Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic Bread Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. These soft and fluffy dinner rolls are infused with garlic flavor that makes them irresistibly delicious. Whether served as a side dish at dinner, an appetizer at gatherings, or just a tasty snack, these rolls will quickly become a favorite. Their unique qualities come from a generous amount of fresh garlic in the dough and a rich garlic herb butter brushed on top after baking—creating a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of fresh garlic and herb butter creates an intense and satisfying taste.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these rolls even if you’re new to baking.
• Versatile Use – Perfect as a side for meals, great for dipping, or simply enjoyed on their own.
• Impressive Presentation – Golden brown tops make these rolls visually appealing for any table setting.
• Perfect for Sharing – With 12 servings, they’re ideal for family gatherings or parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with dough hook
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13 baking pan
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook – Makes kneading the dough easier and more thorough, ensuring a soft texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results in baking.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills or mess.

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!

For the Dough

• 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)

For Brushing

• 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 Baking Pan

Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Make Garlic Butter

In a small pot, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool while you measure other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixing bowl, combine the flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warmed milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter. 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 4: Shape the Rolls

Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (about 67 grams each). Shape into smooth balls by pinching the seam together tightly. Place in prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap or towel; let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 6: Brush Egg Wash

Brush tops of rolls with beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Finish with Garlic Butter

While baking, prepare additional garlic butter by melting butter in a pot over low heat; add minced garlic. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in parsley before removing from heat. Once rolls are out of oven, brush immediately with garlic butter and sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired.

Serve warm!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. They make a delightful addition to any meal, offering a burst of flavor and warmth. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Soup

• Tomato Basil Soup: The rich flavors of tomato and basil create a perfect match for the buttery garlic rolls.
• Minestrone: This hearty vegetable soup pairs well with the soft texture of the rolls, making for a filling meal.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the savory dressing contrast beautifully with the fluffy rolls.
• Greek Salad: Fresh vegetables and feta cheese in this salad complement the garlic flavors delightfully.

Enjoy as an Appetizer

• Spinach Artichoke Dip: Use these rolls to scoop up creamy dip, adding a garlicky twist to every bite.
• Bruschetta: Top the rolls with fresh tomatoes and basil for an Italian-inspired starter.

Add to Main Courses

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken served alongside these rolls makes for a satisfying meal.
• Pasta Dishes: Whether it’s spaghetti or fettuccine, garlic bread rolls enhance any pasta dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls

Creating perfect garlic bread rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your rolls turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust flavor than pre-minced options.
• Knead Properly: Kneading the dough until it’s smooth ensures that gluten develops, leading to fluffy rolls.
• Warm Rising Environment: Allow the dough to rise in a warm area to encourage yeast activity for better volume.
• Don’t Rush Baking: Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaked rolls can be doughy while overbaked ones may be dry.
• Brush Generously with Butter: A generous brush of garlic butter after baking adds flavor and keeps the tops moist.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options that will enhance your meal:

1. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of garlic bread rolls.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies provide a colorful and nutritious accompaniment, adding depth to your plate.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture complements the soft texture of the rolls perfectly.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for a filling side that pairs well with garlic flavors.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted brussels sprouts add crunch and bitterness, contrasting nicely with the sweet garlic taste.
6. Cheesy Broccoli Bake: A warm, cheesy side dish that’s comforting and delicious next to garlic bread rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making garlic bread rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final result.

• Boldly skip measuring: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect dough. Always use a scale when possible to ensure consistency.
• Boldly ignore dough temperature: Using cold ingredients can slow yeast activation. Make sure your milk is warmed to 110°F for optimal results.
• Boldly under-knead the dough: Insufficient kneading leads to dense rolls. Knead until the dough is smooth and soft, about 10-12 minutes.
• Boldly rush the rising time: Patience is key. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for fluffy rolls; this usually takes 1-2 hours.
• Boldly forget about the butter brush: Brushing with garlic butter after baking adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step for ultimate taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store garlic bread rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator without losing flavor.

Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls

• Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter, and toast each roll cut-side down until warm and golden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding garlic bread rolls that might help you.

How can I make garlic bread rolls vegan?

You can substitute dairy butter with plant-based butter and use a flax egg or applesauce instead of a regular egg.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes! You can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and flavor.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Make sure your yeast is active by checking its expiration date. If it’s too old, it may not rise properly. Warmth also helps; ensure your environment isn’t too cold.

How do I customize garlic bread rolls?

Feel free to add cheese, different herbs like oregano or thyme, or even roasted garlic for extra depth of flavor!

Final Thoughts

Garlic bread rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or alongside your favorite dish, these fluffy delights are sure to impress. Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize them to your taste!