Name: Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons minced garlic; 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 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); 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)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

I adore warm, fluffy bread, especially when it’s infused with the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic. That’s exactly why I keep coming back to this Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe—it’s a deliciously soft, buttery roll bursting with garlic and fresh parsley, baked to golden perfection. Every bite feels like a comforting hug, making it my go-to for everything from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The ease of making these rolls, paired with their incredible flavor, is something I love sharing with friends and anyone who craves that perfect garlic bread experience in a delightful roll form.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

What I find truly irresistible about this Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe is the perfect balance of flavors it offers. The mellow richness from the butter complements the sharp, fragrant kick of fresh garlic and bright parsley, creating a taste that feels both indulgent and fresh. I love how the flaky sea salt sprinkled right before serving adds just the right hint of crunch and salinity to elevate every bite. These rolls aren’t just garlic bread—they’re soft, pillowy bites that celebrate garlic in the most comforting way possible.

Another reason I wholeheartedly recommend this recipe is how straightforward and rewarding the preparation is. Unlike some bread recipes that can feel daunting or overly technical, this one is accessible—even if you’re new to baking. The dough is forgiving but still yields that restaurant-quality texture everyone loves. Plus, the rolls are perfect for so many occasions—whether you’re joining a weekend potluck, hosting a cozy holiday meal, or just craving a delicious snack after a long day. I honestly believe once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple on your table too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows eight round dough balls with green herb pieces inside, spaced out on a beige textured surface. A woman's hand presses gently on one dough ball in the center, showing the dough’s soft texture. The dough balls are smooth and light cream in color with small green herb bits evenly spread throughout. The background is a white marbled texture, softly lit from above, highlighting the dough’s smooth and slightly bumpy surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays an essential role in making the garlic bread rolls irresistibly tasty, fluffy, and golden. The combination of fresh herbs, dairy, and pantry basics come together perfectly to deliver every bit of flavor and texture you’d hope for.

Unsalted butter: Provides rich, creamy moisture and a golden crust when baked and brushed on top.
Minced garlic: Infuses the dough and topping with the signature robust garlic flavor that defines these rolls.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough, providing structure and a tender crumb when measured precisely.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that lightens the richness of the butter and garlic.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast to help the dough rise and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Instant yeast: Powers the rise to create soft, airy rolls with a perfect crumb.
Fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the garlic.
Warm milk: Activates the yeast and tenderizes the dough for that soft texture.
Large eggs: Bind the dough and enrich the crumb with moisture and structure.
Beaten egg (for brushing): Creates a beautiful glossy finish on the roll tops.
Flaky sea salt (for finishing): Adds a delicious crunch and bursts of salty goodness in every bite.

Directions

Step 1: Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Set this aside—it’s where your rolls will rise and bake, and the butter will keep them from sticking while adding a touch of flavor.

Step 2: In a small pot over low heat, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic. Let this gently cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then remove from heat and set it aside to cool while you prepare the rest of the dough ingredients.

Step 3: In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, chopped parsley, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. Pour in the warmed milk, room temperature egg, and the cooled garlic-butter mixture. Using the dough hook attachment on low speed, knead the dough for 10 to 12 minutes until it looks smooth, soft, and slightly tacky. If your dough feels sticky, sprinkle in flour one tablespoon at a time until it becomes manageable but still soft.

Step 4: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. I like using a kitchen scale to get them just right—67 grams each. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by pinching the seam tightly underneath. Place the dough balls evenly into your prepared baking pan, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 2 hours—or until doubled in size. This step is crucial for those perfect fluffy rolls.

Step 5: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures the oven is ready to give your rolls that beautiful golden crust.

Step 6: Once risen, lightly brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash. This will give them a shiny, golden finish as they bake. Bake the rolls for 20 to 30 minutes, checking toward the end to make sure they’re nicely browned and cooked through.

Step 7: While the rolls bake, prepare the finishing garlic butter. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pot and add one tablespoon of minced garlic over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. As soon as you pull the rolls from the oven, brush this garlic butter all over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and serve these warm for the ultimate garlic bread experience!

Servings and Timing

This Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe makes 12 generous rolls, perfect for sharing or storing for future snacks. Prep time including kneading and shaping the dough takes about 30 minutes, but keep in mind the dough will need a 1 to 2-hour rise to reach the right fluffiness. Baking takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, so altogether you’re looking at about 1 hour and 50 minutes from start to finish. The resting time during the rise is essential for the rolls to develop their airy texture, so be patient—it’s worth it!

