Cheesy Garlic Rolls – Soft, Buttery, and Bursting with Flavor

If you’re dreaming of the ultimate side dish that’s soft, fluffy, and smothered in buttery garlic and melty cheese, look no further than these Cheesy Garlic Rolls. Whether you’re pairing them with pasta, soup, or serving them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these rolls deliver rich, savory flavor in every bite. They’re easy enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to steal the show at any holiday table.

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The Irresistible Magic of Cheesy Garlic Rolls

Garlic rolls are a spin-off of the classic garlic bread—but better. Why? Because they’re pillowy-soft, brushed with garlic butter, and packed with gooey cheese throughout. Inspired by pizzeria-style garlic knots and dinner rolls, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the tender texture of homemade rolls and the bold, savory flavor of cheese and garlic.

They’re made from a rich, buttery dough, shaped into spirals or balls, and baked until golden. Add in the sharp bite of Parmesan, the stretch of mozzarella, and the aroma of freshly minced garlic, and you’ve got something seriously irresistible.

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Ingredient Breakdown – What You’ll Need

All-Purpose Flour (3½ cups)

The base of the dough. Provides structure and chew. You can substitute half with bread flour for a chewier roll.

Instant Yeast (2¼ tsp)

Helps the dough rise quickly and reliably. Use instant or rapid-rise yeast for best results.

Warm Milk (1 cup, around 110°F)

Activates the yeast and makes the dough soft and rich. Milk also enhances flavor and browning.

Sugar (2 tbsp)

Feeds the yeast and gives a hint of sweetness to balance the garlic and cheese.

Salt (1 tsp)

Essential for flavor. Without salt, the dough would taste flat.

Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp, softened)

Adds richness to the dough and helps create a tender texture.

Eggs (1 large)

Contributes to the softness and structure of the dough.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced)

Fresh garlic is the star of the garlic butter. It infuses the rolls with deep, savory flavor.

Mozzarella Cheese (1½ cups, shredded)

Melts beautifully and creates gooey cheese pockets inside the rolls.

Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)

Adds a salty, nutty depth and helps brown the tops of the rolls.

Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)

Optional but adds a bright, fresh finish to the garlic butter topping.

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Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Cheesy Garlic Rolls

These rolls are made from scratch with a soft yeast dough, but don’t worry—they’re beginner-friendly and totally worth the effort.

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl (or stand mixer), combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Add in softened butter, egg, salt, and 3 cups of flour.

3. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Add remaining flour a little at a time until dough pulls away from the bowl.

4. Knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or dough hook) until smooth and elastic.

5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make Garlic Butter

• In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter.

• Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes over low heat until fragrant but not browned.

• Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.

2. Flatten each piece into a small circle.

3. Sprinkle a heaping tablespoon of mozzarella inside each round, then fold and pinch closed to seal.

4. Roll into a ball and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round pan.

Step 4: Second Rise

• Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.

Step 5: Bake and Top

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brush rolls generously with garlic butter (reserve a bit for after baking).

3. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

5. Remove from oven and brush with remaining garlic butter.

6. Let cool slightly before serving.

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Variations, Substitutions, and Pro Tips

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.

• Italian Herb Twist: Mix dried oregano or Italian seasoning into the dough or garlic butter.

• Cheese Swap: Try Fontina, provolone, or sharp cheddar in place of mozzarella.

Substitutions

• No Milk? Use warm water and add 1 extra tablespoon of butter for richness.

• Egg-Free: Omit the egg and add 2 extra tablespoons of milk. Texture will be slightly less rich.

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but note that rise and texture may vary.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overstuff: Too much cheese can leak out during baking.

• Seal tightly: Pinch the bottoms well to keep cheese sealed inside.

• Use parchment: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

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What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Rolls

These rolls are the ultimate versatile side. You can serve them warm from the oven as a snack or appetizer, or alongside your favorite meals.

Perfect Pairings:

• Spaghetti or lasagna: Classic and crowd-pleasing.

• Creamy soups: Especially tomato basil, broccoli cheddar, or chicken Alfredo soup.

• Salads: Caesar, arugula, or a simple balsamic-dressed green salad.

• Chili or stew: The rolls soak up broth beautifully.

Occasions:

• Holiday dinners: A fun alternative to traditional dinner rolls.

• Potlucks: Easy to make ahead and reheat.

• Game day: Serve with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.

• Kids’ lunches: Freeze and reheat for a cheesy surprise.

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Nutritional and Health Notes

While not low-carb or low-fat, these rolls offer a comforting balance of carbs, protein, and fat. Here’s how to modify or understand what’s in each bite:

• Protein: Thanks to cheese and egg, each roll has a little boost of protein.

• Portion control: Make smaller, bite-sized rolls for lighter servings.

• Make-ahead: Dough can be refrigerated overnight before shaping.

Lighter Alternatives:

• Use part-skim mozzarella.

• Reduce butter in the garlic topping or brush lightly.

• Swap half the flour for whole wheat for extra fiber.

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FAQ – Cheesy Garlic Rolls

1. Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes! Refrigerated pizza or dinner roll dough works in a pinch. Just divide, stuff, and proceed with the recipe.

2. Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping (before the second rise), or freeze fully baked rolls. Reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through.

3. Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes. After shaping, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temp and rise before baking.

4. Can I add herbs to the dough?

Yes! Add 1–2 tsp dried herbs (oregano, thyme, rosemary) to the flour before mixing.

5. How do I make them extra cheesy?

Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top before baking, or add a cube of cheese inside each roll.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temp for 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer.

7. What’s the best dipping sauce?

Marinara is a classic, but you can also try Alfredo, ranch, or garlic aioli for extra indulgence.

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Tasty Recipes Card

Description:
These Cheesy Garlic Rolls are soft, buttery, and filled with melty cheese and garlic flavor. Perfect as a side for pasta or soup, or served as a warm, comforting snack.

Ingredients:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2¼ tsp instant yeast

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

• 1 large egg

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 tbsp butter (for garlic butter)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions: