Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are the ultimate addition to any meal. These fluffy, homemade rolls are bursting with garlic flavor, making them perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a comforting side dish. With a delightful garlic herb butter brushed on top after baking, they are sure to impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: With fresh garlic incorporated into the dough and a buttery garlic topping, these rolls are packed with taste.
• Easy to Make: Even beginner bakers can successfully create these soft rolls with simple ingredients and steps.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as an appetizer or side dish for various meals, from pasta to soups.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown tops brushed with herb butter look beautiful on any table.
• Perfect for Sharing: These rolls are great for parties or family gatherings since they serve multiple people.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best garlic bread rolls, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13)
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier and ensures a smooth texture without too much effort.
• Baking pan: A 9×13 pan provides ample space for the rolls to rise and bake evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking to achieve the desired results.

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!

Dough Ingredients

• 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)

Topping Ingredients

• 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 the 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:
1. Melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add the minced garlic.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and let cool while measuring other ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Dough Ingredients

In a stand mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add warmed milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter.
3. Knead on low speed until dough is smooth and tacky (about 10-12 minutes).
4. If too sticky, add one tablespoon of flour at a time until workable.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

1. Cut kneaded dough into 12 equal portions (about 67 grams each).
2. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pinching at the seam.
3. Place shaped balls into prepared pan.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or towel; let rise in a warm place until doubled (about 1-2 hours).

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

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

Step 7: Final Touches

While baking:
1. Prepare additional garlic butter by melting more butter in a pot with minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in parsley after removing from heat.
3. Once baked, brush warm rolls immediately with garlic butter.
4. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top if desired, then serve warm!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are a versatile addition to any meal. Their soft texture and rich garlic flavor make them perfect for complementing a variety of dishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With a Hearty Soup

• Pair these rolls with a warm bowl of tomato basil soup for a classic comfort meal.
• Enjoy them alongside minestrone soup, where the garlic flavor enhances each bite.

As a Side for Pasta

• Serve garlic bread rolls as a delightful side to spaghetti or fettuccine alfredo, soaking up the delicious sauces.
• Try them with baked ziti for an added layer of flavor that complements the cheese and herbs.

With Grilled Meats

• These rolls make an excellent accompaniment to grilled chicken or turkey, providing a satisfying contrast.
• Serve alongside lamb chops for a gourmet touch at your next barbecue or dinner party.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls

Creating the perfect garlic bread rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls turn out fluffy and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for freshly minced garlic rather than pre-minced varieties.
• Knead Thoroughly: Properly kneading the dough ensures that gluten develops, which gives the rolls their soft texture. Aim for 10-12 minutes of kneading.
• Let Them Rise: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving light and airy rolls.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are golden brown on top to avoid drying out.
• Brush with Garlic Butter: Immediately brushing the hot rolls with garlic butter after baking adds extra moisture and enhances their flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls pair beautifully with many dishes, making them perfect for any meal. Here are some fantastic side dish options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of garlic bread rolls wonderfully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and health benefits alongside the buttery rolls.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice make a hearty pairing that contrasts nicely with the softness of the rolls.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balance the richness of garlic flavors.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a fresh taste that pairs well with savory garlic bread.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad rounds out any meal, making it more filling while complementing garlic roll flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making garlic bread rolls can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the dough kneading: Failing to knead the dough properly can lead to dense rolls. Knead until the dough is smooth and soft.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can alter the texture. Always use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Ignoring rising time: If you rush the rising process, your rolls may not be fluffy. Allow them to double in size as instructed.
• Overbaking the rolls: Baking too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove when golden brown.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can slow down yeast activity. Ensure your milk is warmed and eggs are at room temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm rolls for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power, wrapped in a damp paper towel, for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about garlic bread rolls.

Can I use whole wheat flour for Garlic Bread Rolls?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition, but it may slightly change the texture.

How do I make garlic herb butter for Garlic Bread Rolls?

Simply melt butter and add minced garlic and chopped parsley. Brush this mixture over your baked rolls for extra flavor!

What should I serve with Garlic Bread Rolls?

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

Can I customize my Garlic Bread Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cheese or different herbs like oregano or thyme for varied flavors.

How long do homemade Garlic Bread Rolls last?

When stored properly, these rolls last up to 3 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Garlic bread rolls are a delicious addition to any meal. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them versatile enough to accompany various dishes. Don’t hesitate to customize them with herbs or cheese based on your preferences!