If you have a soft spot for anything buttery, garlicky, and downright irresistible, this Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine fluffy, golden rolls infused with rich garlic butter and fresh parsley—each bite melting in your mouth and bursting with flavor. Perfect as a cozy appetizer or a comforting side, this recipe takes simple ingredients and turns them into something spectacularly delicious. Trust me, once you try these rolls, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of nine golden brown dinner rolls arranged tightly in a 3x3 grid, each roll with a shiny, slightly glossy surface. The tops are brushed with a buttery glaze and sprinkled with small bits of minced garlic and green parsley, adding texture and color contrast over the warm, soft bread. The rolls have a smooth, round dome shape with a light crust, and the gaps between them reveal the soft, fluffy inside. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but bring so much character to the bread. Each component plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture, depth of flavor, and that inviting golden color you can’t resist.

Unsalted butter (4 1/2 tablespoons): Provides richness and helps create that tender crumb.
Minced garlic (2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon for butter): Adds the signature garlicky punch that makes these rolls unforgettable.
All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon): The base for the dough, giving structure and chewiness.
Chopped fresh parsley (3 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon for butter): Brings a fresh, herbaceous flavor and a pop of green color.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast and balances the flavors with a subtle sweetness.
Instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Ensures a beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon + flaky sea salt to finish): Enhances all the flavors and adds a delicate crunch when sprinkled on top.
Whole or 2% milk (1 cup, warmed to 110°F): Moisturizes the dough and adds richness for soft rolls.
Large eggs (1 for dough, 1 beaten for brushing): Provide structure and give the rolls a shiny, golden crust.

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

Start by gently melting the butter in a small pot and adding in the minced garlic. Cook this mixture just until the garlic is fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. This step infuses the butter with garlic’s delicious aroma, setting the tone for flavor that carries throughout the rolls. Once done, take the pot off the heat and let it cool while you pull together the other ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, fresh parsley, sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. These dry ingredients create a flavorful dough base that’s balanced with just the right touch of herbs and seasoning. Getting them combined well ensures every roll is perfectly seasoned from the inside out.

Step 3: Mix Dough and Knead

Pour in your warmed milk, the large egg, and the cooled garlic butter mixture. Using a dough hook attachment on low speed, knead everything together for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’re aiming for soft, tacky dough that holds its shape. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in flour a tablespoon at a time. This kneading step builds the gluten structure, making the rolls wonderfully chewy but light.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Once your dough is kneaded to perfection, divide it into 12 equal portions, about 67 grams each for consistency. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, pinching the seam on the bottom tightly. This creates a lovely surface texture and helps the rolls hold their shape as they rise and bake. Place them evenly spaced in a buttered 9×13 baking pan.

Step 5: First Rise

Cover your rolls with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, then set them somewhere warm to rise until doubled—about 1 to 2 hours. This slow rise develops flavor and guarantees pillowy, airy bread. Watch the dough carefully; you’ll know it’s ready when the rolls look puffed and soft to the touch.

Step 6: Preheat Oven and Apply Egg Wash

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Before baking, brush the tops with a beaten egg wash, which gives the rolls that irresistible shiny, golden-brown crust that makes them absolutely eye-catching.

Step 7: Bake and Finish with Garlic Butter

Bake the rolls for 20 to 30 minutes until they are beautifully golden on top. While the oven does its magic, make the garlic butter topping by melting more butter with minced garlic and stirring in fresh parsley. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush generously with this garlic butter. For a final touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top to add just the right hint of crunch and saltiness. Serve these warm, and watch everyone swoon!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish with twelve round dough balls arranged in a 3 by 4 grid. The dough balls are smooth and shiny, with a pale yellow color and small green herb flecks evenly spread inside them. The surface of each dough ball looks soft and slightly glossy as if brushed with an egg wash. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the warm rolls makes the flavors pop, but you can also sprinkle extra fresh parsley for color and brightness. For a decadent twist, a light drizzle of melted Parmesan adds a salty, nutty edge that’s absolutely dreamy.

Side Dishes

These garlic bread rolls are the perfect partner for soups and salads. Think creamy tomato soup, savory chicken stew, or a fresh, crisp Caesar salad. Their buttery, garlicky notes complement a wide range of flavors and offer a satisfying side to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Place these rolls in a rustic bread basket lined with a cozy kitchen towel for a charming, homey vibe. For parties, serve them as a pull-apart bread with several small bowls of flavored butters or olive oil dips on the side. You can even twist the dough with herbs or cheese before baking for fun variations!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and fresh enough to enjoy as a quick snack or alongside your next meal.

Freezing

These garlic bread rolls freeze beautifully. Once cooled completely, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, making it easy to have homemade garlic rolls ready whenever you crave them.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also warm them wrapped in foil to keep moisture locked in. For an extra garlicky boost, brush a little melted garlic butter over the rolls just before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

While fresh parsley really brightens up the rolls and adds vibrant color, you can substitute dried parsley if needed—just use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Keep in mind the flavor won’t be quite as fresh and lively.

What type of yeast is best for this recipe?

Instant yeast is ideal because it mixes directly into the flour without needing to be activated first, saving time and effort. However, if you only have active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm milk first before mixing it into the dry ingredients.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

This recipe relies on gluten development for its signature chewy and fluffy texture, so regular all-purpose flour is recommended. To make a gluten-free version, you’ll need a specialized blend and perhaps some xanthan gum, but results may differ significantly from the original.

Is there a way to make the rolls dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk warmed to the right temperature. The flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously satisfying.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

Look for a golden-brown color on top and a hollow sound when gently tapped. The internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C) if you want to be precise. Baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its soft, buttery texture and that irresistible garlic aroma, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for family dinners, holidays, or casual get-togethers. Give it a try and savor every moment of baking—and eating—these little bundles of joy!