There is something utterly irresistible about warm, fluffy rolls that are slathered in rich garlic butter and sprinkled with sharp Parmesan cheese. This Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls Recipe is exactly that perfect combination of comforting, savory, and cheesy goodness that you will want to make again and again. With a soft dough enriched by butter and eggs, roasted garlic that melts into silky spread, and a gooey mozzarella center, these rolls are the kind of treat that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your heart with joy. Whether you’re serving up a weekend brunch or adding a special touch to your dinner table, these rolls bring an effortless elegance and bursting flavor that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A flat circle of light beige dough spread on a white marbled surface forms the base layer. Over it is a thin, creamy layer with small bits, unevenly spread across the dough. On top of this creamy layer are scattered pieces of green leafy herbs, roughly chopped, covering the dough from edge to edge. The final top layer consists of uneven strips and small chunks of white shredded cheese spread generously over the herbs. The whole scene shows slight texture contrasts between the soft dough, creamy spread, fresh herbs, and shredded cheese. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls Recipe lies in its use of simple, straightforward ingredients that each play an important role. From the warmth of the milk activating the yeast, to the creamy richness of melted butter, and the fresh punch of parsley, these components come together to create layers of flavor and lovely textures.

Whole milk (1/2 cup, lightly warmed): Activates the yeast and gives the dough softness and moisture.
Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Feeds the yeast for a perfect rise and adds a subtle sweetness.
Active dry yeast (1 envelope or 2 1/4 teaspoons): The key leavening agent that makes the rolls fluffy and tender.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons melted, plus extra): Adds richness to the dough and luscious flavor in the filling and topping.
Egg and egg yolk (1 large each, room temperature): Enhance the dough’s texture and provide a beautiful golden color.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The sturdy base of the dough, giving structure while remaining soft.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon, plus extra to taste): Balances sweetness and amplifies all the savory components.
Heads of garlic (4, tops cut off): Roasted until tender and sweet, they form the aromatic heart of the filling.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Coats the garlic bulbs for roasting, helping deepen their flavor.
Softened butter (4 tablespoons): Mixed with roasted garlic and parsley for the luscious filling.
Chopped parsley (1/4 cup): Adds freshness and a burst of vibrant green color.
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups, preferably thick-cut): Melts beautifully inside the rolls for a cheesy surprise.
Butter (2 tablespoons melted): Combined with garlic and parmesan to brush on the rolls after baking.
Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon) and freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1 tablespoon, plus more for garnish): Finish the rolls with bright, flavorful topping.
Minced garlic (1-2 teaspoons): Boosts the garlic flavor in the topping for that perfect savory punch.

How to Make Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activating the Yeast and Preparing the Dough

Start by warming the milk to about 110°F so it’s pleasantly warm to the touch but not hot. This is crucial for waking up that yeast, giving it the perfect environment to begin bubbling with life. In your mixer bowl, combine the warmed milk, sugar, and yeast—let the magic happen as you wait for the mixture to become bubbly and fragrant, about 7 to 10 minutes. This signals that your yeast is properly activated and ready to make your rolls delightfully light and fluffy.

Step 2: Mixing and Kneading the Dough

Once the yeast is bubbly, add the melted butter, egg, egg yolk, flour, and salt to the bowl. Switch on your stand mixer with the dough hook and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until you have a smooth dough that pulls away from the bowl. If you notice it’s too sticky, sprinkle in just a little more flour. If you don’t have a mixer, fret not—knead by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes. This step ensures your dough develops the right gluten tension for that soft but structured bite.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape the dough into a tight ball and place it in a greased large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel and leave it somewhere warm. Patience is rewarded here: wait until it doubles in size, which usually takes 1 to 2 hours. This slow rise allows the flavors to deepen, and the dough becomes airy and light—an essential foundation for the rolls’ heavenly texture.

