Few things are as irresistible as warm, golden bread fresh from the oven. Add melted cheese, fragrant garlic, and soft fluffy dough, and you get the ultimate comfort food: cheesy garlic pull-apart bread rolls. These bite-sized rolls are soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and filled with gooey cheese that stretches with every pull. Perfect for sharing, dipping, or snacking, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack, these cheesy bread rolls deliver bakery-quality flavor with simple ingredients. The garlic butter seeps into every layer while the cheese melts into pockets of creamy goodness. They’re ideal alongside pasta, soup, salads, or enjoyed on their own straight from the tray.
Easy to prepare and beautifully golden when baked, this homemade pull-apart bread recipe combines classic comfort and irresistible flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian herbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Extra cheese for topping (optional)
Preparation Steps
Begin by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Stir well to distribute everything evenly.
Add warm milk, melted butter, and the egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
While the dough rises, prepare the garlic butter mixture. Combine melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, and garlic powder. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air bubbles. Divide the dough into small equal pieces, about the size of golf balls. Flatten each piece slightly and place a spoonful of shredded mozzarella in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around the cheese and pinch the edges closed.
Arrange the filled dough balls seam-side down in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking tray, placing them close together. This helps create the classic pull-apart effect once baked.
Brush the tops generously with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle a little extra cheese and herbs over the top for extra flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
Cover loosely and let rise again for 20 to 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed and golden brown on top. The cheese inside should be fully melted and stretchy.
Remove from the oven and brush with more garlic butter while still warm for extra richness and shine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheesy garlic rolls warm for the best texture and flavor. Pull them apart and watch the cheese stretch beautifully. Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dip, or garlic sauce for dipping.
They make an excellent side dish for pasta, grilled chicken, soups, or salads. You can also serve them at parties, family dinners, or holiday gatherings.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.
Tips for Perfect Rolls
Use fresh yeast to ensure the dough rises properly. Warm milk should be lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
Seal the cheese well inside each roll to prevent leakage during baking. If you like stronger flavor, mix Parmesan or cheddar with the mozzarella.
Do not overcrowd the tray too tightly before the second rise, as the rolls need room to expand.
For extra crispiness, bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheesy garlic pull-apart bread rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor. They combine buttery garlic aroma with melted cheese goodness, making them irresistible for both kids and adults.
The recipe is simple, affordable, and perfect for any occasion. Homemade bread always tastes better, and these rolls prove it with every bite.
Perfect for sharing, dipping, and enjoying fresh out of the oven, this cheesy bread recipe will quickly become one of your favorite comfort food classics. Once you make them, you’ll want to bake them again and again.