Okay, picture this: soft, warm, pillowy rolls that melt in your mouth, all thanks to a generous slathering of rich, savory garlic butter. Trust me, these Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are a game-changer. They’re so good that you’ll want to make a batch just for yourself, but don’t worry—you can share them if you have to. The golden crust on the outside gives way to a light and fluffy inside, and the garlicky, buttery goodness is the kind of comfort food you’ll crave over and over again.
Whether you’re making them for a cozy dinner at home, a holiday feast, or just because you deserve a treat (and you do), these rolls will steal the spotlight. So, let’s dive in and make something that’s going to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, and your heart with joy. You’re going to love every bite!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
This recipe is all about creating those “wow” moments with flavors that are warm, comforting, and downright delicious. Let me tell you why this dish is a go-to favorite:
- Versatile: These rolls are perfect for just about any occasion. Serve them with a hearty stew, pair them with a fresh salad, or enjoy them on their own as a snack. They’re always the star of the show.
- Budget-Friendly: You don’t need a fancy ingredient list to make something spectacular. These rolls are made with basic pantry staples, making them an affordable option for everyone.
- Quick and Easy: Don’t worry if you’re a beginner in the kitchen—this recipe is simple and foolproof. A little kneading, a little rising, and you’ve got soft, buttery rolls in no time.
- Customizable: Want to kick it up a notch? Add some shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of parmesan on top. You can make them as bold or as mild as you like.
- Crowd-Pleasing: I’m talking guaranteed “seconds” from everyone at the table. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fancy gathering, these rolls are going to be a hit.

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Ingredients in Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Here’s what you’ll need for these melt-in-your-mouth rolls:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough, making these rolls light and fluffy.
- Yeast: The magic behind that soft texture. It helps the dough rise perfectly.
- Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the savory garlic butter.
- Salt: Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors.
- Milk: Adds richness and helps bring the dough together.
- Butter: Softened butter for the dough and melted butter for that glorious garlic topping.
- Egg: For that rich texture and golden color.
- Garlic: The star of the show. You’ll want to use fresh garlic here to give the rolls that irresistible flavor.
- Parsley: For a fresh pop of color and a bit of herby flavor (optional, but oh so worth it!).
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s get those rolls in the oven! Here’s how to make these garlic butter beauties:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by activating your yeast. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm milk. Stir it up and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s nice and bubbly. This is how you know your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine your flour and salt. Make a little well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, along with your egg and softened butter. Stir it all together until a dough starts to form. Once it’s together, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Then, divide it into small, even pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish. Let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and cozy in the dish.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pop the rolls in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top. You’ll want that perfect, crispy crust.
Step 6: Garlic Butter Topping
While the rolls are baking, melt your butter in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant. When the rolls are done, brush them generously with the garlic butter. Add a little fresh parsley for color if you like.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the rolls cool for a minute (if you can wait!), and then dig in. Whether you’re serving them with dinner or enjoying them straight off the pan, these garlic butter rolls will not disappoint.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
These garlic butter rolls are a versatile side that goes with just about anything. Here are a few serving suggestions to make your meal complete:
- With Stews or Soups: Pair them with a bowl of your favorite soup or a hearty stew. The rolls will soak up all the delicious broth!
- With Salad: A crisp green salad is a great contrast to the rich and buttery rolls.
- With Pasta: Serve alongside a pasta dish for a comforting meal. The garlic butter pairs beautifully with any pasta sauce!
- As a Snack: Don’t need a full meal? These rolls are perfect as a snack on their own, especially when they’re still warm.
Additional Tips
Here are a few extra tips to help you get the most out of these rolls:
- Prep Ahead: You can make the dough the night before. Just let it rise in the fridge overnight for even more flavor. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
- Flavor Variations: Add shredded cheese or sprinkle some parmesan on top before baking for an extra cheesy kick.
- Dietary Adjustments: If you need to make these rolls gluten-free, swap the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep that freshly baked texture.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute the yeast with something else?
A1: Unfortunately, yeast is key to these rolls. If you don’t have it, you could try using a self-rising flour, but the texture may differ.
Q2: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. They also freeze beautifully for up to a month!
Q4: Can I freeze the dough?
A4: Yes! You can freeze the dough after the first rise. Just shape the rolls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready, let them thaw and rise before baking.
Q5: How do I make these rolls even more garlicky?
A5: Feel free to increase the garlic in the butter topping! Add a little more garlic or use roasted garlic for a sweeter, richer flavor.
Conclusion
These Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are about to become your new favorite recipe. They’re comforting, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re serving them for a big dinner or just want a little something extra with your weeknight meal, they will always steal the show. Make sure you give them a try—your taste buds will thank you!
PrintGarlic Butter Dinner Rolls
These soft and fluffy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are the perfect side for soups, pastas, and roasted meats! Made from scratch with buttery dough, fresh garlic, and parsley, they’re golden brown and brushed with a rich garlic butter topping. These homemade dinner rolls are worth the wait!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 2-3 hours of rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 – 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (including rising times)
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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For the Dough:
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1 cup warm milk (about 110ºF)
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2 tsp active dry yeast
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1 tbsp granulated sugar
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3 ¼ cups all-purpose or bread flour (spooned and leveled)
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1 tsp salt
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 large egg (room temperature, for dough)
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1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
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Sea salt to taste
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Instructions
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Activate Yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
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Make Dough: Add flour, salt, melted butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix into a shaggy dough. Knead with a dough hook on low speed for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If sticky, add 1 tbsp flour and knead again.
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First Rise: Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 – 1½ hours until doubled in size.
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Shape Rolls: Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll into smooth balls and place in a greased 9”x13” baking pan, leaving space between.
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Second Rise: Cover with cling wrap and let rise again for 1 – 2 hours, until puffed and touching.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 350ºF. Brush rolls with egg wash and bake for 20 – 25 minutes, until golden brown.
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Make Garlic Butter: Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat, add garlic, and cook 2 minutes until fragrant (don’t brown).
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Finish Rolls: Brush warm rolls with garlic butter, sprinkle with parsley and sea salt, and serve warm.
Notes
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If the dough is sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until smooth and elastic.
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Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
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You can prepare the rolls a day ahead and refrigerate them after the second rise, then bake them the next day.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg