Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect blend of softness and rich garlic flavor. These homemade rolls are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for various occasions, including family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a delicious side for your favorite pasta dishes. The standout quality of these rolls lies in their irresistible garlic herb butter topping that makes them truly unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed experience: Each roll is infused with fresh garlic and herbs, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Simple preparation: The dough comes together quickly and easily, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack—perfect for any occasion!
• Perfectly fluffy texture: These rolls are light and airy, providing the perfect contrast to savory meals.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and bake when ready to serve for ultimate convenience.

Tools and Preparation

To create your scrumptious garlic bread rolls, you’ll need some essential tools. Gather these items before getting started to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool makes kneading the dough effortless while achieving the perfect texture.
• 9×13 baking pan: Ideal for shaping and baking your rolls evenly without them becoming overcrowded.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your rolls rise perfectly every time.

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 the Topping

• 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 Mixture

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixing bowl, combine the flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt. Then add the warmed milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter mixture.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead on low speed with the dough hook until smooth and soft yet tacky (about 10-12 minutes). If too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until manageable.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (approximately 67 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pinching at the bottom seam. Place them in the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel; let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1-2 hours).

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Add Garlic Butter Topping

While baking, prepare garlic butter by melting more butter in a pot with minced garlic for another minute. Stir in parsley once removed from heat. Brush freshly baked rolls immediately with this mixture and sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair these rolls with your favorite pasta dishes for a classic Italian meal.
• Serve alongside soups or stews to soak up the delicious broth.

With Dips

• Try them with marinara sauce for a tasty appetizer.
• Serve with a creamy spinach dip for a flavorful twist.

At Barbecues

• Enjoy them at outdoor gatherings as a complement to grilled meats.
• Use them to make mini sandwiches filled with turkey or beef.

Brunch Treats

• Serve warm garlic bread rolls at brunch with scrambled eggs or omelets.
• Add a touch of honey or jam for a sweet contrast.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls

To ensure your garlic bread rolls turn out perfectly fluffy and flavorful, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs to elevate the flavor of your rolls.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and slightly tacky, which contributes to the fluffy texture.
• Let It Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in size for the best results.
• Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on brushing the rolls with garlic butter after baking; this enhances both flavor and moisture.
• Serve Warm: Garlic bread rolls are best served warm, so enjoy them fresh out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls can be paired with many side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp salad topped with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Creamy Potato Soup: This comforting soup pairs wonderfully, allowing you to dip and savor every bite.
4. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned with herbs makes a hearty main dish alongside the rolls.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains or beans provide variety and nutrition on your plate.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy, this dip is perfect for scooping up with your warm garlic rolls.
7. Broccoli Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and balances out the richness of the bread rolls.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the buttery goodness of garlic bread rolls nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making garlic bread rolls can be easy, but there are common errors to watch for.

• Using cold ingredients – Cold milk or eggs can slow down the yeast activation. Always use warmed milk and room temperature eggs for best results.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Using too much flour can lead to dense rolls. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measuring.
• Skipping the rise time – Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for fluffy rolls. Be patient and ensure it doubles in size before baking.
• Overbaking the rolls – Baking them too long will dry them out. Keep an eye on them, aiming for a golden brown top.
• Forgetting the garlic butter topping – This crucial step adds flavor. Don’t skip brushing the rolls with garlic butter right after baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover garlic bread rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls

• Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per roll, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Warm in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about garlic bread rolls that may help you.

What are Garlic Bread Rolls?

Garlic bread rolls are soft, fluffy dinner rolls infused with fresh garlic and brushed with garlic herb butter after baking.

Can I customize my Garlic Bread Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add cheese, herbs, or spices to enhance flavor. Experiment with different types of butter or oils as well.

How do I know when my Garlic Bread Rolls are done?

Look for a golden-brown color on top and a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but this may change the texture slightly.

How should I store my Garlic Bread Rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These garlic bread rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any meal. They’re perfect as an appetizer or side dish and can easily be customized with your favorite herbs or toppings. Try making them today!