Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups

These cheesy garlic butter rollups are a perfect crispy and golden snack filled with melty cheese and a savory garlic butter coating. They work great as a quick appetizer or a comforting treat. Making them is straightforward and rewarding, ideal for when you want something cheesy and flavorful in under 30 minutes.

I first made these for a casual game night and they disappeared so fast that everyone asked for seconds. Now they are a regular feature whenever friends come over.

Ingredients

• Eight slices of white or whole wheat sandwich bread with crusts removed: soft bread makes rolling easier and keeps the cheese inside
• One cup shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and provides a stretchy texture
• Half a cup shredded cheddar cheese: adds sharpness and depth to the cheese blend
• Two tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: optional but adds a lovely nutty flavor, choose fresh if possible
• Four tablespoons unsalted butter melted: this is key for the garlic butter that coats the rollups
• Two minced garlic cloves: fresh garlic provides a punch of savory aroma
• Half a teaspoon garlic powder: enhances the garlic flavor throughout
• One tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or one teaspoon dried parsley: introduces a fresh herbal note
• Quarter teaspoon salt: balances the flavors
• Optional dipping sauces like marinara, garlic herb sauce, ranch, or spicy ketchup for extra flavor options

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Prepare the Bread:

Using a rolling pin, gently press each bread slice until it is flattened and evenly thin. This helps the bread roll smoothly without ripping and makes the rollups perfectly crispy.

Add Cheese and Roll:

Evenly sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the bottom third of each flattened bread slice. Start rolling tightly from the cheese side up, forming a log shape. If needed, seal the edge using a little bit of melted butter to keep the rollups from opening while baking.

Make the Garlic Butter:

In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, parsley, and salt. Mix thoroughly so the butter is infused with all those great savory flavors.

Bake the Rollups:

Place each rollup seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush generously with the garlic butter mixture. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the rollups are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, use an air fryer at 360 degrees Fahrenheit or 180 degrees Celsius for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serve:

Let the rollups cool for a minute before serving. Offer your preferred dipping sauces on the side, making them even more irresistible.

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My favorite ingredient has to be the fresh garlic in the butter mixture. The aroma as they bake fills the kitchen and always draws the family in. One night while making these, my youngest helped brush the garlic butter and declared it the "best job ever." That moment made this recipe even more special.

Storage Tips

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible since it can make the bread soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a different flavor profile, swap mozzarella for fontina or provolone for a mild but creamy cheese. Use vegan butter and vegan cheese to make the recipe dairy free. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can replace parsley for a new twist.

Serving Suggestions

These rollups pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. They also make a perfect side to tomato soup or chili. For parties, arrange them on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces to please every palate.

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Cultural Context

Cheese-stuffed breads are a beloved comfort food in many cultures. These particular rollups echo the idea of garlic bread but in a fun, handheld form that borrows influence from American snack food traditions. They bring familiarity with a cheesy, buttery upgrade.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for rollups?

Soft sandwich bread, either white or whole wheat, is ideal to easily flatten and roll without tearing, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking.

→ Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella and cheddar?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or provolone for different flavors while maintaining a good melt.

→ How do I prevent the rollups from unrolling during baking?

Press the bread slices flat before filling and seal the edges tightly using a bit of melted butter to keep the rollups intact while cooking.

→ Is garlic butter necessary or can it be substituted?

Garlic butter adds rich flavor and a crispy crust, but you can brush with plain melted butter or herb-infused oil as alternatives.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these rollups?

Marinara, garlic herb sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup all complement the cheesy garlic flavors, adding variety to each bite.

→ Can these rollups be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, cooking at 360°F (180°C) for 8–10 minutes with a flip halfway gives a crispy exterior in less time than the oven.