Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls Recipe
Let me tell you, these Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls are absolute game-changers when you want a cozy, cheesy snack or a side that steals the show. I first made them on a chilly weekend when I craved that melty mozzarella magic wrapped in soft dough and kissed with garlic buttery goodness. They’re surprisingly easy to whip up, and the ooey-gooey cheese filling makes them addictive in the best way.
Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for an easy dinner accompaniment, or just want to impress family without hours in the kitchen, this Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls recipe has your back. I love how versatile they feel — perfect fresh out of the oven or even warmed up later. Once you master this, you’ll be reaching for the ingredients again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients work together to build the perfect balance of soft, buttery dough and savory cheesy filling with a garlicky punch. I usually keep these staples on hand because they’re so handy for quick snack emergencies or last-minute guests.
- Pizza dough: Store-bought or homemade works; just make sure it’s fresh for the best texture.
- Mozzarella cubes: Using cubes instead of shredded helps the cheese melt evenly inside each roll without oozing out too much.
- Butter: Unsalted is usually best so you can control the salt level in the garlic butter mixture.
- Italian seasoning: This adds that perfect herby note — if you don’t have it, a mix of oregano and basil is a great backup.
- Garlic clove (minced): Fresh garlic is crucial here; it gives that bold, aromatic flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan lends a nutty, salty finish to the garlic butter coating on top.
Variations
I love playing around with this recipe to keep things interesting and personal. You can easily tweak the fillings or seasonings to suit your mood or dietary preferences — it’s all about what makes you happy.
- Cheese swaps: I once tried a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar and it was delicious — sharper flavor with the same melty stretch.
- Herb variations: Adding fresh chopped rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning creates a fragrant twist I really enjoy for dinner parties.
- Spicy kick: For a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the garlic butter — your guests will notice but won’t be overwhelmed.
- Gluten-free: Using a gluten-free pizza dough makes this recipe accessible without sacrificing much texture.
How to Make Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
Start by melting the butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting the garlic soften for about a minute — don’t brown it, or it’ll get bitter. Then stir in the parmesan cheese off the heat; this mix will be your aromatic glaze for the rolls once baked.
Step 2: Roll and Stuff the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll your pizza dough out into a rectangle roughly 12×15 inches. Place mozzarella cubes evenly spaced on one half of the dough. Fold the other half over the cheese to cover completely and gently press down to seal. Then, cut your dough into strips or squares, making sure to pinch the edges to keep the cheese secure inside as they bake.
Step 3: Brush and Bake
Place your rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Generously brush each roll with the garlic butter mixture — this adds moisture and that irresistible garlicky flavor crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown and puffed, and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
How to Serve Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
I’m a big fan of sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil on top after baking — the bright green adds color and a fresh taste that cuts through the richness. A little extra parmesan on top never hurts if you want to play it up even more.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair beautifully with a crisp green salad for a light meal or alongside a comforting bowl of tomato soup for dipping. I also like serving them with pasta dishes—think spaghetti marinara or creamy Alfredo—to amp up the cheesy carb love.
Creative Ways to Present
For birthdays or special occasions, I’ve arranged the rolls into a circular pull-apart “wreath,” garnished with fresh herbs and a side of marinara sauce for dipping — it’s always a crowd-pleaser. You can also stuff them with different cheeses and herbs for a colorful platter that invites experimentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep well for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid sogginess. When you want a snack later, they’re ready for a quick reheat.
Freezing
Freezing this Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeks. I freeze them unbaked on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. When I’m ready to bake, I let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then proceed directly to baking — the cheese stays perfectly melty.
Reheating
To revive leftovers, I pop the rolls in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm and the crust re-crisped — microwave tends to make them chewy, so I try to avoid it. A quick broil at the end adds that fresh-baked look that never fails to impress.
FAQs
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Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of cubes for the Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls recipe?
Yes, you can use shredded mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand. Just be careful when sealing the rolls, as shredded cheese can sometimes melt out more easily. Cubes tend to stay contained better, but shredded will still provide that delicious cheesy melt.
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How do I prevent the garlic from burning in the butter mixture?
Keep the heat low when melting the butter and add the garlic once the butter is mostly melted. Stir frequently and cook just until fragrant and soft, usually about 30-60 seconds. Removing the pan from direct heat before stirring in the parmesan stops carryover cooking and prevents bitterness.
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Can I make these rolls vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, and replace butter with vegan margarine or olive oil. Just keep in mind the flavor profile might shift, but the concept stays delicious.
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What’s the best pizza dough to use for this recipe?
I prefer using pizza dough with a good balance of elasticity and fluffiness—either store-bought or homemade. Look for dough that’s soft but not sticky, so it rolls out easily and holds its shape when stuffed.
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Can I add herbs inside the cheese filling?
Yes! Mixing fresh chopped basil, oregano, or chives into the mozzarella cubes before stuffing makes the rolls even more flavorful. I often do this to add a little freshness with every cheesy bite.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls recipe has become one of my favorites precisely because it feels simple but delivers on every level — soft dough, rich melted cheese, garlicky buttery topping. Whenever I make these, the house fills with this irresistible aroma that always gets people asking for seconds. I hope you find as much joy making and sharing them as I do. Go ahead and try it yourself; I have a feeling it’s going to be your next go-to comfort food!
PrintCheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls Recipe
These Cheese Stuffed Garlic Rolls are soft, flavorful, and perfect for any meal or snack. Made with pizza dough stuffed with gooey mozzarella cubes and topped with a buttery garlic parmesan mixture, they are a delicious treat that combines savory herbs and cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 36 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dough and Cheese Filling
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 36 mozzarella cubes
Garlic Butter Topping
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Divide and Stuff Dough: Roll out your pizza dough and divide it into 36 equal portions. Flatten each portion slightly, place one mozzarella cube in the center, and carefully wrap the dough around the cheese, sealing it well so the cheese does not leak out during baking.
- Mix Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter and combine it with minced garlic and Italian seasoning to create a flavorful garlic butter mixture.
- Arrange Rolls and Apply Topping: Place the stuffed dough balls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they are well coated for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle Parmesan: Evenly sprinkle parmesan cheese over the tops of each roll to add a salty, tangy crust once baked.
- Bake Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving to enjoy the gooey, cheesy center and rich garlic flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is sealed tightly around the cheese cubes to prevent them from leaking out during baking.
- You can substitute mozzarella cubes with other cheese types like cheddar or provolone for different flavor profiles.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Cheese Stuffed Rolls, Garlic Rolls, Mozzarella Rolls, Italian Appetizer, Stuffed Bread, Garlic Butter Rolls
