If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than this Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe. These pillowy-soft rolls are generously filled with gooey mozzarella, aromatic garlic, and a hint of parmesan, all wrapped up in a golden, buttery crust. Perfect as a side for pasta night, a snack for gatherings, or a treat to up the cozy factor at home, they’ll quickly become your most requested bake. Prepare to fall in love with every cheesy, garlicky swirl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun, and with this recipe, every component brings something special to the table. From rich dairy to fresh herbs, each one is a building block of the irresistible flavor and fluffy texture that make these rolls unforgettable.
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp, 1 packet): The magic behind the lift and fluffy texture, ensuring your rolls rise beautifully.
- Warm milk (1 cup, 110°F): Adds richness and tenderness to the dough—make sure it’s just warm to activate the yeast, not hot.
- Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Feeds the yeast and brings a gentle sweetness to balance all that savory goodness.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The sturdy base for your dough, yielding rolls that are soft yet substantial.
- Salt (1 tsp): Balances the flavors and enhances the savoriness throughout.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/4 cup): Makes the dough extra tender and adds rich, buttery flavor.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together for a smooth, supple dough.
- Filling:
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Brushed on the dough for delicious richness with every bite.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): The star ingredient, infusing every swirl with bold flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella (1 1/2 cups): Melts into gooey ribbons inside each roll—so satisfying!
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds salty, nutty depth to the filling.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tbsp, optional): For a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor.
- Topping:
- Melted butter (2 tbsp): Brushed on warm rolls for an irresistible glossy finish.
- Minced garlic (1 clove): A finishing touch of garlicky aroma as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Extra parsley and Parmesan: For garnish, adding visual appeal and flavor just before serving.
How to Make Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by combining warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until it turns foamy on top. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to give your rolls their heavenly fluffiness.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
To the foamy yeast mixture, add all-purpose flour, salt, softened butter, and one large egg. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms. Then, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes—aim for a dough that’s smooth, elastic, and just a bit tacky to the touch. Pop the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, gather your filling ingredients: melt the butter, mince the garlic, and get your shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and parsley ready. Having everything prepped now will make the next step quick and satisfying—you’ll want to sprinkle these generous layers in every nook!
Step 4: Roll, Fill, and Slice
Once your dough has doubled, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12×16 inches). Brush the entire surface with melted butter, then scatter the minced garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley evenly over top. Starting from one long side, roll it up tightly into a log, then use a sharp knife (or dental floss for extra precision) to slice it into 12 even rounds.
Step 5: Second Rise and Bake
Arrange the rolls, spiral-side up, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them and let them puff up for another 30 to 40 minutes—this is when the Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe really comes to life. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the rolls are golden and the cheese is bubbling their centers.
Step 6: Add the Buttery Garlic Topping
While the rolls bake, prepare your topping by stirring together melted butter and minced garlic. As soon as the rolls emerge, brush them generously with this garlic butter and shower on extra Parmesan and parsley. The aroma is out of this world, and the finish is drool-worthy!
How to Serve Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To add that perfect finishing touch, sprinkle your warm rolls with extra grated Parmesan and a flurry of fresh parsley. These garnishes not only make them look stunning but also add another layer of flavor and color that everyone will love.
Side Dishes
This Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe pairs fabulously with all kinds of main courses. Serve them alongside a steaming bowl of tomato soup, classic spaghetti and meatballs, or a fresh green salad. They even work as an appetizer for parties or cozy nights in.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra splash of fun, try arranging the rolls in a circular pattern on a platter, pulling them apart at the table for a show-stopping reveal. You can also cut them into mini rolls for bite-sized party snacks, or place a bowl of marinara sauce in the center for dipping. The possibilities are as delightful as the rolls themselves!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover garlic cheese rolls keep wonderfully! Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, pop them into the refrigerator, where they’ll stay soft for up to four days.
Freezing
These rolls freeze like a dream. Arrange cooled rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture beautifully for up to two months—perfect for busy weeks or last-minute guests!
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the rolls in a 300°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or microwave individual rolls for 20 to 30 seconds. For that just-baked taste, sprinkle with a tiny bit of water before reheating to keep them soft and steamy inside.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity, and you can skip the initial blooming step—just add it straight in with the flour and other ingredients.
How do I make the Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the rolls completely (right after slicing and arranging in the pan), cover them snugly, and refrigerate overnight. Just let them come to room temperature and finish their second rise before baking as directed.
Can I add other cheeses or fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to play around; try sharp cheddar or provolone, or toss in a handful of cooked bacon bits or chopped fresh herbs for a fun twist on the Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
No worries—dried parsley works, or you can leave it out. You’ll still have loads of garlicky, cheesy flavor in every bite.
How do I know when the rolls are baked through?
The tops should be deep golden and the cheese inside should be bubbling. If you gently tap a roll, it will sound slightly hollow and feel springy—a great sign they’re baked just right!
Final Thoughts
If you crave soft, cheesy bread with an irresistible garlic aroma, this Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe is truly the answer. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to bake for family dinners, holiday spreads, or any time you want to share a seriously delicious, homemade treat!
Print
Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Homemade Garlic Cheese Rolls are the perfect combination of savory garlic, gooey cheese, and fluffy bread. They are great as a side dish or a delicious snack. These rolls are sure to impress your family and friends with their amazing flavor and soft, pillowy texture.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Topping:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Extra parsley and Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Dough Preparation: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy. Add flour, salt, softened butter, and egg. Knead until smooth. Let rise.
- Rolling and Filling: Roll out dough, brush with butter, sprinkle with garlic, cheeses, and parsley. Roll up and cut into slices.
- Baking: Place rolls in a baking dish, let rise, then bake until golden.
- Topping and Serving: Mix topping butter with garlic. Brush over warm rolls and garnish before serving.
Notes
- You can prep these ahead and refrigerate overnight before the second rise.
- Try adding cooked bacon bits or herbs to the filling for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
