Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Soft, Buttery, and Irresistibly Cheesy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy garlic rolls are one of those comfort foods that never fail to impress. Soft on the inside, lightly golden on the outside, and filled with rich garlic butter and melted cheese, these rolls are perfect for almost any occasion. I often make them as a side dish for pasta dinners, but they are just as welcome on their own as a snack or party appetizer. What I appreciate most about this recipe is its balance of simplicity and indulgence. The dough is easy to work with, the filling comes together quickly, and the result feels bakery-worthy. I tested these rolls with different cheeses, and I found that a blend of mozzarella and a sharper cheese gives the best flavor and texture. Fresh garlic and butter tie everything together, creating rolls that are fragrant, satisfying, and impossible to stop at just one.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the rolls, resulting in a soft yet stable crumb that holds the filling well.

Yeast
Yeast is responsible for the rise and light texture. Using active dry or instant yeast ensures fluffy, well-aerated rolls.

Milk
Milk enriches the dough, adding tenderness and subtle sweetness. I have tried this with warm milk, and it noticeably improves softness.

Butter
Butter adds richness to both the dough and the garlic topping. It also contributes to the rolls’ golden color.

Sugar
Sugar feeds the yeast and balances the savory flavors without making the rolls sweet.

Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and prevents the rolls from tasting flat.

Egg
Egg adds richness and helps create a tender, cohesive dough.

Garlic
Fresh garlic is essential for bold flavor. Minced finely, it distributes evenly throughout the topping.

Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating the classic stretchy cheese texture.

Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar adds sharpness and depth, balancing the mild mozzarella.

Fresh Parsley
Parsley adds freshness and a subtle herbal note to finish the rolls.

Directions

Begin by preparing the dough. Warm the milk until just lukewarm and mix it with yeast and sugar. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, salt, and flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size.

Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter mixed with minced garlic evenly over the surface. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into even pieces.

Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise again for about 20 minutes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Finish with melted butter and chopped parsley before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 rolls. Preparation time is about 25 minutes, rising time is 1 hour, and baking takes 25 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for one day or refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore softness.

Variations and Customizations

These cheesy garlic rolls are highly adaptable. You can add cooked bacon bits or finely chopped herbs for extra flavor. I tested a version with grated Parmesan on top, and it added a wonderful savory crust. For a spicier twist, mix a pinch of chili flakes into the garlic butter. If you prefer a milder roll, use only mozzarella. Whole wheat flour can replace part of the all-purpose flour for a heartier texture. Each variation keeps the rolls comforting while offering a new flavor profile.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

These rolls provide carbohydrates for energy, protein from cheese, and fats from butter. They can be adapted by reducing cheese or using low-fat dairy options.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Dough Texture
The dough should be soft, not sticky, for best results.

Cheese Distribution
Spread cheese evenly to ensure consistent melting.

Garlic Flavor
Fresh garlic delivers the most aromatic result.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate overnight and bake the next day.

Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, freeze after baking and reheat when needed.

What cheese melts best?

Mozzarella offers the best stretch.

Can I use garlic powder instead?

Fresh garlic is recommended, but powder can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep rolls soft?

Cover loosely while cooling.

Can I make them vegan?

Use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives.

Are these good for parties?

Yes, they are ideal for sharing.

Can I use bread flour?

Yes, it creates a slightly chewier texture.

What herbs pair well?

Parsley, chives, or oregano work well.

Can I make them smaller?

Yes, slice thinner rolls and adjust baking time.

Conclusion

Cheesy garlic rolls are a timeless favorite that combine soft bread, rich butter, and melted cheese into one irresistible bite. They are easy to prepare, versatile, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any table.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!