There’s a certain joy that envelops a kitchen when the scent of baking rolls mingles with the pungent aroma of garlic and melting butter. Just the thought of those fluffy, golden Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls pulling apart effortlessly is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a rainy afternoon, searching for comfort food that would transform a simple dinner into a feast of flavors.
These rolls are not just easy to make but are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Imagine serving warm, garlicky bliss alongside a hearty soup or a fresh salad—your family will be begging for seconds! With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience for rising time, you can elevate your dinner experience from mundane to memorable. Trust me, once you try these homemade rolls, you’ll be saying goodbye to store-bought options forever! So, let’s dive into making these perfect Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls that bring warmth and comfort to every table.
Why try these Garlic Bread Rolls?
Heavenly Aroma: The moment these rolls hit the oven, your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering scent of garlic and butter that invites everyone to gather around the table.
Quick Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have freshly baked rolls ready in no time, bringing warmth to busy weeknights.
Ultimate Comfort Food: They pair beautifully with soups, salads, or as a standalone snack, making them incredibly versatile for any meal or gathering.
Crowd Favorite: These rolls promise to impress your family and friends, ensuring they’re always a hit at gatherings or holiday dinners!
Garlic Bread Rolls Ingredients
For the Roll Dough
• Unsalted butter – 4 1/2 tablespoons, melted, adds rich flavor and a beautiful texture to the rolls.
• Minced garlic – 2 tablespoons, infuses the dough with that irresistible garlic taste.
• All-purpose flour – 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon, the main structure of the rolls for a soft and fluffy center.
• Chopped fresh parsley – 3 tablespoons, lends a fresh herbaceous note and brightens the flavor profile.
• Granulated sugar – 1 tablespoon, helps to activate the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
• Instant yeast – 2 1/4 teaspoons, ensures your Garlic Bread Rolls rise perfectly every time.
• Fine sea salt – 1 teaspoon, enhances all other flavors, making the rolls savory and delicious.
• Milk – 1 cup whole or 2%, warmed to 110°F, contributes moisture and a tender crumb.
• Large egg – 1, at room temperature, binds everything together and enriches the dough.
• Beaten egg – for brushing the tops, gives the rolls a beautiful golden-brown finish.
For the Garlic Butter
• Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, melted, to mix with garlic for a decadent topping.
• Minced garlic – 1 tablespoon, amplifies the garlic flavor that seeps into the rolls.
• Chopped fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, adds a splash of color and freshness to the garlic butter.
• Flaky sea salt – for finishing, a sprinkle adds an irresistible crunch and pops of flavor.
These ingredients come together to create the most delightful Garlic Bread Rolls that will fill your home with warmth and joy!
How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls
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Prepare the Pan: Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside, ensuring your rolls will come out easily once baked.
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Melt Butter: In a small pot, melt the 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and add the 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic becomes fragrant, then remove from heat and let cool while you gather the other ingredients.
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Mix the Dough: In a stand mixing bowl, combine the 3 1/2 cups of flour, 3 tablespoons of parsley, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the warmed milk, your egg, and the garlic butter to the mixture. Knead on low speed with the dough hook for about 10-12 minutes until the dough appears smooth and feels soft and tacky.
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Shape the Rolls: Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (around 67 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball, pinching the bottom seam tightly to keep its shape. Place the dough balls in the prepared pan, making sure to leave a little space between them.
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Rise the Dough: Cover the shaped rolls with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, which should take about 1-2 hours.
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Preheat the Oven: Once the rolls have risen nicely, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for baking.
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Bake the Rolls: Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash. Bake these beautiful rolls for 20-30 minutes until they are golden brown, filling your home with a delightful aroma.
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Make Garlic Butter: While the rolls are baking, prepare the garlic butter. In a pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, then stir in 1 tablespoon of parsley.
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Finish and Serve: When the rolls come out of the oven, immediately brush them with the homemade garlic butter. If you like, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an extra burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy goodness!
Optional: Serve these rolls with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Bread Rolls
Room Temperature: Store the rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring they stay soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you have leftover rolls, keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days in a sealed bag to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To revive the rolls, simply reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, brushing with a bit of garlic butter for extra flavor!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of freshly baked rolls to enhance any meal experience; let’s create something beautifully satisfying together.
