If you’re like me and love that irresistible, buttery, garlicky bread at Thanksgiving dinners, then you’re going to flip for this Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with fresh garlic flavor, making them the perfect side that everyone will be fighting over. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want these rolls on your holiday table every year!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Thanksgiving Side: These rolls complement every dish on your holiday plate with their rich garlic butter flavor.
- Soft & Fluffy Texture: Thanks to slow rising and the right amount of flour, these rolls practically melt in your mouth.
- Made with Simple Ingredients: Just everyday pantry staples come together for a crowd-pleasing roll.
- Impressively Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pro baker to nail this recipe — I’ll walk you through every step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here plays a special role in creating the perfect Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe. Using fresh garlic and quality butter really elevates the flavor, while using instant yeast helps the dough rise beautifully without fuss.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted lets you control the saltiness, plus it’s great for that rich garlic butter coating after baking.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh is best here for that punch of garlicky goodness that you want in every bite.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base for soft, fluffy rolls; I recommend spooning and leveling your flour for best results.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens up the garlic butter.
- Granulated Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and balance the garlic flavors.
- Instant Yeast: Fast-acting and reliable, it helps the dough rise nicely without needing to proof in water first.
- Fine Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors without being overpowering.
- Milk (Whole or 2%): Warmed to 110°F — this temperature is perfect for activating the yeast without killing it.
- Egg: Adds richness and helps with the dough’s structure, plus an extra beaten egg for brushing to get those golden tops.
- Flaky Sea Salt: Optional but my favorite finishing touch sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Variations
I love customizing these rolls depending on who I’m serving and the flavor twists I want to try. Feel free to make these your own by adding extra herbs or swapping ingredients for dietary needs.
- Herb Infused Rolls: I sometimes mix in rosemary or thyme with the parsley for a fresh, woodsy note that pairs beautifully with turkey.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread Rolls: Throw in some shredded mozzarella or parmesan for a melty, savory surprise inside your rolls.
- Gluten-Free Option: While I haven’t perfected this recipe gluten-free myself, using a good gluten-free flour blend and adding xanthan gum can work wonders.
- Vegan Version: Swap out butter for vegan margarine and substitute the egg with flaxseed “egg” or applesauce for a plant-based take.
How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Garlic Butter Base
Start by melting 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small pot over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—this is key to avoiding bitterness. Remove from heat and let it cool while you gather and measure your other ingredients. This garlic butter will mix right into the dough, giving those rolls that magical aroma from the get-go.
Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer bowl), whisk together the flour, fresh chopped parsley, sugar, instant yeast, and sea salt. Add the warmed milk (ideally around 110°F), one whole egg, and your cooled garlic butter. Using a dough hook attachment on low speed, knead the dough for about 10-12 minutes until it’s smooth, soft, and slightly tacky to touch. Be careful not to add too much flour—if the dough is too sticky to handle, add one tablespoon of flour at a time until it feels right.
Step 3: Shape and Rise the Rolls
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions (a kitchen scale really helps here so your rolls bake evenly). Shape each piece into a smooth ball by pulling the dough underneath and pinching the bottom seam tight—this helps the rolls keep their shape as they rise. Arrange the rolls in a buttered 9×13 pan, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let them rise in a warm spot until they double in size, usually about 1 to 2 hours. This slow rise makes such a difference in the texture.
Step 4: Bake and Brush with Garlic Butter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Before baking, brush the tops of your rolls with a beaten egg—this gives them a glossy, golden finish. Bake for 20-30 minutes until the tops are beautifully browned. While the rolls bake, prepare your finishing garlic butter by melting 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, cooking for just a minute or two until fragrant, then stirring in fresh parsley. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with this garlic butter and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you like. Serve these warm for maximum happy sighs!
Pro Tips for Making Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe
- Use Warm Milk: Warming your milk to about 110°F wakes up the yeast without killing it — I learned this the hard way when my dough refused to rise cold!
- Don’t Overknead: Knead until smooth and tacky, but not sticky; overkneading can make rolls tough, so I watch the texture closely.
- Pinch the Dough Seam: Shaping each roll with a pinched bottom keeps them from spreading out flat — a trick I picked up from an artisan baker friend.
