Garlic-Swirl Dinner Rolls are the ultimate savory addition to any meal. Swirled with rich garlic butter and herbs, then baked until golden and fluffy, these soft rolls deliver bold flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a holiday side, a brunch offering, or a comforting accompaniment to soup or pasta, they’re a guaranteed hit—especially warm from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These rolls offer a beautiful blend of texture and flavor—pillowy soft on the inside, golden on top, and filled with aromatic garlic butter throughout. The swirl shape gives them a charming, pull-apart appeal, and they’re easily customizable with cheese or fresh herbs. Despite their impressive appearance, they’re surprisingly simple to make and perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.

Ingredients

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

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm milk (110°F)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Extra chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Stir in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Make the Garlic Filling:
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
Shape the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a large rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
Spread the garlic butter evenly across the surface.
Roll up tightly from the long edge and slice into 12 equal pieces.
Second Rise:
Arrange the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined round baking pan, leaving a little space between them.
Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, sprinkle the tops of the rolls with Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Finish and Serve:
Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 275 kcal

Variations

Cheesy Rolls: Add shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar inside with the garlic filling.
Herb Blend: Use a mix of fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives in place of parsley.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
Sweet-Savory Combo: Add a touch of honey to the garlic butter for subtle sweetness.
Mini Rolls: Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized party rolls.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave briefly before serving.
Freezing: Freeze baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the day before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Bring to room temperature before shaping.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use the same amount of instant yeast and skip the proofing step—just mix it in with the dry ingredients.

What’s the best way to mince garlic?

Use a garlic press for even distribution or finely mince by hand.

Can I use pre-made dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza or bread dough can be used in a pinch, though homemade gives the best flavor and texture.

What kind of pan should I use?

A 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan works well, but a rectangular baking dish also works.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, substitute with about 1–1½ teaspoons of garlic powder, though fresh garlic gives a richer flavor.

Do I have to use parsley?

No, feel free to use other herbs like basil, oregano, or chives, or leave it out entirely.

How can I keep the rolls soft?

Cover with foil if browning too quickly in the oven, and store in an airtight container to retain softness.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk. Replace eggs with a flax egg or skip them for a slightly denser dough.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan or two standard-sized pans.

Conclusion

Garlic-Swirl Dinner Rolls are an irresistible, savory side that elevate any meal. Their tender, buttery layers filled with garlicky goodness make them a standout at the table—whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or enjoying a weeknight dinner. Easy to customize and perfect for making ahead, these rolls are a must-have recipe for every home baker.

Garlic-Swirl Dinner Rolls

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Garlic-Swirl Dinner Rolls are soft, buttery, and bursting with garlicky flavor — the perfect savory side for dinner, brunch, or special gatherings. Rolled with a garlic-herb filling and optionally topped with Parmesan, they’re irresistible from the first fluffy bite.

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Mix in melted butter, eggs, and salt. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled.
While rising, mix the filling: softened butter, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Punch down dough and roll out into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick. Spread the garlic mixture evenly over the surface.
Roll up from the long side and cut into 12 even pieces. Place in a greased or parchment-lined round baking pan.
Cover and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle with Parmesan, if using.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Garnish with extra parsley before serving.