Garlic bread rolls are not your average dinner rolls. These soft and fluffy delights are infused with robust garlic flavor, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, these rolls will impress everyone at the table. The combination of fresh garlic in the dough and a luscious garlic herb butter brushed on after baking creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh garlic and herbs creates a rich taste that elevates any meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These garlic bread rolls are ideal for dinners, parties, or as a snack.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can create these delicious rolls.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or pair them with soups and salads.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or cheeses to make these rolls uniquely yours!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making garlic bread rolls, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for an enjoyable cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook attachment
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 baking pan
- Small pot
- Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool makes kneading the dough easier and ensures a consistent texture throughout.
- Dough hook attachment: Helps in mixing the ingredients well without overworking the dough by hand.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best results in baking.
Ingredients
Garlic bread rolls are soft and fluffy dinner rolls packed with garlic flavor. These homemade rolls are made with lots of fresh garlic in the dough and brushed with even more garlic herb butter after baking!
- 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
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Melt Garlic Butter
In a small pot, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool while you measure other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a stand mixing bowl, combine the flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the warmed milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter mixture to the dry ingredients.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Knead on low speed with the dough hook until smooth and soft (about 10-12 minutes). If too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until workable.
Step 6: Shape Dough Balls
Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pinching the seam at the bottom tight. Place shaped balls into prepared pan.
Step 7: Let Dough Rise
Cover with plastic wrap or towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1-2 hours).
Step 8: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Step 9: Brush Egg Wash
Brush tops of rolls with beaten egg wash before baking.
Step 10: Bake Rolls
Bake for about 20–30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 11: Make Garlic Butter Topping
While baking, melt remaining butter in a pot with minced garlic for another minute. Stir in parsley after removing from heat.
Step 12: Finish Rolls
Once baked, immediately brush hot rolls with garlic butter. Sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired before serving warm!
How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls
Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. Their soft texture and rich garlic flavor make them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious rolls.
As a Side Dish
- Pair with pasta: These rolls complement spaghetti or lasagna beautifully, soaking up the sauce.
- Serve with soup: Enjoy them alongside a warm bowl of tomato or minestrone soup for a comforting combo.
For Entertaining
- Create a garlic bread roll basket: Arrange the rolls in a wicker basket lined with a cloth for an inviting presentation at gatherings.
- Offer with dips: Serve with marinara or garlic butter for dipping to enhance the flavor experience.
At Breakfast
- Toast and spread: Slice them open, toast lightly, and spread with cream cheese or butter for a quick breakfast treat.
- Add to brunch: Include them as part of your brunch spread alongside eggs and fresh fruit.
For Snacking
- Serve warm: These rolls are perfect as a snack on their own, enjoyed fresh from the oven.
- Make mini sandwiches: Fill them with deli meats and cheeses for a delicious and easy snack option.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls
Making perfect garlic bread rolls takes some practice, but these tips will help you achieve great results every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
- Knead thoroughly: Ensure you knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic; this helps create fluffy rolls.
- Watch the rising time: Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size; this is crucial for achieving light and airy rolls.
- Brush generously: Don’t skimp on the garlic butter topping after baking; it adds essential flavor and moisture.
- Store properly: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness; they can also be frozen for later use.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls
Garlic bread rolls pair wonderfully with many dishes. Here are some excellent side dishes that complement their flavor:
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rolls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add nutrition and balance out the meal nicely.
- Creamy Mushroom Soup: The earthy flavors of mushroom soup blend well with garlic bread rolls, making for a hearty combination.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve these soft rolls alongside grilled chicken breasts marinated in herbs for a delightful meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Pair with stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and meat for an all-around satisfying dish.
- Pasta Primavera: Light pasta dishes featuring seasonal vegetables are enhanced by the addition of garlic bread rolls.
- Beef Stew: The rolls act as excellent dunkers when served next to a warm, rich beef stew, soaking up all those delicious juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making garlic bread rolls, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky, it won’t hold its shape. Add flour gradually until it feels tacky but manageable.
- Not Letting the Dough Rise: Skipping the second rise can lead to dense rolls. Always allow the dough to double in size for soft, fluffy results.
- Overbaking: Keeping an eye on baking time is crucial. Remove the rolls when they’re golden brown, not dark brown, for the best texture and flavor.
- Skipping Fresh Garlic: Using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic dulls the flavor. Always use minced fresh garlic for that robust taste.
- Rushing Cooling Time: Cutting into the rolls while they’re hot can make them gummy. Allow them to cool slightly before serving for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover garlic bread rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For best results, place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls
- Freeze unbaked or baked rolls for up to 2 months.
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in freezer bags.
Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the rolls in foil and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 15-20 second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter and toast the rolls until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about garlic bread rolls:
What makes garlic bread rolls so soft?
The combination of milk and kneading helps create a tender texture, making these rolls irresistibly soft.
Can I customize my garlic bread rolls?
Absolutely! You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor or sprinkle cheese inside before baking.
How do I ensure my yeast is active?
To check yeast activity, dissolve it in warm water with sugar. If it bubbles after 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use.
Are these garlic bread rolls suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze both unbaked and baked garlic bread rolls without losing quality.
How do I know when my garlic bread rolls are done?
The tops should be golden brown, and tapping the bottom should sound hollow when they’re fully baked.
Final Thoughts
Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors easily, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy these heavenly treats!
Garlic Bread Rolls
Garlic Bread Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any mealtime occasion. These soft and fluffy rolls are infused with fresh garlic and topped with a rich garlic herb butter that creates an irresistible flavor experience. Whether you’re serving them at dinner, as a side dish, or during a cozy gathering, these rolls will impress your family and friends. With easy-to-follow instructions, even beginner bakers can master this delightful recipe. Enjoy them warm out of the oven or as part of your favorite meals—these versatile rolls make every bite special.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 rolls
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 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
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
Instructions
- Lightly butter a 9×13 pan.
- In a small pot, melt butter with minced garlic until fragrant; let cool.
- Combine flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt in a stand mixer bowl.
- Add warmed milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter to dry ingredients.
- Knead on low speed for about 10-12 minutes until smooth.
- Cut dough into 12 equal portions; shape into balls and place in the prepared pan.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1-2 hours).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and brush rolls with beaten egg wash.
- Bake for about 20–30 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush hot rolls with melted garlic butter mixed with parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (65g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg








