Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking for a foolproof way to elevate any meal—or just want something mouthwateringly good to snack on—look no further than these Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls. Imagine buttery, golden rolls infused with fresh garlic and parsley, warm from the oven, aromatic enough to lure everyone to the kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, these rolls are an instant crowd-pleaser that always disappear before you know it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls lies in their simplicity: every ingredient brings something crucial to the table. From the freshness of parsley to the richness of real butter, each one plays a starring role in creating perfectly soft, flavorful rolls with a delicately crisp crust and an irresistible aroma.

• Unsalted butter (4 1/2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons): Provides a rich, creamy base for both the rolls and the finishing garlic butter.
• Minced garlic (2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon): Adds that unmistakable, savory depth that makes every bite pop.
• All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon): Gives the rolls their soft, tender crumb—be sure to measure accurately for perfect texture.
• Fresh parsley (3 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon): Offers a burst of clean, bright flavor and a pop of color.
• Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast and helps the rolls brown beautifully.
• Instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The secret to a gorgeous, fluffy rise in less time.
• Fine sea salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the flavors and heightens the taste of every ingredient.
• Milk (1 cup whole or 2%): Contributes moisture and tenderness; warming activates the yeast more efficiently.
• Large egg (room temperature): Acts as a binder and enriches the dough, giving the rolls a golden hue.
• Beaten egg (for brushing tops): Creates a glossy, bakery-style finish.
• Flaky sea salt (for finishing): Adds the most delightful crunch and a finishing burst of flavor.

How to Make Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lightly buttering the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch pan. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a touch of golden crust where the rolls meet the pan. Set it aside while you work on the dough.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In a small pot, melt your butter and gently cook the minced garlic for just a minute or two. This step releases all those lovely garlic oils into the butter, infusing your rolls with flavor from the inside out. Take the pot off the heat and let it cool as you gather the other ingredients.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

In your stand mixer’s bowl, combine flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt. Pour in the warmed milk, cracked egg, and cooled garlic butter. Using the dough hook attachment, knead everything together on low speed until it forms a bright, smooth ball (about 10 to 12 minutes). If you find the dough is extra sticky, sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach a workable consistency.

Step 4: Shape and Proof the Rolls

Divide the dough into 12 even pieces (a digital scale helps if you want bakery-perfect rolls). Roll each portion into a smooth ball, pinching the seam closed beneath to help them hold their shape. Place them into your prepared pan, then cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let them sit in a cozy, warm spot to rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours—this is when the magic really happens!

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

When the rolls are nearly doubled and pillowy-soft, preheat your oven to 350 F (180 C). Getting the temperature right ensures that beautiful, even golden finish we all crave in homemade bread.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Bake

Gently brush the tops of the risen rolls with your beaten egg. This helps them bake up with a shiny, appetizing finish. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the tops are beautifully golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven.

Step 7: Make and Apply Finishing Garlic Butter

While the rolls are baking, whip up your finishing garlic butter: melt the butter, sauté the garlic for a minute, remove from heat, and stir in chopped parsley. Once the rolls come out of the oven, brush them immediately with this fragrant mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a little sparkle and crunch.

How to Serve Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls

Garnishes

For an extra flourish, try showering your rolls with more fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. This adds even more color—and, honestly, who can say no to a little Parmesan?

Side Dishes

Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls are the ultimate sidekick: they’re perfect with pastas, hearty soups, classic salads, or even next to your favorite roast. Turn a basic weeknight dinner into an Italian feast, or serve alongside a big green salad for a lighter, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, pile the rolls high in a bread basket lined with a tea towel, or arrange in a spiral on a wooden board for a rustic touch. You can even serve them as sliders, splitting the rolls and stuffing them with meatballs or roasted veggies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls should be completely cooled before wrapping tightly in foil or storing in an airtight container. They’ll stay soft and delicious at room temperature for up to two days.

Freezing

Want to plan ahead? These rolls freeze beautifully! Simply let them cool, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their magic for up to a month—just thaw as needed for instant comfort food.

Reheating

To enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, reheat rolls in a preheated 300 F oven for about 7-10 minutes, wrapped loosely in foil. If you love a crispier edge, unwrap for the last two minutes. You can also microwave them in a pinch—about 20 seconds does the trick.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes! Just dissolve active dry yeast in the warmed milk with a pinch of sugar and let it sit until it gets foamy, then proceed with the recipe as written.

Do I have to use fresh parsley, or can I substitute dried?

While fresh parsley gives the brightest color and flavor, you can certainly use dried if that’s what you have—just use about 1 tablespoon dried in place of each 3 tablespoons fresh.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Double all ingredients and use two pans, or a larger baking dish if you have one. Just make sure the rolls have room to rise and bake evenly.

Why are my rolls dense and not fluffy?

This usually happens if the dough doesn’t rise enough or if too much flour is added. Be sure to let them double in size during proofing and measure your flour properly for the fluffiest rolls.

Are Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls vegan-friendly?

As written, the recipe isn’t vegan, but you can easily adapt it by using plant-based butter, a dairy-free milk, and an egg replacer or flax egg. They’ll still bake up beautifully!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a basket of homemade Quick and Easy Garlic Bread Rolls to bring everyone together around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned bread baker or it’s your first yeast dough, you’ll be amazed at how doable—and utterly delicious—this recipe is. Go ahead, give them a try, and enjoy every warm, garlicky bite!

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