If you love classic garlic bread but crave a playful twist, Garlic Bread Roll Ups are about to become your new obsession. These bite-sized delights wrap cheesy, garlicky goodness in a golden, crisp hug of bread, perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself. With a warm, buttery aroma and a gooey mozzarella center, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering or cozy night in. Whether you serve them as a party appetizer or a comforting side, Garlic Bread Roll Ups will steal the spotlight and win hearts with every irresistible bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Garlic Bread Roll Ups lies in their simple, everyday ingredients—each one playing a starring role in bringing flavor and texture to the table. From the hearty bread to the herb-flecked butter and melty cheese, every element is essential to the magic of this dish.
- French bread or baguette: The foundation for your roll ups! Choose a loaf that’s slightly crusty on the outside but soft within, making it easy to roll and perfect for soaking up all that garlic butter.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter becomes the creamy carrier for all the herbs and garlic, ensuring every bite is luxuriously rich.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses the bread with that signature, irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- Fresh parsley: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, herby lift. Using fresh parsley is ideal, but dried works in a pinch!
- Dried oregano: Brings a warm, Mediterranean note that complements the cheese and garlic beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The star of the show—melty, stretchy, and utterly satisfying in every bite.
- Salt: A pinch brings all the flavors into perfect harmony; adjust to your taste preference.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, salty finish if you want to take your roll ups over the top.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, this is your secret weapon for a gentle kick.
How to Make Garlic Bread Roll Ups
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your roll ups go in, they’ll bake evenly and develop that golden exterior. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine your softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes if you love a little spice. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined—the mixture should be smooth, creamy, and aromatic. This flavorful butter is the secret to making your Garlic Bread Roll Ups truly unforgettable.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Slice your French bread into 1-inch thick pieces. If you’re using a larger loaf, cut each slice in half lengthwise to make them easier to roll. For smaller baguettes, simply slice and go! Lay each piece flat and generously spread the garlic butter mixture on one side, making sure every inch is covered.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Once your bread is slathered in garlic butter, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the buttered side. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra depth and nuttiness if you’re feeling fancy—trust me, it’s worth it!
Step 5: Roll the Bread
Now comes the fun part! Gently roll each prepared bread slice into a tight spiral, like a mini cinnamon roll or burrito. Place each roll seam-side down on your lined baking sheet to keep them from unraveling as they bake.
Step 6: Bake the Roll-Ups
Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for golden, crisp exteriors and bubbling cheese peeking out the sides. The kitchen will fill with the heavenly scent of butter and garlic—resist the urge to dig in right away!
Step 7: Serve
Let the Garlic Bread Roll Ups cool for a few minutes before serving so the cheese sets just enough to avoid molten cheese burns. For a pretty finish, sprinkle with a bit of extra chopped parsley. If you want to take things up a notch, serve with your favorite marinara or a creamy dipping sauce on the side.
How to Serve Garlic Bread Roll Ups
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan gives these roll ups a restaurant-worthy finish. The pop of green not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh note to balance the rich, cheesy flavors. For a special touch, a pinch of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving can make the roll ups extra enticing.
Side Dishes
Garlic Bread Roll Ups pair beautifully with a classic Caesar salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or alongside your favorite pasta dish. Their cheesy, garlicky flavor complements robust mains like lasagna, chicken Parmesan, or even a simple roasted vegetable medley. They’re also fantastic as a stand-alone snack or party appetizer—just add your favorite dip!
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the roll ups in a circular pattern on a platter, alternating with fresh basil leaves or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. Skewer them on toothpicks for easy, mess-free party bites, or serve them in a bread basket lined with a checkered napkin for a homey, inviting feel. If you’re feeling playful, offer a trio of dipping sauces—like marinara, ranch, and garlic aioli—for a dip-and-enjoy experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Garlic Bread Roll Ups (which is a rare feat!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and can be quickly revived to their original glory with proper reheating.
Freezing
Garlic Bread Roll Ups freeze surprisingly well. After baking and cooling completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to a month—just pull out as many as you need for future cravings!
Reheating
To reheat, place the roll ups on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until hot and crisp. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bread soggy; the oven brings back that irresistible crunch and gooey cheese center.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for Garlic Bread Roll Ups?
Absolutely! While French bread or baguette works best for that perfect balance of crust and softness, you can experiment with sandwich bread, ciabatta, or even whole wheat. Just make sure the bread isn’t too thick or dense to roll easily.
Can I make Garlic Bread Roll Ups ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare and assemble the roll ups a few hours in advance, refrigerate them on the baking sheet, and bake just before serving. This makes them ideal for parties or busy weeknights when you want fresh, hot appetizers with minimal last-minute effort.
What are the best cheeses to use besides mozzarella?
Mozzarella is a classic for its meltability, but feel free to mix things up with provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses. For an extra punch, a little sharp cheddar or pepper jack can add a fun twist.
Do I have to use fresh herbs?
While fresh parsley provides the brightest flavor and color, dried parsley or mixed Italian herbs work well in a pinch. If using dried herbs, remember they’re more concentrated, so use about half the amount.
Can I make Garlic Bread Roll Ups gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free baguette or bread. The key is to pick one that’s soft enough to roll but sturdy enough to hold the filling and bake up crisp.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Bread Roll Ups are the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself to a cozy snack. They’re simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—so why not give them a try? Your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you!
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Garlic Bread Roll Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Bread Roll Ups are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack featuring soft French bread rolled with a flavorful garlic butter mixture and melted mozzarella cheese. Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these bite-sized roll ups offer a perfect blend of herbs, garlic, and cheese, ideal for sharing at parties or serving alongside your favorite Italian dishes.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf of French bread (or 8–10 pieces of small baguette-style bread)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix thoroughly until well combined to infuse the butter with vibrant herb and garlic flavors.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread loaf into 1-inch thick slices. If you are using a larger loaf, slice each bread piece in half lengthwise. For smaller baguette pieces, you can leave them whole. Spread the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over each bread piece, ensuring every bite has that delicious garlic flavor.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered side of each bread slice. Add grated Parmesan cheese on top if you desire an extra layer of cheesy richness.
- Roll the Bread: Gently roll each bread slice tightly, similar to a mini cinnamon roll or a small burrito. Place the roll-ups seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to help them hold their shape while baking.
- Bake the Roll-Ups: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bread turns golden and the cheese inside has melted and is bubbly. The garlic butter will release its fragrant aroma, and the bread will develop a slightly crispy exterior.
- Serve: Remove the roll-ups from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. For an added touch, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Optionally, serve with marinara or a creamy dipping sauce to complement the flavors.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for a brighter flavor; dried herbs work well as a substitute.
- Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
- These roll ups can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Substitute mozzarella with other melty cheeses like provolone or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Make sure the bread is not too fresh or soft to avoid sogginess; a slightly stale bread works best for rolling and baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll up (approximate)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
