Cheesy Garlic Rolls

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these irresistible Cheesy Garlic Rolls, bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness. Soft, fluffy, and topped with a rich garlic butter, these rolls are a perfect addition to your holiday table, sure to impress family and friends. Baking them from scratch is simpler than you think, making these the ultimate comfort food for your gathering.

Amber Walsh

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-11-12T12:42:49.715Z

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked rolls wafting through your home, especially during the holidays. These Cheesy Garlic Rolls are not only delicious but also bring a delightful touch to any gathering.

Perfect for Any Gathering

Cheesy Garlic Rolls are the quintessential accompaniment for any holiday gathering. Their delightful aroma and cheesy middle make them a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve them during Thanksgiving dinner or as a side for festive parties, these rolls elevate the dining experience. Guests will appreciate the soft, fluffy texture and the rich flavor that results from the baking process. You can also serve them as a delicious appetizer, perfect for dipping into marinara or your favorite sauce.

The beauty of these rolls lies not only in their taste but in the ease of making them from scratch. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create bakery-quality rolls right in your kitchen. Your family and friends will be amazed, and the act of baking them will fill your home with warm scents of garlic and butter, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the standout features of Cheesy Garlic Rolls is their versatility. While the recipe calls for mozzarella cheese, you can easily experiment with different types such as cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for an added kick. This adaptability allows you to tailor the flavors to suit your preferences or the theme of your meal. Consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist or mixing in cooked bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.

Cheesy Garlic Rolls also pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Whether served alongside a hearty soup, roasted meats, or fresh salads, these rolls complement a range of cuisines. They can even be transformed into sliders or mini sandwiches, making them a handy option for casual get-togethers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any rolls left after your feast, storing them properly is crucial to maintaining their softness. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be stored at room temperature for a day or two. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Reheating your rolls can bring back their fresh-from-the-oven texture. You can also brush them with a little extra garlic butter before reheating to re-infuse flavor. Whether served warm with dinner or as a delightful snack, these rolls are sure to remain a favorite long after the celebration ends.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Garlic Butter

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly. Add flour, melted butter, and salt to form a dough.

Knead the Dough

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down, and knead in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Divide into 12 pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place in a greased baking dish.

Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Brush over the shaped rolls before baking.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Brush with remaining garlic butter before serving.

Enjoy warm, perhaps with some extra cheese on top!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional value of Cheesy Garlic Rolls can help you enjoy them guilt-free. One roll contains a satisfying balance of carbohydrates and protein, primarily from the flour and cheese. While they are undoubtedly a treat, you can lighten the recipe by using whole wheat flour or reducing the amount of butter. This way, you can indulge in their cheesy goodness while making your meal a bit healthier.

These rolls also provide a generous dose of calcium from the cheese, which contributes to bone health. However, it's always good to enjoy them in moderation, especially during festive occasions when other rich foods are also plentiful.

Pairing Suggestions

Cheesy Garlic Rolls can easily enhance the flavor profile of your meal, but knowing what to pair them with can take dinner to the next level. For a traditional Thanksgiving feast, serve them alongside roasted turkey and gravy or a creamy mashed potato dish. Their garlic flavor complements savory dishes, making them versatile enough to act as a delightful contrast to rich flavors.

For a more casual setting, consider serving these rolls with a warm tomato soup or a crisp garden salad. The rolls' richness perfectly balances lighter dishes, providing a satisfying bite that everyone will rave about. Creating a well-rounded plate is all about balancing flavors, and these rolls deliver irresistible texture and warmth.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

Cheesy Garlic Rolls

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these irresistible Cheesy Garlic Rolls, bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness. Soft, fluffy, and topped with a rich garlic butter, these rolls are a perfect addition to your holiday table, sure to impress family and friends. Baking them from scratch is simpler than you think, making these the ultimate comfort food for your gathering.

Prep Time20.0
Cooking Duration25.0
Overall Time45.0

Created by: Amber Walsh

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12.0

What You'll Need

For the Rolls

  1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 packet instant yeast
  3. 1/2 cup warm water
  4. 1/4 cup sugar
  5. 1/4 cup melted butter
  6. 1 teaspoon salt
  7. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Garlic Butter

  1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  2. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  3. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly. Add flour, melted butter, and salt to form a dough.

Step 02

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 03

After the dough has risen, punch it down, and knead in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Divide into 12 pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place in a greased baking dish.

Step 04

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Brush over the shaped rolls before baking.

Step 05

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Brush with remaining garlic butter before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 7g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g