats with layers of fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil leaves for a lighter, fresh-flavored take.
- Breakfast Antipasto Squares – Add scrambled eggs, cooked beef bacon or turkey sausage, and cheddar cheese for a morning-friendly version.
- Buffalo Chicken Antipasto Squares – Use shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy, tangy alternative.
- Four-Cheese Antipasto Squares – Mix mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and ricotta for a gooey, cheese-lover’s delight.
- Low-Carb Antipasto Squares – Skip the crescent dough and bake the fillings as a crustless casserole for a keto-friendly option.
Special Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ensures even baking.
- Pastry Brush: For evenly applying egg wash.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For clean slices.
- Mixing Bowl: To whisk the egg wash.
- Silicone Baking Mat: Helps prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the squares to set properly before cutting.
FAQ Section
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze these?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results. - Do I have to use crescent dough?
No, you can substitute with puff pastry or pizza dough. - What can I serve with these?
Marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or balsamic glaze make great dipping options. - Can I add extra seasonings?
Absolutely! Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes add extra depth. - What’s the best way to reheat?
Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for a quick option. - Can I make a smaller batch?
Yes, cut the ingredients in half and use an 8×8-inch baking dish. - Can I make this without eggs?
Yes, you can skip the egg wash or use melted butter for a golden crust. - Are these good at room temperature?
Yes! They taste great warm or at room temp, making them perfect for parties.
Conclusion
Antipasto Squares are a savory, bite-sized treat that combine all the best flavors of an antipasto platter in a delicious, easy-to-eat form. These squares are made by layering savory meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables on a flaky, golden crust, creating the perfect balance of salty, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. They’re the perfect appetizer for parties, picnics, or as a fun and different way to enjoy antipasto.
This recipe is versatile—add your favorite ingredients like turkey pepperoncini, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers, or even throw in a little Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Serve with a side of marinara or Italian dressing for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time!
I can’t wait to see how your Antipasto Squares turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!