Name: Easy Skillet Rosemary Dinner Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 3 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup whole milk (105-110 degrees F); 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar (divided); 2 tablespoons sugar (divided); 1/3 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary (divided); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (divided); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 4 reviews

If you are craving soft, fluffy, and aromatic bread that practically melts in your mouth, you have just found your new favorite with this Easy Skillet Rosemary Dinner Rolls Recipe. These rolls combine the comforting warmth of homemade dough with the fresh, woodsy flavor of rosemary, all baked beautifully in a skillet for a golden crust. Perfectly tender on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside, these rolls transform any meal into a special occasion and will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, featuring a large clear glass bowl filled with pale beige flour on the left, two small white glass bowls with granulated sugar and salt on the right bottom, a clear glass measuring cup filled with white milk in the center-right, a single brown egg placed near the sugar, a stick of pale yellow butter close to the top center, a small yellow and red packet of dry yeast above the butter, and two fresh green rosemary sprigs lying horizontally near the egg, all set beside a black cast iron skillet at the top of the image photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating these delightful dinner rolls is surprisingly simple because each ingredient plays a vital role in building their perfect texture, flavor, and aroma. From the rich butter that keeps them moist to the fresh rosemary that gives them a fragrant finish, everything matters.

Whole milk (3/4 cup, 105-110°F): Warm milk activates the yeast gently to ensure a perfect rise.
Active dry yeast (1 1/2 teaspoons): The magic behind the fluffy texture and lovely rise of your rolls.
Sugar (2 tablespoons, divided): Adds subtle sweetness and keeps the yeast energized.
Unsalted butter (1/3 cup at room temperature + 1 tablespoon melted): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb with a glossy finish.
Fresh rosemary (2 tablespoons, divided): Delivers that delightful herby note that makes these rolls irresistible.
Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the dough perfectly.
Large egg (1, at room temperature): Adds structure and a slight richness for a tender bite.
All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups, divided): The foundation of your dough, ensuring it holds together yet remains soft.

How to Make Easy Skillet Rosemary Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by stirring the warm milk, active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar together in a small bowl. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it confirms the yeast is alive and ready to make your rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients and Some Flour

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat together the room-temperature butter, 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, salt, and the remaining 1 tablespoon sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—about 2 minutes. Then, add the egg and mix well. Pour in the yeast mixture along with 1 1/2 cups of flour and beat until a smooth batter forms, setting the stage for a soft dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough to Perfection

Switch to the dough hook attachment and gradually add the remaining 1 1/4 cups of flour, half a cup at a time. Keep going until you get a soft, smooth ball of dough that’s elastic and slightly tacky but manageable. Once formed, increase the speed to medium-high and knead for 3 minutes. This strengthens the gluten for that perfect chewy texture.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Lightly oil a large bowl or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Place your dough inside, turning it once to coat it evenly with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean dishtowel and set it in a warm spot to rise until doubled in size—this usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. Watching the dough puff up is always rewarding!

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, gently punch the dough down to release air bubbles. Roll it into a 10-inch rope, then cut into 10 equal 1-inch pieces. Press each piece into a flat disk before shaping them into smooth balls. This shaping technique encourages even baking and a soft, uniform texture inside your rolls.

Step 6: Prepare the Skillet and Proof Again

Lightly oil a 10-inch cast iron skillet or spray it with nonstick spray. Arrange the dough balls snugly in the skillet. Brush the tops generously with melted butter and sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary. Cover again with a clean towel and let the rolls rise until doubled, another 30 to 45-minute wait that’s totally worth it.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pop the skillet into the oven and bake the rolls for about 20 to 24 minutes until golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen with that irresistible blend of fresh bread and rosemary inviting you to dig in ASAP.

Step 8: Enjoy Warm

Once baked, serve the rolls warm to fully enjoy their tender crumb and buttery, herbed crust. These rolls shine best fresh but still remain delightful hours later.

How to Serve Easy Skillet Rosemary Dinner Rolls Recipe

There is a black cast iron pan filled with nine round dough balls that are light golden in color and sprinkled with small green rosemary pieces. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. To the right of the pan, there is a small clear glass bowl with yellow melted butter and a natural bristle brush with some butter on its bristles resting next to it. Fresh rosemary sprigs are placed nearby on the white marbled surface. The scene looks ready for baking photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a touch of finishing flair elevates these rolls effortlessly. Consider brushing an extra layer of melted butter right out of the oven for a glossy sheen and sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt or some additional chopped rosemary on top. These simple garnishes amp up the flavor and make your rolls look downright irresistible.

Side Dishes

These rosemary-infused dinner rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Think hearty soups like creamy tomato basil or classic chicken noodle, roasted vegetables, or even your favorite holiday meals like turkey and gravy. Their tender texture and fragrant aroma complement both casual dinners and festive feasts beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Set these rolls on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of gourmet butter mixed with honey, garlic, or herbs to create an interactive bread service. Alternatively, for a cozy gathering, stack them in a basket lined with a clean linen and serve family-style so everyone can grab a warm roll fresh from the skillet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any uneaten rolls tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness. When stored properly, they keep their freshness well enough for next-day enjoyment without losing that lovely homemade texture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these rolls at a later time, freezing works wonderfully. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them inside a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months, so you always have a batch ready for your next craving.

Reheating

To revive frozen or stored rolls, unwrap them and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, pop them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds to restore their softness quickly and gently. Either way, you’ll regain that fresh-baked deliciousness with ease.

FAQs

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

While fresh rosemary gives the most vibrant flavor and aroma, you can substitute dried rosemary if necessary. Use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated, but fresh is definitely preferred for the best results in this recipe.

Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?

A cast iron skillet is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and helps create a beautiful crust, but if you don’t have one, any oven-safe skillet or round baking pan around 10 inches will work just fine. Just make sure it’s well greased to prevent sticking.

Can I make the dough by hand instead of using an electric mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It may take a little longer to develop the gluten, so knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.

What temperature should the milk be for activating the yeast?

The milk should be warm, between 105°F and 110°F. Too hot and it can kill the yeast; too cold and the yeast won’t activate properly. Test the temperature with your finger or a kitchen thermometer for best results.

Can I add other herbs or flavors to this recipe?

Definitely! While rosemary is fantastic here, you could also try thyme, sage, or even garlic powder mixed into the dough for a delicious twist. Just be mindful of the amounts to maintain the dough’s balance.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Skillet Rosemary Dinner Rolls Recipe is a winner for anyone who loves fresh bread with a cozy, herb-infused twist and minimal fuss. Once you try making these soft, buttery rolls, you’ll understand why they’re a go-to for weeknight dinners and special celebrations alike. Grab your ingredients and that trusty skillet – your new favorite rolls are waiting!