Cheesy Garlic Rolls

Cheesy Garlic Rolls

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is alive and active.In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the ingredients are well combined, forming a sticky dough. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
2. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. The dough should feel soft and pillowy once it has risen.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic butter. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and Italian seasoning. Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches. Brush the surface of the dough with the prepared garlic butter, making sure to reserve a little for later. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, similar to how you would roll cinnamon rolls. Pinch the seam to seal it. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
5. Second Rise: Place the rolls, cut side up, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them evenly. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they puff up and fill the dish.
6. Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, brush them with the remaining garlic butter, ensuring that each roll is well-coated. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
7. Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. These cheesy garlic rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or as a perfect accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes.

Tips:

• For an extra cheesy experience, add a sprinkle of cheese on top of the rolls before baking.
• You can also customize the filling by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even some crumbled bacon for a savory twist.

Enjoy the delightful combination of soft, fluffy rolls infused with garlic and loaded with gooey cheese. These rolls are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!