Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are a delightful twist on classic garlic bread, featuring soft, fluffy dough rolled up with melted cheese, garlic butter, and herbs. These rolls are perfect as an appetizer with marinara sauce or as a side dish for pasta, soups, and salads. With a golden, buttery exterior and gooey cheese inside, they are an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Cheesy – Mozzarella and Parmesan create a perfect gooey texture.
- Garlic Butter Perfection – A rich, garlicky flavor enhances every bite.
- Soft and Fluffy Dough – Homemade dough makes these rollups extra delicious.
- Great for Sharing – Makes 12 servings, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
- Pairs Well with Many Dishes – Serve with marinara sauce, pasta, or soup.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough
- 5 cups flour (*see note below)
- 4 teaspoons yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 cups warm water
For the Garlic Butter
- 7 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Filling
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)
- Sea salt flakes, for garnish
Directions
Making the Dough
- Activate the Yeast – In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough – Add flour and salt, then mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise – Cover the dough and let it rest for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Assembling the Rollups
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Roll Out the Dough – On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter – Mix melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, garlic salt, and parsley.
- Spread the Garlic Butter – Evenly brush over the rolled-out dough.
- Add Cheese – Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Roll It Up – Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Slice into Rolls – Cut into 12 even pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake – Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle sea salt flakes. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve – Let cool slightly and serve warm with marinara sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for extra heat.
- Different Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a new flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or oregano for a more aromatic taste.
- Stuffed Version: Add pepperoni slices or cooked bacon before rolling for a heartier version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust liquid as needed.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can use pizza dough for a quicker version of this recipe.
How do I prevent the rolls from becoming too dense?
Make sure to let the dough rise properly before baking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
What dipping sauces go well with these rollups?
Marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter are great options.
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, but add an extra pinch of salt to the garlic butter mixture.
Can I make this recipe without yeast?
Yes, substitute with self-rising flour and skip the rise time, though texture may differ.
What is the best way to get a golden brown crust?
Brushing with extra butter before baking helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
Can I make these in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, a cast iron skillet will give them a slightly crispier bottom.
How do I keep the rolls soft?
Cover with foil while baking if they start browning too quickly.
Can I add extra toppings?
Yes, cooked sausage, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes would all be great additions.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional garlic bread, combining gooey cheese, buttery garlic, and soft, fluffy dough. Perfect for dipping, sharing, and pairing with your favorite meals, these rollups are a must-try for any cheese and bread lover. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Print
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rise time)
- Yield: 12 rollups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are a fun twist on classic garlic breadsticks—rolled up like cinnamon rolls and packed with buttery, garlicky, cheesy goodness! Perfect as an appetizer with marinara sauce or as a side to your favorite pasta dish. Soft, fluffy, and loaded with mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh garlic, these homemade rollups are irresistible and easy to make!
Ingredients
Produce
- 7 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Baking & Spices
- 5 cups flour (see note)
- Garlic salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp salt
- Sea salt flakes, for garnish
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 4 tsp yeast
Dairy
- 6 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 oz parmesan cheese, grated
Liquids
- 2 cups warm water
Instructions
- Prepare the dough:
- In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour and salt, then mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the garlic butter filling:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and fresh parsley.
- Assemble the rollups:
- Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Roll and cut:
- Roll the dough tightly, like a cinnamon roll, then slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 15-20 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Finish and serve:
- Brush with extra melted butter, sprinkle with sea salt flakes, and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping!
Notes
- Flour substitution: Use bread flour for a chewier texture or all-purpose flour for a softer roll.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
