Parmesan Rolls – Soft, Fluffy, and Easy to Make

Introduction

Few things are as satisfying as the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, and these Parmesan Rolls are no exception. With a golden-brown crust, a soft and fluffy interior, and a rich garlic-parmesan topping, these dinner rolls are the perfect addition to any meal.

Whether you need a quick side for a cozy Sunday supper, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or an easy homemade bread recipe, this is the one to try. The best part? This is a bread recipe easy enough for beginners, requiring only a handful of ingredients and simple steps.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make these homemade breads, from preparing the dough to achieving the perfect texture. Plus, we’ll cover variations, storage tips, and serving suggestions to make this recipe even more versatile.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy: These rolls have a light, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Rich Parmesan Flavor: The combination of parmesan cheese and garlic butter makes them irresistible.
• Beginner-Friendly: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a perfect homemade bread recipe easy enough for anyone.
• Versatile: Serve them as a side, use them for sandwiches, or enjoy them on their own.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance for fresh rolls anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Parmesan Dinner Rolls, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)

Kitchen Equipment Required

To make these homemade bread recipes easy, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional)
• Baking sheet or 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
• Pastry brush
• Oven

How to Make Parmesan Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and half of the flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour and knead until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes. If kneading by hand, work the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Second Rise

Cover the rolls loosely and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes, until puffy.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Topping

While the rolls are rising, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, brush the tops with half of the garlic butter mixture and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once baked, brush the warm rolls with the remaining garlic butter, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and parsley, and serve warm.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Cold Milk: Yeast activates best with warm milk (about 110°F/43°C). Cold milk will slow down the rising process.
• Over-Kneading the Dough: Knead just until smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can make the rolls dense.
• Skipping the Second Rise: This step ensures soft and fluffy rolls, so don’t rush it!
• Baking Too Long: Keep an eye on the rolls to prevent over-browning. Check at 18 minutes and adjust as needed.

Recipe Variations & Customizations

• Cheddar Parmesan Rolls: Mix shredded cheddar into the dough for extra cheesiness.
• Rosemary Parmesan Rolls: Add chopped rosemary for a fragrant twist.
• Spicy Parmesan Rolls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.
• 5 Ingredient Recipe Version: For a simpler version, use store-bought pizza dough, garlic butter, parmesan, and parsley.

How to Serve & Presentation Tips

For a beautiful presentation, serve the rolls in a basket lined with a linen napkin. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh herbs for a restaurant-style touch.

What to Serve with Parmesan Dinner Rolls

These Parmesan Dinner Rolls pair wonderfully with:

• Soups & Stews: Perfect for dipping into tomato soup, minestrone, or creamy chowders.
• Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or alfredo pasta.
• Roasted Meats: A great side for roasted chicken, turkey, or beef.
• Salads: Pair with a fresh Caesar or garden salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge, then bake fresh the next day.

What’s the best way to reheat these rolls?

The oven is best for restoring crispness, but the microwave works for a quick warm-up.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but you’ll need to dissolve it in warm milk and sugar first and let it sit for 10 minutes before adding to the flour.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes! Replace the egg with ¼ cup of yogurt or applesauce for a softer roll.

Conclusion

These Parmesan Rolls are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy texture and rich, garlicky parmesan flavor. Whether you’re making them for a Sunday supper, a holiday gathering, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit at your table.

Give this homemade bread recipe easy a try and let us know how they turn out! Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe for more delicious homemade breads. Happy baking!

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