Garlic Cheese Filled Rolls

Soft cheesy and deeply aromatic these irresistible garlic cheese rolls disappeared within minutes the first time I made them for a weeknight dinner. From a golden crust to those gooey cheese pockets tucked inside each bite they have fast become my go to for gatherings and cozy family meals alike. They are a universal hit whether served as an appetizer or alongside hearty pastas and soups.

The first pan of these vanished so fast at my family table that now I always make a double batch. The herby butter aroma alone brings everyone to the kitchen well before dinner is served.

Ingredients

• Frozen unbaked yeast rolls: Twelve count for pillowy dough and fuss free prep look for brands with minimal additives for best flavor
• Unsalted butter: Four tablespoons melted ensures golden tops and rich flavor choose pure butter without oils
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Two tablespoons for salty sharpness freshly grate if possible for best taste
• Fresh parsley: One tablespoon finely chopped for a bright fresh finish select crisp vibrant leaves
• Dry Italian seasoning: Half a teaspoon for a fragrant herbal blend use one with oregano basil thyme and rosemary
• Medium cloves garlic: Two minced for bold aroma and depth choose firm plump cloves
• Shredded cheese: Half cup either cheddar colby jack or mozzarella for melty texture choose cheese that melts smoothly without clumping
• Colby jack cheese cubes: Thirty six half inch cubes create creamy molten centers cut from a block for even size and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Brush the bottom and sides of each cup in a standard muffin tin with melted butter to prevent sticking and add flavor. Reserve the rest of the butter for later use.

Thaw the Rolls:

Let the frozen yeast rolls stand at room temperature for about fifteen minutes until thawed but still slightly firm. Do not try to speed this up in the microwave since that affects the rise.

Shape and Fill the Dough:

On a clean nonstick surface gently flatten each dough ball into a round about three inches across using your fingertips. Place three cubes of colby jack cheese into the center of each round. Gather the edges carefully and pinch well to fully seal the cheese inside.

Arrange in Muffin Tin:

Place each filled dough ball seam side down into a prepared muffin cup. Repeat with all the rolls making sure there are no gaps so cheese does not leak out.

Proof the Rolls:

Cover the filled muffin tin with a slightly damp cloth and let it stand in a draft free place for about one hour or until the rolls have doubled in size. This step is vital for a light airy texture.

Mix the Butter Topping:

Just before baking melt the reserved butter again if needed. Stir in the grated Parmesan parsley Italian seasoning and minced garlic. This mixture forms a fragrant herby crust on the rolls.

Top and Sprinkle:

With a pastry brush generously coat the tops and sides of each risen roll with the butter mixture. Scatter extra Parmesan and the shredded cheese over each one to make the tops beautifully cheesy and golden.

Bake:

Place the muffin tin on the center rack in a preheated three hundred seventy five degree oven. Bake for eighteen to twenty two minutes until your kitchen smells amazing and the rolls are puffed and golden brown on top.

Serve:

Carefully transfer the hot rolls to a cooling rack using a butter knife to help release any cheese that may have oozed out. Serve immediately while the cheese is melted and strings as you pull them apart.

Save it

Every time I make these rolls I remember my youngest proudly shaping her first roll sticky fingers and all and the laughter as we snuck extra cheese cubes into a few for extra stretchy centers. Colby jack has become our family favorite for its smooth melt and mild flavor but you can make these your own by mixing up the cheeses inside.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before storing them in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for about a day or refrigerate for up to three days. To warm them up and restore their crisp crust a few minutes in a hot oven works much better than using the microwave. If freezing wrap well to prevent any freezer smell from affecting the buttery dough.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any melty cheese that you have on hand even a blend for extra character. Fresh herbs like basil or chives substitute well if you do not have parsley. Store bought pizza dough works in a pinch though it will taste a bit less rich than yeast roll dough.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these rolls with a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy lunch or add them as a side to steak chili or even a simple green salad. For parties a platter with warmed marinara or ranch dip is always a crowd pleaser. They are equally at home at holiday feasts as a buttery basket on the table.

Cultural and Historical Context

Stuffed breads and rolls have roots in many kitchen traditions from Italian cheese buns to the meltingly soft rolls found in Midwest potlucks. Cheesy garlic rolls like these have become a beloved staple in American kitchens often made with store bought dough for convenience while keeping to that core comfort of gooey cheese and buttery bread.

Save it

Make these once and you will find them disappearing faster than you expect. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness with your next family meal.

Common Questions

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Pinch the dough edges tightly to fully seal the cheese inside, placing the seam side down in the muffin cup.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, cheddar, colby jack, or mozzarella all work well, or combine for extra flavor and meltiness.

→ How do I know when the rolls are done?

Bake until puffed and golden brown on top; the cheese inside should be melted and gooey.

→ What’s the best way to serve these rolls?

Serve warm, ideally with a side of pizza or marinara sauce for dipping. They pair well with many meals.

→ Can I make the rolls ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before rising, then let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.

→ Is it possible to use fresh dough instead of frozen?

Absolutely, homemade yeast dough works perfectly in place of frozen rolls if you prefer making it from scratch.