5 days ago4 min read

Garlic Rolls: The Buttery, Fluffy, and Irresistible Side Dish You Need

Updated: 4 days ago

Few things in life are as satisfying as warm, buttery garlic rolls fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty pasta dinner, as part of a holiday spread, or as a snack, these rolls are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. With a perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough and rich, garlicky flavor, this recipe is easy to make and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Quality Taste: Perfectly fluffy rolls with a bold garlic butter topping.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Versatile: Pairs with soups, salads, pasta, and more.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 egg

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
½ tsp salt
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

How to Make Garlic Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet or in a round cake pan.
Cover and let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Add the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
Brush the garlic butter over the hot rolls as soon as they come out of the oven.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Serving Suggestions

With Pasta: Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or Alfredo for a classic pairing.
With Soup: Perfect with tomato soup, minestrone, or creamy chowder.
As a Snack: Enjoy on their own or with marinara dipping sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of soft, fluffy rolls and rich garlic butter creates a side dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. The yeast-based dough ensures the rolls are light and airy, while the garlic butter topping adds a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s an easy recipe that yields professional-quality results.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?A: Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?A: Absolutely! Use the same amount and skip the activation step. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Q: How do I store leftover garlic rolls?A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze garlic rolls?A: Yes! Freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.

Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?A: Yes, substitute ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic in the butter topping.

Conclusion

Garlic Rolls are a timeless side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these rolls are sure to elevate your dining experience. Try this recipe today and discover why these buttery, garlicky rolls are an absolute must-have at your table!