Garlic bread rolls are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dinner rolls and the rich savoriness of classic garlic bread. These rolls are brushed with melted garlic butter, filled with fresh herbs, and baked until beautifully golden. They are irresistible as a side dish for pasta, soups, salads, holiday dinners, or even enjoyed alone as a warm, buttery snack.
Homemade garlic rolls have a stronger, fresher flavor than anything store-bought. They rise beautifully, stay tender inside, and deliver the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread mixed with garlic and herbs. This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect pull-apart roll every time.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 ½ cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
For Brushing Before Baking
- 1 beaten egg (egg wash)
For the Garlic Butter Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Pan
Lightly butter a 9×13 inch baking pan and set it aside.
2. Make the First Garlic Butter
Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1–2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, mix the flour, parsley, sugar, instant yeast, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the warm milk, the room-temperature egg, and the cooled garlic butter.
Knead on low speed using a dough hook for about 10–12 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth, soft, and slightly tacky.
(If kneading by hand, it may take a few minutes longer.)
If the dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
5. Shape the Rolls
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces (about 67 g each if using a scale).
Shape each piece into a smooth ball by rolling it gently under your cupped hand.
Arrange the dough balls evenly in the prepared baking pan.
6. First Rise
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
Let the rolls rise in a warm place until they double in size, about 1 to 2 hours.
7. Preheat Oven and Brush with Egg Wash
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Brush the tops of the risen rolls with the beaten egg to help them brown beautifully.
8. Bake
Bake the rolls for 20–30 minutes, until the tops turn golden brown and the rolls feel light.
9. Make the Finishing Garlic Butter
While the rolls are baking, melt the second batch of butter with the garlic for 1–2 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
10. Brush and Serve
Remove the rolls from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the warm garlic-herb butter.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy the aroma!
Tips for Success
- Measure flour correctly to avoid dense rolls. Spoon flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping.
- The dough should be soft, not dry. A slightly tacky texture gives fluffy rolls.
- Don’t skip the rise time. The rolls need to double in size before baking.
- Use fresh garlic and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- You can add ¼ cup grated parmesan for cheesy garlic rolls.
Storage and Freezing
Room Temperature
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
Freezing
Freeze rolls after baking and cooling completely. They keep well for 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for several minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Make Ahead Option
Shape the rolls and place them in the pan, then refrigerate overnight.
The next day, let them rise until doubled, then bake normally.
Why You’ll Love These Garlic Bread Rolls
- They are pillowy soft inside with a beautiful golden crust.
- The double layer of garlic butter makes the flavor rich and unforgettable.
- They are easy to prepare and perfect for beginners.
- They elevate any dinner — from pasta nights to holiday feasts.