30-Minute Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls

These 30-minute garlic parmesan dinner rolls are soft, buttery, and packed with flavor—all ready in just half an hour. I love whipping up a batch when I need a fast, homemade bread option that doesn’t skimp on taste. With garlic-infused butter, a sprinkle of parmesan, and tender texture, they’re the perfect last-minute addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, simple, and completely satisfying. There’s no long proofing time, and I don’t have to sacrifice that soft, pull-apart feel I love in dinner rolls. The garlic butter adds a rich, savory flavor, and the parmesan gives each bite a little extra something. Whether I’m serving soup, salad, pasta, or roasted meat, these rolls always complete the plate.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

• All-purpose flour

• Instant yeast (or rapid-rise yeast)

• Warm water

• Granulated sugar

• Salt

• Olive oil or melted butter

• Egg

For the topping:

• Unsalted butter (melted)

• Garlic (minced or grated)

• Grated parmesan cheese

• Fresh or dried parsley (optional)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. I let it sit for 3–5 minutes, just until the yeast starts to foam.

3. I add the oil or butter, egg, salt, and about half the flour. I mix well, then gradually add the rest of the flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

4. I knead the dough for 2–3 minutes on a lightly floured surface until smooth.

5. I divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape them into balls.

6. I place the rolls in the prepared baking dish and let them rest for 5–10 minutes while I prepare the garlic butter.

7. I melt the butter, stir in the garlic, and brush some of it over the rolls.

8. I bake the rolls for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

9. As soon as they come out of the oven, I brush with the remaining garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan and parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 rolls. It takes about 10 minutes to prep, 5–10 minutes to rise while the oven preheats, and 12–15 minutes to bake—done in just 30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a little shredded mozzarella to the tops before baking for a cheesy finish. I’ve also mixed dried Italian herbs into the dough for an herby twist. If I want a sweet version, I skip the garlic and parmesan and brush the tops with honey butter after baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for 4 days. To reheat, I warm them in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes or microwave for about 10 seconds per roll. They also freeze well—just wrap them tightly and thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast?

Yes, I just let it proof a few extra minutes in the warm water and sugar before adding the rest of the ingredients.

Can I skip the egg?

Yes, though the egg adds richness and softness. I replace it with 2 extra tablespoons of warm water or milk if needed.

What if I don’t have parmesan?

I’ve used shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even left them plain with just garlic butter. They’re still delicious.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the dough earlier in the day and let it rest in the fridge until ready to shape and bake. I just bring it to room temperature before forming the rolls.

Why are my rolls dense?

I make sure not to add too much flour. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, not dry. Also, I use fresh yeast and don’t skip the short resting period.

Conclusion

These 30-minute garlic parmesan dinner rolls are quick, flavorful, and foolproof. I love how they come together so fast without compromising on softness or taste. Whether I’m adding them to a busy weeknight dinner or whipping them up for unexpected guests, they’re always warm, buttery, and totally irresistible.

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