Name: Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls
Prep time: PT-486721H19M6S
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup warm whole milk; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 4 tbsp melted unsalted butter; 1 large egg; 1 large egg yolk; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp kosher salt; 4 garlic heads, tops trimmed; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp softened butter; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1/2 tsp kosher salt + ground black pepper; 2 cups shredded mozzarella; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tbsp chopped parsley; 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (plus extra for garnish); 1–2 tsp minced garlic

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Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls are the ultimate savory twist on classic dinner rolls, packed with rich, roasted garlic, creamy butter, and nutty Parmesan cheese. If you’re looking for a mouthwatering upgrade to your bread basket, these rolls deliver every time. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re irresistibly cheesy, tender, and full of flavor. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, a casual dinner, or a cozy brunch, these Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls are bound to be a hit. Their pull-apart softness and cheesy garlic layers make them unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls

These rolls are not your average side dish. They’re buttery, fluffy, and bursting with roasted garlic and cheese in every bite. Inspired by the shape of cinnamon rolls, they add a playful, visually appealing twist to your table. The combination of soft homemade dough, roasted garlic paste, and a cheesy herb filling makes each roll an experience in itself. Plus, the topping of melted butter, parsley, Parmesan, and garlic guarantees they’ll be devoured straight from the oven.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1/2 cup warm whole milk
2 tbsp granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg, room temperature
1 large egg yolk, room temperature
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp kosher salt

For the Filling:

4 heads garlic, tops trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
1/2 tsp kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping:

2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
1-2 tsp minced garlic

Step-by-Step: How to Make Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls

Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk to about 110°F. Combine with sugar and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes until bubbly. (Skip this step if using instant yeast.)
Make the Dough: Add melted butter, egg, egg yolk, flour, and salt. Using a dough hook, knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour.
Let the Dough Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and transfer it to a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Roast the Garlic: As the dough rises, preheat your oven to 400°F. Drizzle the garlic heads with olive oil, wrap them in foil, and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender and golden. Allow to cool slightly before squeezing out the cloves.
Prepare the Filling: Blend roasted garlic into a paste. Roll dough into a 13×8-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter, then garlic paste, parsley, salt, pepper, and mozzarella.
Roll & Slice: Roll tightly from the long side. Pinch to seal. Slice into 9 equal pieces.
Second Rise: Place rolls in a parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan. Cover and let rise again for 1-2 hours until puffy.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls for 30-35 minutes until golden.
Add Topping: Mix topping ingredients. Brush over hot rolls. Add extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor when roasting.
Let dough rise fully for the fluffiest rolls.
Use thick-cut mozzarella for that extra gooey pull.
Trim ends of the roll log to ensure uniform sizing.
Bake until just golden to keep the rolls tender and soft.

Substitutions And Variations

Cheese: Swap mozzarella with provolone, gouda, or cheddar.
Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Butter: Use garlic herb butter for an extra kick.
Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy touch.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 roll)

Calories: ~280
Protein: 9g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Serving Suggestions

Pair with creamy soups: Delicious alongside a bowl of tomato bisque or potato leek soup.
Serve with pasta: These rolls make a fantastic side for spaghetti or fettuccine Alfredo.
Make it brunchy: Add a poached egg or bacon on the side.
Party snack: Cut into smaller pieces and serve with marinara dipping sauce.
Holiday table: A must-have during Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of roasting whole heads? Yes, although roasting whole garlic cloves enhances the flavor by creating a sweeter, richer depth that’s hard to replicate.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Definitely! Once the rolls are shaped, wrap them tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let them rise at room temperature before baking.

Do I need a stand mixer? No, you can knead by hand for 10 minutes. The dough should be soft and smooth.

Can I freeze the dough? Yes, shaped rolls can be frozen before the second rise. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge, then allow them to rise and bake as instructed.

What’s the best cheese to use? Mozzarella is classic for its melty goodness, but feel free to mix in some sharp cheddar or fontina for added flavor.

Conclusion

Thank you for joining me in baking these incredible Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls! I truly love how this recipe transforms a simple roll into something memorable and flavor-packed. With roasted garlic, buttery softness, and cheesy richness, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do. Happy baking, and thank you for being a part of this delicious journey. Wishing you joy and success in your kitchen adventures!

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