Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are the ultimate side dish for any meal, offering a warm and fluffy texture infused with rich garlic flavor. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as an appetizer, these homemade rolls are a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. The combination of fresh garlic in the dough and a savory garlic herb butter brushed on top after baking sets these rolls apart from the rest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll have delicious rolls in no time.
• Flavor Packed: Each bite bursts with garlic goodness, making them irresistible.
• Versatile: These rolls complement any dish, from pasta to salads or as a snack on their own.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, these rolls are sure to impress your guests.
• Freezable: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick snacks or meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your garlic bread rolls, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with dough hook: This tool makes kneading effortless, ensuring a smooth and well-developed dough.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: Ideal for shaping and baking the rolls evenly, giving them that perfect fluffy texture.

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 Your 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 over low heat. Add in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow it to cool while measuring other ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In your stand mixing bowl, combine:
– Flour
– Parsley
– Sugar
– Yeast
– Salt

Then add:
– Warmed milk
– Egg
– Garlic butter mixture

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

Step 4: Shape Rolls

Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal pieces (about 67 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pinching at the seam. Place them into prepared baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap or towel and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 6: Brush & Bake

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

Step 7: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping

While rolls bake, melt remaining butter in a pot. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute before stirring in parsley. Once rolls are out of the oven, brush them generously 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 enhance many meals. Their rich garlic flavor makes them a perfect companion for a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy these delicious rolls.

With Soups

• Tomato Soup: The soft texture of garlic bread rolls complements the acidity of tomato soup perfectly.
• Creamy Mushroom Soup: Pairing these rolls with a rich, creamy mushroom soup creates a comforting meal.

As Part of a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Use garlic bread rolls as croutons to add crunch and flavor to your salad.
• Mixed Greens: Serve alongside mixed greens for a refreshing contrast to the warm, buttery rolls.

With Pasta Dishes

• Spaghetti Marinara: These rolls soak up the marinara sauce beautifully, making each bite even better.
• Fettuccine Alfredo: The richness of alfredo sauce pairs wonderfully with the garlic flavors in the rolls.

As an Appetizer

• Cheese Platter: Serve warm garlic bread rolls with a selection of cheeses for an inviting appetizer.
• Dips: Pair them with dips like hummus or spinach-artichoke dip for a tasty starter.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls

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

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide the best flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered options.
• Properly Knead the Dough: Knead until smooth and slightly tacky; over-kneading can lead to dense rolls.
• Let Dough Rise in a Warm Place: A warm environment helps activate yeast for better rising.
• Be Generous with Butter: Brushing melted garlic butter on top adds richness and enhances flavor after baking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking; you want them golden brown but not overcooked.
• Serve Warm: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they are still warm and fluffy.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the rolls.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a hearty side that complements the flavors of the rolls.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers add protein and make for a fulfilling meal alongside the rolls.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and spices offer vibrant flavors that work well together.
5. Minestrone Soup: Hearty Italian minestrone is perfect for dipping your garlic bread rolls into its savory broth.
6. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables served over pasta add color and nutrition next to garlic bread rolls.
7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters bring a delightful crunch that pairs nicely with soft, fluffy rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making garlic bread rolls can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can lead to subpar results.

• Using Too Much Flour: Adding excess flour can make the rolls dense and dry. Measure flour accurately by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Not Kneading Enough: Insufficient kneading may result in tough rolls. Ensure you knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10-12 minutes.
• Skipping the Rise Time: Rushing through the rising process will lead to flat rolls. Allow the dough to double in size for the best texture.
• Overbaking: Baking too long can cause dryness. Keep an eye on the rolls and remove them once they are golden brown.
• Neglecting the Garlic Butter: Forgetting to brush the rolls with garlic butter after baking will miss out on flavor. Make sure to do this step for maximum garlic goodness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about garlic bread rolls that might help you perfect your recipe.

Can I make Garlic Bread Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape it into rolls. Refrigerate overnight and let it come back to room temperature before baking.

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

The rolls should be golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I use whole wheat flour for Garlic Bread Rolls?

Absolutely! However, you may need to adjust the liquid as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture than all-purpose flour.

What can I serve with Garlic Bread Rolls?

These rolls pair perfectly with soups, salads, or as a side dish for pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

Garlic bread rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding herbs or cheeses of your choice. Try making these soft and fluffy rolls at your next gathering—they’re sure to impress!