Hey y’all! If you love pillowy-soft bread with an irresistible blend of garlic and melty Parmesan, these Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls are about to steal your heart (and maybe your whole bread basket). They’re golden, fluffy, and buttery—perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or just because you need a carb hug. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This

Easy homemade rolls that taste bakery-fresh every time.
Loaded with savory garlic butter and nutty Parmesan cheese in every bite.
Makes your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly while baking.
Soft, fluffy texture thanks to simple ingredients and clear steps.
Perfect for impressing guests or spoiling your family on any occasion.

Ingredients

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp (1 standard packet) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 large egg, room temperature
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for topping)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Directions

1. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, until frothy.
Whisk in the egg, salt, and melted butter.
Gradually add the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a soft dough forms.
Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6-8 minutes (or use a stand mixer on medium speed for 5 minutes), until the dough is smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface. Add the minced garlic and Parmesan, kneading gently to incorporate.
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

4. Second Rise

Cover the pan and let rolls rise for 30-40 minutes, until puffy.

5. Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley if using.
Bake rolls for 17-20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Serve

Cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, sauté the garlic in a teaspoon of butter before adding to the dough.
If you like crispier edges, bake the rolls spaced apart on a baking sheet rather than close together.
You can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast—just skip the proofing step and mix directly with the dry ingredients.

Variations

Cheesy Herb Rolls: Add 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs to the dough.
Vegan Garlic Rolls: Substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter, and omit the egg.
Spicy Parmesan Rolls: Add 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.

Required Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook
9×13 inch baking dish
Kitchen scale or measuring cups/spoons
Plastic wrap or clean towel
Pastry brush

Storage Instructions

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve alongside hearty pasta dishes, roasted meats, or creamy soups.
Fantastic dipped in marinara or alongside a fresh salad.
Great addition to a holiday dinner spread or as a snack with butter.

Pro Tips

Make sure your milk is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast.
Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy, soft structure.
Brush baked rolls immediately with melted butter for a glistening, tender crust.

FAQ

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?: Absolutely! Shape the rolls and refrigerate overnight before the second rise. Let them rise at room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?: Yes, bread flour works well and will give the rolls an even chewier, higher rise.
Do I need to use fresh Parmesan?: While fresh Parmesan gives the best flavor, pre-grated Parmesan will also work in a pinch.

Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls

Why You’ll Love This

Ingredients