Step 4: Roasting the Garlic

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare your garlic heads by trimming their tops and discarding the loose skins, then drizzle olive oil over them in a foil-lined baking dish. Cover loosely with foil and roast for 30 to 40 minutes until the cloves are soft, caramelized, and fragrant. This step transforms harsh raw garlic into a sweet, mellow paste that’s the soul of your rolls’ irresistible filling.

Step 5: Shaping the Dough and Preparing the Filling

After your dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 13 by 8-inch rectangle. Blend your roasted garlic cloves into a silky paste and then smear softened butter all over the dough. Spread the garlic paste on top, sprinkle with chopped parsley and seasoning, and finally scatter the shredded mozzarella evenly over everything. Each ingredient layering adds to the rich complexity and ooey-gooey texture that makes these rolls unforgettable.

Step 6: Rolling and Cutting

Carefully roll the dough up like a jelly roll along the long edge, sealing the seam well to keep your filling intact. To get evenly sized rolls, slice the log into 9 pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for a clean cut. These individual rolls will bake into soft, cheese-filled pillows that everyone will fight over.

Step 7: Second Rise and Baking

Arrange the rolls snugly in a parchment-lined 9×9 baking dish, cover them again, and let them rise for another 1 to 2 hours until fluffy and puffy. Then bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown. During baking, the mozzarella melts perfectly into the tender dough while the crust forms just the right amount of chew and crispness.

Step 8: Adding the Garlic Butter Parmesan Topping

While the rolls bake, prepare a tantalizing topping by mixing melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, and parmesan. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with this aromatic mixture, then sprinkle with extra parmesan for an elegant finish. Serve them warm for that irresistible melty-cheesy and buttery experience.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls Recipe

Several small, round rolls made from light yellow dough form the base layer. Inside these rolls, there are multiple thin layers of creamy beige filling that is spread evenly, with small green herb leaves and white slivers scattered throughout. The texture looks soft and moist, with the rolls cut to show the spiral shape of the layers. They are placed close together on a surface with a soft tan color and slight texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls Recipe truly pop, consider garnishing with extra freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of bright green parsley. These simple touches not only add a burst of color but intensify that delicious umami and herbaceous flavor that makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

These rolls work beautifully alongside anything from a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, creamy tomato soup, to a hearty Italian pasta. Their richness and cheesy garlic punch perfectly balance out lighter or tomato-forward dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these rolls on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of extra garlic butter, marinara sauce, or even a balsamic glaze for dipping. You can also pop a skewer with fresh herbs into each roll for an elegant party presentation, turning a humble roll into a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls keep beautifully at room temperature wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to two days. To keep them soft, avoid refrigeration if you plan to eat them quickly.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after the second rise by wrapping the baking dish tightly in plastic and foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh, or freeze baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To bring leftover rolls back to life, reheat gently in the oven at 325°F for 10 to 15 minutes wrapped in foil, or microwave them for 20 to 30 seconds, brushing with a little extra butter to keep them moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! If you’re using instant yeast, there’s no need to proof it with warm milk and sugar. Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients and proceed. It can save some time and still gives excellent results.

Do I have to roast the garlic, or can I use raw garlic?

Roasting the garlic is key to mellowing its sharpness and bringing out a sweet, buttery flavor that’s essential to this recipe. Raw garlic would be overpowering and harsh in the rolls.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

You can try substituting a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but keep in mind the dough’s texture and rise might be different. Adding xanthan gum and following the blend’s instructions usually works best.

What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella is ideal for its melting qualities, but feel free to experiment with asiago, fontina, or provolone to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.

Is it necessary to let the rolls rise twice?

Yes, the two rises create a lighter, softer bread with better texture. Skipping the second rise will result in denser rolls that won’t be as fluffy and tender.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Garlic Butter Parmesan Rolls Recipe, it will become a staple in your baking repertoire. The combination of soft dough, roasted garlic, melted cheese, and buttery parmesan topping delivers mouthwatering flavors that cozy up any meal or celebration. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your kitchen with heavenly aromas and your family with smiles. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll know why this recipe is an all-time favorite!