- Hearty Soup: Pair these rolls with a creamy potato or minestrone soup for a comforting, filling meal that hugs you from the inside out.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp seasonal salad adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft, buttery rolls, making each bite a delight.
- Savory Pasta Dish: Serve alongside spaghetti aglio e olio or fettuccine Alfredo; the garlicky bread complements pasta beautifully, perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Experienced together, garlic butter rolls and seasoned roasted veggies shine with contrasting textures and mouthwatering aromas that elevate your dining experience.
- Grilled Chicken: The juicy flavors of grilled chicken pair wonderfully; dunking those soft rolls into chicken juices will make you feel like you’re savoring a gourmet meal at home.
- Sangria or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink brings a lovely balance; the sweetness of sangria is delightful against the savory notes of the rolls.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light but rich chocolate mousse offers a sweet surprise after those garlicky rolls, leaving everyone wanting to linger a little longer at the table.
Garlic Bread Rolls Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and customize these delightful rolls for a unique twist on a classic favorite!
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Herb-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of dried Italian herbs to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
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Cheesy Bliss: Fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the dough before shaping for a gooey surprise in every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a delightful heat that balances the rich garlic butter.
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Olive Oil Upgrade: Substitute olive oil for half of the butter for a Mediterranean flair that enhances the rolls’ flavor.
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Whole Wheat Option: Use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour for a heartier version without sacrificing texture.
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Sweet Twist: Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped sundried tomatoes for a sweet and savory flavor combination that elevates the rolls.
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Vegan Alternative: Replace the butter with vegan margarine and use almond or soy milk, keeping the garlic and herbs for that beloved taste.
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Stuffed Surprise: Create mini stuffed rolls by placing a small cube of cheese or a slice of pepperoni in the center of each dough ball before shaping.
Each variation offers a delightful new persona to your Garlic Bread Rolls experience, inviting more joy into your kitchen!
Tips for the Best Garlic Bread Rolls
Kneading Time: Ensure you knead for 10-12 minutes: This develops gluten for a wonderfully fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step!
Dough Consistency: Adjust flour gradually: If your dough feels too sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time until you have a workable dough to avoid dense rolls.
Rising Environment: Find a warm spot for rising: Place your dough in a warm area, like near a preheating oven, to help it rise properly and double in size.
Egg Wash: Apply evenly for a golden finish: Brush the beaten egg wash evenly over the tops before baking to achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Freshness Matters: Use fresh parsley and garlic: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor and aroma of these Garlic Bread Rolls, making your homemade treats truly special!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are a fantastic recipe for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the rolls are shaped, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, bring the rolls back to room temperature and let them rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours before preheating your oven. This ensures they’ll puff up beautifully while maintaining their delightful texture. You can also prepare the garlic butter ahead of time; just store it in the fridge and reheat it just before brushing on the rolls for that melty, garlicky goodness. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of freshly baked rolls on busy weeknights!
Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best garlic for my rolls?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for firm, plump heads of garlic without dark spots or soft spots. Fresh garlic has a strong aroma and vibrant color. If the cloves are dried out or have begun to sprout, opt for a fresh head!
How should I store my leftover Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, place them in a sealed bag in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, and how?
Absolutely! Once your rolls have cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes for that fresh-baked goodness!
What can I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, there could be a couple of reasons. First, check the yeast expiration date—if it’s past its date, it won’t work. Next, ensure you’re placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area; a temperature of around 75-80°F is ideal for rising. If the room is too cool, try placing it near a preheating oven for encouragement!
Are these Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls safe for pets?
No, it’s important to note that garlic can be toxic to dogs and other pets. While these rolls are delicious for human consumption, ensure they are kept well out of reach from our furry friends to keep them safe!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to create a nuttier flavor and add some nutritional value. However, keep an eye on the dough consistency, as you might need a little more liquid to achieve that soft and tacky texture.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Garlic Bread Rolls for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.
- In a small pot, melt the 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and add the 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant, then remove from heat and let cool.
- In a stand mixing bowl, combine the 3 1/2 cups of flour, 3 tablespoons of parsley, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the warmed milk, egg, and garlic butter. Knead on low speed for about 10-12 minutes until smooth and tacky.
- Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place in the prepared pan, leaving space between them.
- Cover the rolls with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Brush the tops of the rolls with beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the garlic butter by melting 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in 1 tablespoon of parsley.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, brush them with the garlic butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!