Garlic Bread Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a warm, buttery garlic flavor that will make your dining experience feel extra special. These rolls are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Why make this recipe

These Garlic Bread Rolls are a fantastic way to elevate any dinner. They are soft, fluffy, and infused with garlic, making them the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, and salads. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a comforting side dish for your family, these rolls are sure to impress.

Ingredients

4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons minced garlic
3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup whole or 2% milk (warmed to 110°F)
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 beaten egg (for brushing the tops)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for garlic butter)
1 tablespoon minced garlic (for garlic butter)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garlic butter)
Flaky sea salt (for finishing)

How to make it

Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.
In a small pot, melt 4 1/2 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant. Take off the heat and cool while you measure the other ingredients.
In a stand mixing bowl, combine the flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt.
Add the warmed milk, egg, and the garlic butter mixture to the dry ingredients.
Knead on low speed with the dough hook until the dough looks smooth and feels soft and tacky, about 10-12 minutes. *If the dough is too sticky, add one tablespoon of flour at a time until you have a workable dough.
Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (use a scale for accuracy- 67 grams each).
Shape each piece of dough into a smooth ball with your hand, pinching the bottom of the roll where the seam comes together to keep it tight.
Place the shaped dough balls into the prepared baking pan. Cover the top with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and set them in a warm place to rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C.
Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash.
Bake the dinner rolls for 20-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, make the garlic butter by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a pot and adding the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, then remove from heat and stir in the parsley.
When the rolls come out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm!

How to serve it

These Garlic Bread Rolls are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them straight from the oven alongside a bowl of soup, as a side with pasta, or even as a flavorful snack on their own.

How to store it

If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!

Helpful tips

Ensure your milk is warmed to 110°F to activate the yeast properly.
For the best texture, knead the dough thoroughly until it feels soft and pliable.
Let the rolls rise in a warm area for the best results; a powered-off oven with the light on works great.

Optional variations

You can add shredded cheese inside the rolls before baking for a cheesy garlic version.
Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to add a unique twist to your rolls.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can. However, you’ll need to dissolve it in warm milk for a few minutes before adding it to the dough mixture.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and activated properly. If your kitchen is too cold, find a warmer spot for the dough to proof.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, shape it into rolls, and then refrigerate them overnight. Just let them come to room temperature before baking.