Cheesy Garlic Butter Pull-Apart Dinner Rolls

Upgrade regular dinner rolls into cheesy garlic butter stuffed pull-apart rolls! These golden, buttery rolls hide a molten mozzarella center, are brushed with a fragrant garlic parmesan butter, and bake up in just 10 minutes. Perfect for parties, game days, or any dinner that deserves a showstopping side.

These pull-apart rolls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Start with pre-baked dinner rolls or soft Hawaiian rolls, cut a pocket into each, and stuff them with a cube of mozzarella.

Then brush them generously with a garlic herb parmesan butter and bake until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden. Serve them warm with a side of marinara for dipping, and watch them disappear.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The method here is simple but effective. Using pre-baked rolls saves time and ensures a soft, fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the gooey melted cheese. Cutting a cross and pressing a pocket into each roll creates a secure cavity that holds the mozzarella without the cheese leaking out during baking.

The garlic butter mixture does double duty: it adds flavor to the rolls and helps them turn golden and crisp as they bake.

The parmesan in the butter melts into a savory crust, while the fresh parsley adds a bright note. Baking at a high temperature for a short time ensures the cheese melts completely without drying out the rolls.

Notes and substitutions

Choose soft, pull-apart style rolls like Hawaiian or brioche; they are sturdy enough to hold a pocket and absorb the butter without falling apart.

Avoid crusty rolls, which can be too dense and won't create the same tender bite. Mozzarella string cheese cubes are ideal because they melt into a stretchy, gooey center without becoming watery.

Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor; pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch but may be less pungent. The marinara sauce should be warmed before serving to complement the hot rolls.

If you prefer a spicier kick, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter, though the video does not include it.

• Hawaiian rolls: Any soft dinner rolls or brioche buns work well; avoid crusty rolls that won't hold a pocket.
• Mozzarella string cheese: Fresh mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella can be used; just ensure they are thick enough to stay nested.
• Fresh parsley: Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but reduce to 2 teaspoons for concentrated flavor.
• Marinara sauce: Use a good-quality jarred marinara or homemade tomato sauce; warm it before serving.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Paring knife
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Pastry brush
• Measuring cups and spoons