Garlic Bread Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with rich garlic flavor in every bite. Fresh garlic is mixed directly into the dough, then the warm rolls are brushed with a buttery garlic–herb topping right out of the oven. They’re perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or holiday meals—and just as delicious served on their own while still warm.
For the Dough
4½ tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons minced garlic
3½ cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup whole or 2% milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
1 large egg, room temperature
For Brushing
1 beaten egg
For the Garlic Butter Topping
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Flaky sea salt, for finishing
Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a stand mixer bowl, combine flour, parsley, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, egg, and cooled garlic butter.
Knead with a dough hook on low speed for 10–12 minutes, until the dough is smooth, soft, and slightly tacky. If needed, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions (about 67 g each). Shape into smooth balls and place them seam-side down in the prepared pan.
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Brush the tops of the rolls with beaten egg and bake for 20–30 minutes, until golden brown.
While baking, melt the butter for the topping with minced garlic. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in parsley.
Brush the hot rolls generously with garlic butter, sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired, and serve warm.
Warm milk, not hot: Milk that’s too hot can kill the yeast—aim for warm, not steaming.
Extra garlic flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder to the dough for even more depth.
Soft rolls: Brush the rolls again with butter after baking to keep them extra tender.
Make ahead: Shape the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.