Garlic Bread Rolls

Introduction

Garlic Bread Rolls are soft, buttery, and loaded with the rich flavor of garlic and herbs. These fluffy rolls are perfect as a side dish for any meal, whether it’s a cozy pasta night or a holiday feast. Made from scratch or with the help of pre-made dough, they’re easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

I first tried making these rolls for a family dinner, and they instantly became a must-have at every gathering. The combination of warm, golden-brown bread brushed with garlic-infused butter and sprinkled with fresh parsley creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen. They’re the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside, making them completely irresistible.

These rolls are versatile too—you can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor or serve them with marinara or a creamy dipping sauce. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, Garlic Bread Rolls are a delicious, crowd-pleasing addition to any table.

Perfect for:

• Pasta dinners
• Holiday meals
• Potlucks and gatherings
• Soups and stews
• Anytime you crave fresh, homemade bread

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Bread Rolls

Here’s why Garlic Bread Rolls will become your go-to side dish:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These rolls are pillowy soft and perfect for soaking up sauces and soups.
• Garlic Butter Goodness: The rich garlic butter topping makes them absolutely irresistible.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can add cheese, herbs, or spices to make these rolls your own.
• Easy to Make: Whether you use homemade or store-bought dough, these rolls are simple to prepare.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves garlic bread, and these rolls are a fun twist on the classic.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes proofing time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 24g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Garlic Bread Rolls:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Active Dry Yeast: Ensures the rolls rise and become fluffy. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to both the dough and the garlic topping.
• Garlic and Parsley: Provide bold, aromatic flavors that make these rolls irresistible.
• Parmesan Cheese: An optional topping that adds a savory, cheesy twist to the rolls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Garlic Bread Rolls:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the softened butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook and knead for 5-6 minutes.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Bake the Rolls:

5. Divide the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball.
6. Arrange the Rolls: Place the dough balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
7. Second Rise: Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes, until puffy.
8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Add the Garlic Butter Topping:

10. Make the Topping: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, salt, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
11. Brush the Rolls: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, generously brush them with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle extra parsley or Parmesan on top if desired.
12. Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic Bread Rolls are a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with many meals:

• With Pasta: Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or any Italian dish.
• With Soup: Perfect for dipping into tomato soup, creamy chowders, or stews.
• As a Snack: Enjoy on their own or with a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch.
• At Parties: Arrange on a platter for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish.

Additional Tips for Garlic Bread Rolls

Here are some tips to ensure your Garlic Bread Rolls turn out perfectly every time:

• Proof the Dough Properly: Letting the dough rise sufficiently is key to soft, fluffy rolls.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor for the butter topping.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls in the oven to prevent them from drying out.
• Make Them Cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the dough or sprinkle it on top before baking for a cheesy version.
• Freeze the Dough: You can freeze the dough after shaping it into rolls. Thaw and let rise before baking as directed.
• Adjust the Garlic Flavor: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, sauté the minced garlic in butter before brushing it onto the rolls.

Recipe Variations for Garlic Bread Rolls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Garlic Bread Rolls:

• Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Stuff each roll with shredded mozzarella cheese before baking.
• Herb Garlic Rolls: Add dried Italian herbs or rosemary to the butter topping for an extra burst of flavor.
• Whole Wheat Garlic Rolls: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Spicy Garlic Rolls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Knot Rolls: Shape the dough into knots instead of balls for a fun twist.
• Vegan Garlic Rolls: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg to make these rolls vegan-friendly.
• Garlic Pull-Apart Rolls: Arrange the dough balls in a bundt pan for a pull-apart version.
• Rosemary and Sea Salt Rolls: Top with fresh rosemary sprigs and flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch.
• Stuffed Rolls: Fill the dough with a mixture of spinach and ricotta for a savory surprise.
• Sweet Garlic Rolls: Add a touch of honey or sugar to the garlic butter for a sweet-savory flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage for Garlic Bread Rolls

• Freezing: Freeze the baked rolls for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment for Garlic Bread Rolls

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Garlic Bread Rolls easier:

• Stand Mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading easier.
• Pastry Brush: Use a pastry brush to evenly spread the garlic butter topping.
• Baking Dish or Sheet: Use a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large baking sheet for uniform baking.
• Kitchen Scale: For evenly sized rolls, weigh the dough portions with a kitchen scale.
• Cooling Rack: Cool the rolls on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions for Garlic Bread Rolls

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
   Yes, you can use instant yeast. Skip the activation step and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
2. Can I use pre-made dough?
   Absolutely! Store-bought dough works well if you’re short on time.
3. How can I make these ahead of time?
   Prepare the rolls through the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
4. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, simply double all the ingredients to make a larger batch.
5. Can I make gluten-free garlic rolls?
   Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast baking.

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Conclusion

Garlic Bread Rolls are a must-have addition to any meal, combining the classic flavors of garlic and butter with the soft, fluffy texture of freshly baked bread. Whether you’re serving them alongside your favorite pasta, soup, or salad, or enjoying them as a standalone snack, these rolls are always a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious, making it perfect for casual family dinners or special gatherings. Customize them with herbs or cheese for an extra layer of flavor, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds. The irresistible aroma of garlic and the warmth of freshly baked bread make these rolls an instant favorite.

I’d love to see how your Garlic Bread Rolls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!