Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

There’s just something magical about pulling a batch of freshly baked Garlic Bread Rolls out of the oven—the buttery aroma fills your kitchen and suddenly, everyone in the house manages to wander over, eager to snag one. These pillowy-soft rolls are brushed with an irresistible garlic and parsley butter, making them the star of any bread basket. It’s a dish that transforms everyday dinners into memorable occasions, all with ingredients you probably already have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of pantry staples and a few fridge favorites come together to create the ultimate Garlic Bread Rolls. Each ingredient has a special role, from building that fluffy texture to packing in savory, aromatic flavor!

• Unsalted butter: Real, creamy butter is key for the rich base in both the dough and that finishing garlic butter. Be generous—it’s worth it!
• Minced garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings boldness; don’t use the jarred stuff if you can help it.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of every beautifully risen roll, giving them just the right structure for that tender, pull-apart bite.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness that makes these rolls as pretty as they are tasty.
• Granulated sugar: Just a touch wakes up the yeast and gently balances the flavors.
• Instant yeast: Fast-acting and reliable—no need to proof separately, so you save a step!
• Fine sea salt: For seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors (don’t skip it).
• Whole or 2% milk: Warmed milk introduces moisture and a hint of richness to keep the rolls ultra-soft.
• Large egg: A single egg in the dough helps bind it together and gives the rolls a golden crumb.
• Beaten egg (for brushing): Just before baking, this ensures beautifully shiny, golden tops.
• Flaky sea salt: A sprinkling at the end makes these rolls absolutely irresistible—every bite has a little crunch of salt on top!

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Grab a 9×13 pan and lightly butter both the bottom and sides—this helps the Garlic Bread Rolls release easily and adds an extra hint of richness to the crust. Set the pan aside; it’ll be ready for your dough soon!

Step 2: Infuse the Butter with Garlic

In a small pot, gently melt some butter before stirring in the minced garlic. Let it cook on low heat for about 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant but not browned. Set it aside to cool while you get going with the dry ingredients—infusing the butter early lets that garlicky flavor really shine.

Step 3: Mix and Knead the Dough

In your stand mixer bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, parsley, sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. Pour in the warmed milk, an egg, and all of that cooling garlicky butter from the last step. Using the dough hook, knead this mixture on low until a smooth, soft, bouncy dough forms—usually in 10–12 minutes. If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a tablespoon of flour at a time; you want it tacky but not gooey.

Step 4: Shape and Let Rise

Turn the dough out, then divide it into 12 equal portions (about 67 grams each, or just eyeball it). Gently roll each piece into a tight, smooth ball, pinching the bottom seam so it holds together. Arrange the dough balls in your buttered pan, then cover them loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the Garlic Bread Rolls rise in a warm, cozy spot for 1–2 hours—they should puff up to nearly double in size and look irresistibly soft.

Step 5: Preheat and Egg Wash

Heat your oven to 350 F (180 C). Right before baking, brush the tops of your risen rolls with a beaten egg. This creates that bakery-worthy, glossy, golden finish that just begs to be torn into.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the rolls into your preheated oven and bake for 20–30 minutes, until they’re deeply golden on top. Keep an eye on them! Every oven is a little different, so start checking around the 20-minute mark—you want them puffed and beautifully bronzed.

Step 7: Finish with Garlic Butter and Serve

While the rolls bake, quickly whip up the finishing touch: in a small pot, melt some more butter and add minced garlic. Let it sizzle for a minute, then remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. The moment the rolls emerge from the oven, brush them generously with this garlic-parsley butter. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt—and serve warm for maximum happiness!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garnishes

Add a little extra flair by showering the tops with more chopped fresh parsley or even a grating of Parmesan cheese. For a festive look, a hint of red chili flakes also gives your Garlic Bread Rolls a pop of color and gentle heat.

Side Dishes

These rolls are a dream team with hearty soups, saucy pastas, or anything grilled. Try them alongside creamy tomato basil soup, a buttery roast chicken, or your favorite Italian entrée—the buttery garlic flavors pair effortlessly with just about any main.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, arrange the rolls in a basket lined with a cozy cloth napkin for rustic charm. You can also slice them open and fill the centers with soft cheese or herbed butter for an eye-catching appetizer. Leftovers? Turn them into dreamy sandwich sliders for lunch the next day!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled Garlic Bread Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge to maintain their pillowy texture.

Freezing

Let the rolls cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well frozen for up to two months and are perfect for pulling out when you need a homemade treat in a hurry.

Reheating

Bring rolls back to life by warming them in a 325 F oven for 8–10 minutes, straight from the fridge or thawed from frozen. For an extra touch, brush with a bit more garlic-parsley butter after reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Garlic Bread Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can shape the rolls, cover the pan tightly, and pop it in the fridge overnight. Let them come to room temperature the next day and rise until doubled before baking as usual. That way, you can enjoy fresh, hot Garlic Bread Rolls right when you want them.

Do I have to use fresh parsley?

Fresh parsley truly makes the colors pop and brings a burst of flavor, but if you only have dried on hand, reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated. The result will still be delicious!

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it first in the warmed milk with the sugar until it’s foamy (about 5–10 minutes), then proceed with the recipe as written.

What’s the best way to keep my Garlic Bread Rolls soft?

Be sure not to over-bake the rolls, and always store them tightly covered once cool. A gentle reheat with a bit more butter helps restore their softness even days later.

How can I make these rolls vegan?

Swap the butter with a vegan alternative, use a plant-based milk, and substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture or other egg replacer. The rolls will still come out fluffy and full of garlic goodness!

Final Thoughts

If you need a reason to bake, these Garlic Bread Rolls are it! They turn any meal into an occasion and truly make you the star of the table. I hope you’ll give them a try and share them with the people you love—you might find they become your new tradition.

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