Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls

 

There’s nothing quite like the smell of homemade bread baking in the oven—especially when it’s stuffed with melty cheese and finished with garlicky butter. These Cheesy Garlic Rolls are the kind of recipe that instantly turns a simple meal into something special.

I first made them for a family dinner, and before they even made it to the table, half of them had already disappeared. The combination of soft, fluffy bread, gooey sharp cheddar in the center, and a buttery garlic topping is truly irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weekend meal, these rolls are always a hit. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make from scratch.

Ingredients

FOR THE BREAD:

• 7 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons rapid-rise yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes

FOR THE TOPPING:

• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Cheddar-Stuffed Garlic Rolls

STEP 1: MIX THE DRY INGREDIENTS

In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of the flour, rapid-rise yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

STEP 2: WARM THE MILK AND BUTTER

In a small saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of butter. Stir in the milk and warm the mixture until it reaches about 110–115°F. It should feel like a warm bath when touched.

STEP 3: MAKE THE DOUGH

Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add the eggs and beat until everything is well combined.

STEP 4: ADD THE REST OF THE FLOUR

Add the remaining flour gradually, one cup at a time. Stop when the dough pulls away from the bowl but still feels slightly sticky.

STEP 5: LET THE DOUGH RISE

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

STEP 6: SHAPE AND FILL THE ROLLS

Punch down the dough and divide it into 32 even pieces. Flatten each one slightly, place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center, and pinch the edges together to seal the roll.

STEP 7: LET THEM RISE AGAIN

Place the sealed rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let them rise again for 30 minutes.

STEP 8: MAKE THE GARLIC BUTTER TOPPING

While the rolls rise, melt 1/4 cup of butter and stir in the minced garlic. In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

STEP 9: BAKE TO GOLDEN PERFECTION

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

STEP 10: FINISH WITH GARLIC AND CHEESE

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter and sprinkle the Parmesan-parsley mixture over the top. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love These Rolls

These rolls have everything: fluffy homemade bread, a gooey cheese center, and a garlicky, cheesy topping. They make any meal feel special and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t be surprised if they disappear before your main dish is even served!