Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a soft and fluffy texture infused with rich garlic flavor. These homemade rolls are perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a side dish. With their golden brown tops and irresistible aroma, they are sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These rolls are packed with fresh garlic and herbs that create an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these tasty rolls.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or your favorite pasta dishes.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown finish and soft texture make them a showstopper at any table.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make them ahead of time and reheat when needed; they’re just as delicious!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your garlic bread rolls, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Dough scraper
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier and ensures a smooth texture without much effort.
• Baking pan: A 9×13 pan is ideal for evenly spaced rolls that rise beautifully together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results in baking.

Ingredients

Garlic bread rolls feature simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful treat. Here’s what you will need:

For the Dough

• 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 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)

For Topping

• 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. This will help prevent sticking during baking.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Garlic Mixture

In a small pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow to cool while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixing bowl, combine the flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt. This mixture forms the base of your dough.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add warmed milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter to the dry mixture. Knead on low speed with the dough hook until smooth and tacky (about 10-12 minutes). If too sticky, add flour gradually until workable.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Cut the kneaded dough into 12 equal pieces (approximately 67 grams each). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pinching the bottom seam together tightly. Place in the prepared baking pan.

Step 6: Let Dough Rise

Cover the dough balls with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let them rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

Step 7: Preheat Oven

While waiting for the dough to rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 8: Bake the Rolls

Brush the tops of risen rolls with beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until tops are golden brown.

Step 9: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping

Melt additional butter in a pot; add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Stir in parsley after removing from heat.

Step 10: Finish & Serve

Once baked, immediately brush rolls with garlic butter topping. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls are versatile and can complement a variety of meals. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that enhance their flavor and make them a perfect addition to any table.

As a Side with Soups

• Pair garlic bread rolls with your favorite soup for a comforting meal. Their fluffy texture soaks up broth beautifully.

With Salads

• Serve garlic bread rolls alongside fresh salads. The garlicky goodness adds a lovely contrast to crisp greens and vibrant vegetables.

As an Appetizer

• Offer garlic bread rolls as an appetizer at gatherings. They are perfect for dipping in sauces or spreads, making them crowd-pleasers.

With Pasta Dishes

• Enjoy garlic bread rolls with pasta dishes, especially those with rich tomato or cream sauces. They complement the flavors while providing a delightful chewiness.

For Breakfast Sandwiches

• Use them as the base for breakfast sandwiches filled with eggs and cheese. Their garlic flavor will elevate your morning routine.

How to Perfect Garlic Bread Rolls

Achieving the perfect garlic bread rolls requires attention to detail and some helpful techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in flavor. Choose high-quality ingredients for optimal taste.
• Don’t Rush the Rising: Allow the dough ample time to rise until doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving soft, fluffy rolls.
• Monitor Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An accurate temperature ensures even baking and golden tops.
• Knead Properly: Kneading develops gluten, which gives the rolls their structure. Aim for smooth, elastic dough before shaping.
• Brush Generously with Garlic Butter: After baking, coat the rolls generously with garlic butter for added flavor and shine.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Bread Rolls

Garlic bread rolls pair well with many side dishes, creating balanced meals full of flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the rolls.
2. Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic comfort food pairs perfectly, allowing you to dip those warm rolls into rich tomato goodness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the savory rolls.
4. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons enhance the garlicky flavor of the bread rolls beautifully.
5. Grilled Chicken Breast: A simple grilled chicken breast serves as a great protein side that balances out the meal without overwhelming it.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and pair well when used to mop up any leftover sauce or juice on your plate.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans make for a hearty side that complements the softness of garlic bread rolls.
8. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry with seasonal vegetables adds freshness and crunch that contrasts nicely with soft dinner rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your milk is warmed to about 110°F. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activation and lead to dense rolls.
• Not kneading enough: Knead the dough for at least 10-12 minutes until smooth and soft. Insufficient kneading can result in tough rolls.
• Skipping the rise time: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, which typically takes 1-2 hours. Rushing this step will yield smaller rolls.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on the color of your rolls. Bake until golden brown for the best texture and flavor.
• Forgetting the finishing touches: Brush the baked rolls with garlic butter immediately after baking. This gives them a delicious, flavorful finish that enhances their appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover garlic bread rolls in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Bread Rolls

• Place completely cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Bread Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in foil and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about making garlic bread rolls. Here are some common inquiries.

What are Garlic Bread Rolls?

Garlic bread rolls are fluffy dinner rolls infused with garlic flavor that make a great side dish or appetizer.

How do I store Garlic Bread Rolls?

You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months for best freshness.

Can I customize my Garlic Bread Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or mix in cheese for extra flavor.

What should I serve with Garlic Bread Rolls?

These rolls pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or pasta dishes, making them versatile additions to any meal.

Can I make these Garlic Bread Rolls vegan?

To make vegan garlic bread rolls, substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and omit the egg wash before baking.

Final Thoughts

Garlic bread rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them irresistible. You can easily customize these rolls by adding different herbs or cheeses. Give this recipe a try; your family will love them!