Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

The Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are a delightful treat that will elevate any meal. These soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or just to enjoy with your favorite soup. Their rich garlic butter flavor and pillowy texture make them a standout side dish. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply looking for a comforting addition to your weeknight dinner, these rolls won’t disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Pillowy Soft Texture: Each roll is incredibly soft and fluffy, making them irresistible.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for any occasion—be it Thanksgiving, Christmas, or casual dinners.
• Rich Flavor: Infused with garlic and butter, they add a burst of flavor to your meal.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Ideal for Sharing: Bake a batch of 12 rolls to share with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools help streamline the process and ensure that your rolls come out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pastry brush
• Clean surface for kneading
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Pastry brush: Helps you apply the egg wash evenly for a golden finish on the rolls.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even baking of your rolls when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

The best, pillowy soft and fluffy homemade garlic butter dinner rolls

Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk (240g), warm (around 110F)
– 3 teaspoons active dry yeast or instant yeast
– 1/3 cup sugar (70g)
– 3 3/4 cup all purpose flour (490g)
– 1 large egg
– 1.5 teaspoon salt
– 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened at room temperature (85g)
– Egg wash: 1 egg yolk and 1 tbsp milk
– 1/4 cup salted butter (57g)
– 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
– 1-2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Step 1: Combine Milk and Yeast

In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk with the yeast until well mixed.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add all the other ingredients for the dinner rolls into the same bowl.

Step 3: Mix Until Shaggy Dough Forms

Stir together the mixture until it forms a shaggy dough.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn out the dough onto a clean surface. Knead using a push-pull motion with your palms for about 15 minutes. The dough may be sticky at first but will become smooth as you continue kneading. You know it’s ready when it passes the window-pane test.

Step 5: Let Dough Rise

Place the dough in a large clean bowl sprayed with oil. Cover it with cling wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—this should take around 90 minutes.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a clean surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a tight ball ensuring there are no wrinkles or cracks.

Step 7: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a 9×13 baking sheet with parchment paper and place your shaped rolls on it with adequate space between each one.

Step 8: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with milk to create an egg wash. Brush this generously over each roll using your pastry brush.

Step 9: Second Rise

Allow the rolls to rise again in a warm spot for about 30-45 minutes until they appear puffy.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

During the last 20 minutes of rising time, preheat your oven to 350F (conventional).

Step 11: Final Egg Wash

After rising, brush another generous layer of egg wash on top of each roll before baking.

Step 12: Bake Rolls

Bake in preheated oven for about 20-22 minutes until they have developed a beautiful shiny golden crust.

Step 13: Make Garlic Butter

While they bake, melt the salted butter in a saucepan. Add finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes before turning off heat and mixing in parsley.

Step 14: Brush Garlic Butter

Once baked, immediately brush each roll with your garlicky butter while they’re still hot from the oven.

Step 15: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve these delicious Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls warm as part of your meal!

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

With Soup

• Pair your dinner rolls with a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal. They are perfect for soaking up rich broths.

As a Side for Pasta

• Serve these rolls alongside pasta dishes. Their buttery flavor complements tomato-based or creamy sauces beautifully.

At a Family Gathering

• These rolls make an excellent choice for gatherings. Their fluffy texture and garlic aroma will impress your guests.

With Salads

• Enjoy the rolls with fresh salads. The garlic butter adds an extra layer of flavor, making them a satisfying companion to crisp greens.

For Breakfast

• Try them warm with a bit of jam or honey in the morning. They can be a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea.

How to Perfect Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Perfecting Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out fluffy and delicious every time.

• Use Warm Milk: Ensure the milk is warm, around 110F, to activate the yeast effectively for maximum rise.
• Knead Thoroughly: Knead the dough for at least 15 minutes until it reaches a smooth and elastic consistency.
• Second Rise: Don’t skip the second rise; this allows the dough to develop more flavor and achieve that light, airy texture.
• Egg Wash: Apply an egg wash before baking for a shiny, golden crust that adds visual appeal.
• Brush with Garlic Butter Immediately: Brush the hot rolls with garlic butter straight from the oven to ensure maximum flavor absorption.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

These dinner rolls pair well with many side dishes, enhancing their taste and making your meal complete. Here are some great options:

1. Creamy Tomato Soup: A classic pairing that offers warmth and comfort on chilly days.
2. Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and tangy dressing balances perfectly with soft rolls.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For garlic lovers, this creamy side enhances the overall flavor experience.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies add nutrition and a nice contrast to the buttery rolls.
5. Grilled Chicken Salad: The lean protein complements the richness of the rolls without overpowering them.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with rice and herbs make a filling accompaniment to your dinner rolls.
7. Herb Quinoa: A light yet flavorful option that brings a nutty taste, pairing nicely with the rich garlic butter.
8. Baked Zucchini Fritters: Crispy and savory, these fritters provide an interesting texture contrast alongside soft dinner rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold milk or butter can slow down yeast activation. Always use warm (110°F) milk and softened butter for best results.
• Skipping the Kneading: Kneading develops gluten, giving rolls their structure. Don’t skip this step; knead for a full 15 minutes until smooth and stretchy.
• Not Allowing Enough Rise Time: Rushing the rising process can lead to dense rolls. Ensure your dough has at least 90 minutes to rise until doubled in size.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing rolls too close together can prevent proper browning. Space them evenly on the baking sheet for a nice golden crust.
• Ignoring the Garlic Butter: Brushing garlic butter on rolls while they’re hot adds flavor. Don’t forget this final touch; it elevates your dinner rolls significantly!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of rolls to avoid sticking.

Freezing Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

• Freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise for up to 2 months.
• Alternatively, freeze baked rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and wrap rolls in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place rolls on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and cover with a lid. Warm rolls for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel light and airy. A good test is to gently poke it; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Can I make these dinner rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking.

What can I use instead of garlic?

For a different flavor, try using finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can also experiment with cheeses for added richness.

How should I store leftover dinner rolls?

Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Feel free to customize them by adding herbs, cheeses, or spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!