Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe with you! These rolls are soft, buttery, and loaded with fresh garlic flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds at your holiday table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to add a homemade touch to your Thanksgiving dinner, this recipe is straightforward and absolutely worth the effort. Trust me, once you try these rolls, they might just steal the spotlight!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe plays a specific role in creating those perfect soft, flavorful rolls. I always recommend using fresh garlic and good-quality butter for the best taste. Also, warming the milk just right helps activate the yeast without killing it — a key step I learned the hard way!

• Unsalted butter: Important for controlling saltiness; you’ll use some melted with garlic for the dough and more for the garlic butter topping.
• Minced garlic: Fresh is a must here — the flavor is much brighter than pre-minced varieties.
• All-purpose flour: Be sure to measure it properly — spoon and level is the way to avoid a dense dough.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a lovely fresh note and color, both inside the rolls and in the garlic butter brushing.
• Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and gives a subtle sweetness balancing the garlic.
• Instant yeast: I love instant yeast because it mixes right in without proofing, making things simpler.
• Fine sea salt: Enhances flavor without any graininess.
• Whole or 2% milk: Warmed to about 110°F, this hydrates the yeast and dough perfectly.
• Large eggs: One mixed into the dough for structure and softness, and one beaten for brushing the tops.
• Flaky sea salt (optional): To sprinkle on top for a delightful finish after baking.

Variations

While I usually stick with the classic garlic and parsley combo, you can have a lot of fun customizing these rolls! Don’t be afraid to adjust the herbs or try different toppings — this recipe is forgiving and versatile.

• Herb twist: I’ve swapped fresh parsley with rosemary or thyme when I want an earthier flavor, especially if serving with roast beef.
• Cheesy version: Adding shredded parmesan or mozzarella into the dough or on top before baking is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Vegan option: Substitute dairy butter with plant-based butter and use a flax egg for brushing — the texture remains soft and delicious.
• Extra garlicky: Double the minced garlic in the garlic butter for those of us who crave bold garlic flavor at Thanksgiving!

How to Make Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe

Step 1: Infuse Butter with Garlic

Start by melting 4 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small pot over low heat and adding 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned—this step is where all that amazing garlic aroma develops. I learned the hard way that too much heat here can make the garlic bitter, so watch it closely. Once it’s ready, remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon fine sea salt. Pour in warmed milk (around 110°F), one large room-temp egg, and the garlic butter you made earlier. Use a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed to knead for about 10-12 minutes, until you see a smooth, soft, and tacky dough. If it’s too sticky to handle, sprinkle in flour one tablespoon at a time. This dough is forgiving, but patience here gives you ideal roll texture.

Step 3: Shape Your Rolls and Let Rise

Once kneaded, divide your dough into 12 equal portions (I always use a kitchen scale to get 67 grams exactly — it helps the rolls bake evenly). Shape each portion into a smooth ball by gently pulling the edges under and pinching the seam tight on the bottom. Place them in a buttered 9×13-inch pan, spaced evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, usually about 1 to 2 hours. Don’t rush this step—well-risen dough bakes up soft and fluffy every time.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the tops of the risen rolls with a beaten egg — this gives them a gorgeous golden finish and a little shine. Bake for 20-30 minutes, checking near the end; when tops are beautifully golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped gently, they’re done. Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on them!

Step 5: Finish with Garlic Butter and Serve

While the rolls bake, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon minced garlic in a small pot over low heat, just like before. Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley and remove from heat. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with this garlic butter — watch how the butter soaks in and makes each bite irresistible. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for that added texture and flavor punch, then serve warm. Your guests will be amazed by how aromatic and soft these rolls are!

How to Serve Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishes, I love some extra chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top after brushing with garlic butter to keep the flavor bright and fresh. A light dusting of flaky sea salt adds a subtle crunch and balances the richness perfectly. If you want to get fancy, a little grated parmesan before baking also tastes fantastic.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe pairs wonderfully with pretty much anything on your Thanksgiving table—especially roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce. I’ve also served them alongside hearty soups or stews for a comforting meal anytime.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, I’ve arranged these rolls in a round baking dish to form a pull-apart bread centerpiece that looks stunning on the table. You can also place fresh herb sprigs around the pan for visual appeal. If you’re serving a crowd, a rustic wooden board with a small bowl of extra garlic butter makes dipping extra fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Wrapped properly, they stay soft and fresh enough to enjoy without reheating, though I do recommend warming them slightly before eating.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. I freeze them unbaked after shaping or fully baked, depending on my time. When thawed or baked from frozen, they taste just as wonderful as fresh.

Reheating

I reheat rolls wrapped in foil at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain softness. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel works well for a fast warm-up, but don’t overdo it or they might get chewy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Bread Rolls for Thanksgiving Recipe is one my family looks forward to every year. I love how they come out soft, buttery, and brimming with fresh garlic flavor—the kind of homemade bread that makes a big holiday feel cozy. If you’re looking for a show-stopping side to complement your turkey and sides, I can’t recommend these enough. Go ahead, try them out, and watch how quickly they disappear from your table!

Print