If you’ve ever wished for the perfect soft, fluffy rolls that soak up butter and melt in your mouth, then you’ll absolutely love this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe. These rolls come out golden and tender with a rich garlic butter glaze that adds an irresistible punch of flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a special family dinner or simply want to elevate your everyday meal, these homemade gems are bound to become a beloved staple on your table.

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly unforgettable. Each component plays a crucial role—from the flour that forms a soft structure, to the yeast that brings the rolls to life with a perfect rise, and the garlic butter topping that adds the signature flavor and shine.

3½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft, tender base for the rolls.
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance flavors.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the overall taste of the dough.
¾ cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and keeps the dough moist and tender.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps with dough texture.
1 large egg, room temperature: Gives the rolls structure and a golden color.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping): The base of the luscious garlic butter glaze.
2 cloves garlic, finely minced: Packs the rolls with fresh, bright garlic flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a lovely hint of freshness and color.
¼ teaspoon salt (for topping): Balances the garlic butter glaze perfectly.

How to Make Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by combining warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This foamy texture is a great sign that your yeast is alive and kicking, giving your rolls the rise and fluff they deserve.

Step 2: Mix wet ingredients

Next, stir in the melted butter, room temperature egg, and salt. These ingredients blend together to create a rich and flavorful base for your dough that will help keep the rolls soft and tender once baked.

Step 3: Form the dough

Gradually add the flour to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Then, turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten, which is essential for a light, airy texture.

Step 4: Let the dough rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and set it somewhere warm to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This rise time allows the yeast to work its magic, creating those beautiful air pockets you adore in dinner rolls.

Step 5: Shape the rolls

Punch down the risen dough to release the air, then divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball for an even bake and a picture-perfect appearance. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover again for a second rise of 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake until golden

Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes until they’re golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen at this stage will have everyone eager to take their first bite.

Step 7: Make the garlic butter topping

While the rolls bake, mix melted butter with minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is your key to infusing the rolls with that signature garlic butter flavor.

Step 8: Brush and serve

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter glaze so the flavor sinks in while they’re still warm. This final step adds that irresistible shine and savory punch to complete your Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

While this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe shines on its own, adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving can elevate the presentation and boost the flavor profile even more. A little extra garlic butter on the side for dipping is always a crowd-pleaser too!

Side Dishes

These rolls are a perfect companion for hearty soups, creamy pasta dishes, or classic holiday meals like roasted turkey or ham. Their soft texture and rich butteriness balance out robust mains beautifully and help soak up every bit of sauce or gravy on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these rolls in a warm, woven basket lined with a colorful kitchen towel for a rustic feel. Alternatively, arrange them in a pull-apart style in the baking dish to encourage sharing. You can even hollow one out slightly and fill it with creamy spinach dip for a fun appetizer twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them soft, avoid the fridge, which can dry rolls out quickly. If they start to feel a bit stale, a quick zap in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel brings back the softness.

Freezing

For longer storage, these rolls freeze beautifully. After the first rise, shape the rolls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in the freezer. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw at room temperature and allow to rise before baking as usual. This way, you can enjoy fresh rolls whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

Reheat rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to refresh their warmth and softness. For a quick fix, wrapping them in foil will keep the crust tender while warming through evenly. Don’t forget to brush on a touch more garlic butter after reheating for that freshly baked flavor!

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! You can substitute instant yeast, but since it doesn’t require proofing, mix it directly with the flour and adjust the rise times as needed. The rolls will still be wonderfully fluffy and delicious.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

While unsalted butter lets you control the salt level precisely, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand—just reduce the added salt slightly to avoid over-seasoning.

How do I make these rolls dairy-free?

You can replace the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and use vegan butter for the dough and topping. The texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be soft and flavorful.

Can I add herbs or cheese to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or even shredded cheese to the dough before the first rise can give your rolls an exciting twist while keeping the core deliciousness of this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe.

What’s the best way to get soft yet slightly crusty rolls?

Brushing the tops with melted butter right after baking locks in moisture for softness, while baking at 375°F ensures a golden, slightly crusty exterior without drying out the inside.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about a basket of freshly baked, buttery rolls, and this Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls Recipe delivers that comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, these rolls are sure to impress and bring joy to your dining table. So, grab your apron and get ready to make a batch of these cozy, garlicky delights that everyone will be talking about long after the last crumb disappears.