- Brush Rolls Warm: Applying garlic butter right out of the oven locks in moisture and gives that irresistible sheen and aroma that everyone loves.
How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe
Garnishes
I always finish these rolls with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and flaky sea salt—this gives each bite a light herbal kick and a satisfying crunch. Sometimes I’ll add a bit of grated parmesan on top before baking for an extra special touch my family goes crazy for.
Side Dishes
These garlic bread rolls pair effortlessly with roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and rich cranberry sauce. Honestly, they are such a crowd-pleaser I find myself reaching for them before the main course even hits the table!
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to arrange the rolls in a round basket lined with a festive cloth napkin, letting each person pull off warm rolls themselves. Another fun idea is to serve them in mini cast-iron skillets with an extra pat of garlic herb butter on top for individual guests—delightful and cozy!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover garlic bread rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, though I have to admit they rarely last that long in my house. If you live somewhere humid, popping them in the fridge can help extend their life without drying them out too much.
Freezing
These rolls freeze wonderfully! Just let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
I reheat leftover or thawed rolls wrapped in foil at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, then brush with a little extra garlic butter right before serving to bring back that fresh-baked glow and buttery punch.
FAQs
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Can I make these garlic bread rolls without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! You can knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 12-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. It takes a bit more arm work, but I love the connection you get with the dough this way.
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How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The tops should be a gorgeous golden brown, and if you tap the bottom of a roll, it should sound hollow. You can also use an instant thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F.
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Can I prepare the dough the night before Thanksgiving?
Yes! After kneading and shaping the rolls, place them covered in the fridge overnight for a slow, cold rise. Take them out an hour or so before baking to come to room temperature and finish proofing.
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Do these rolls freeze well after baking?
Yes, you can freeze baked rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag. Just thaw and warm before serving. While fresh is best, freezing is great for making ahead.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe has become my go-to crowd-pleaser during the holidays. The joy of biting into a soft, warm roll dripping with garlicky butter is unmatched, and it’s such a simple way to elevate your Thanksgiving meal. I’m sure once you make these, they’ll become a beloved tradition for you too. Give them a try, and don’t forget to save me one!
Print
Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Bread Rolls are a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dinner, offering soft, fluffy rolls infused with fragrant garlic and fresh parsley. Made from scratch with a tender yeast dough and topped with a savory garlic butter glaze, they bring comforting flavors and pleasing aroma to your holiday table. Easy to prepare and bake, these rolls are ideal for serving warm and fresh, ensuring a delightful bread experience for your guests.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 3 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 cup whole or 2% milk, warmed to 110°F
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 beaten egg, for brushing the tops
For the Garlic Butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Garlic Butter: Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside. In a small pot, melt 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Cook over low heat for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool while preparing the dough.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: In a stand mixer bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon sea salt. Add the warmed milk (110°F), 1 large room temperature egg, and the cooled garlic butter mixture. Mix using the dough hook attachment on low speed.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the mixture for about 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, soft, and slightly tacky. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add flour a tablespoon at a time until manageable but still moist.
- Shape Rolls: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions of approximately 67 grams each. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by pinching the seam at the bottom tightly. Arrange the dough balls in the prepared baking pan evenly spaced.
- First Rise: Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm area. Allow the rolls to rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 2 hours.
- Preheat Oven and Egg Wash: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly brush the tops of the risen rolls with the beaten egg to help achieve a glossy, golden crust.
- Bake the Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until the rolls are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Topping: While baking, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small pot. Stir in 1 tablespoon minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and mix in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley.
- Finish and Serve: Remove rolls from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the freshly prepared garlic butter. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the tops as desired and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Measuring flour correctly is important: spoon flour into your measuring cup and level with a knife for best results.
- Use instant yeast for a reliable and fast rise.
- Letting dough rise in a consistently warm spot ensures the best texture.
- For softer rolls, avoid adding too much extra flour during kneading.
- Brush rolls with egg wash right before baking for a shiny crust.
- Fresh minced garlic for both dough and butter gives the best fragrance, but roasted garlic can be substituted for a sweeter, milder flavor.
- Flaky sea salt on top adds a nice crunch and finishing touch but can be omitted if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