How to Serve This Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

The image shows a close-up of nine golden brown soft dinner rolls arranged in a 3x3 grid. Each roll has a shiny, slightly glossy surface with a smooth texture and is topped with small bits of finely chopped garlic and fresh green parsley scattered unevenly. The rolls are touching each other, with visible white soft dough peeking between them. The whole set sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving these rolls warm right out of the oven. They pair beautifully with a wide range of meals—think hearty pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or creamy chicken Alfredo, where their buttery garlic flavor complements and enhances every bite. For a lighter option, they’re fantastic alongside fresh salads and roasted vegetables, making your meal feel balanced yet indulgent.

For presentation, I find that simply arranging the rolls on a rustic wooden board or a lovely ceramic platter garnished with extra chopped parsley really makes them shine. You can drizzle a little more of the garlic butter on top before serving to keep them moist and flavorful. If you’re serving at a party, pairing these rolls with a bowl of marinara or basil pesto makes a great dipping experience that guests love.

When it comes to drinks, these rolls suit a variety of beverages. A glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic and herb notes wonderfully, while a cold craft beer adds a satisfying contrast. Non-alcoholic drinks like sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a lightly sweetened iced tea also pair nicely. I usually recommend serving the rolls warm or at room temperature; reheated slightly if needed, so the flavors and soft texture stay at their best.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. If you want a dairy-free or vegan alternative, swapping out the butter for a plant-based spread and using a flax or chia egg works wonderfully without sacrificing texture or flavor. The warm milk can be replaced with any plant milk as well—almond or oat milk add a subtle twist.

If you want to experiment with flavors, I sometimes mix in some grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese into the dough for a savory boost or add roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a sweeter, mellow flavor. You could also try sprinkling a little red chili flakes into the garlic butter for a spicy kick. For a different texture, baking the dough as pull-apart rolls instead of individual balls gives you a fun, shareable treat that’s perfect for game day or family-style dinners.

If time is tight, I’ve even tried making these rolls in a bread machine using the dough setting, which can save some hands-on prep time while still delivering that comforting garlic bread goodness. Whichever variation you choose, each one brings a delicious new twist to this classic recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftover garlic bread rolls keep really well when stored properly. I like placing them in an airtight container or sealing them in a zip-top plastic bag to lock in moisture. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 3 days at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, keeping them in the refrigerator can help, but bring them back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to refresh their texture.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully, which makes them excellent for meal prep or saving for later. I recommend freezing them once they have completely cooled. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them all together in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly frozen, they will keep their best quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To reheat, I find the best way is to wrap the rolls in foil and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method helps maintain their softness and allows the garlic butter flavor to refresh beautifully. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make them rubbery or dry. If you want a quick fix, use a toaster oven at medium heat wrapped in foil for similar results. Adding a tiny bit of extra garlic butter on top before reheating can revive that fresh-from-the-oven taste perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use regular active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but keep in mind you’ll need to proof it first in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough ingredients. Use about 25% more active dry yeast than instant yeast called for. It might increase the rise time slightly, but the rolls will still turn out soft and flavorful.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

This recipe calls for one main rise after shaping the dough into rolls, which is crucial for that fluffy texture. You don’t need a separate first rise; the dough is mixed and kneaded until smooth, then shaped and left to rise in the pan until doubled. This simplified method saves time and effort but still creates those beautiful, airy rolls.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! I’ve made gluten-free versions using a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour specifically designed for baking, often with xanthan gum included. The dough texture will be slightly different—usually a bit stickier—but with careful handling and maybe a few adjustments to liquid amounts, you can achieve flavorful and soft rolls with that same satisfying garlic butter finish.

What if I want a stronger garlic flavor?

If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to increase the minced garlic a bit in both the dough and the garlic butter. Roasted garlic also adds a sweeter, more mellow depth. Just be cautious about overpowering the delicate balance of herbs and butter. Fresh garlic powder can also be sprinkled on top for an extra burst if desired.

Can I prepare the dough ahead and bake later?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape the rolls, and refrigerate them overnight covered tightly with plastic wrap. The slow rise in the fridge actually develops richer flavor. Take them out about an hour before baking to allow them to come to room temperature and finish rising before baking as usual.

Conclusion

I genuinely hope you give this Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe a try because it’s one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing treats that never disappoints. From the soft texture to the flavorful garlic butter finish, every bite feels like a celebration of good food and simple pleasures. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for an easy way to wow guests, these rolls deliver warmth, flavor, and joy. Happy baking—and don’t forget to share the love with those you care about!