Savory Mozzarella Garlic Rolls Recipe
Soft, tender rolls layered with gooey mozzarella, tangy parmesan, parsley, garlic and butter. Serve with pasta sauce for the ultimate Savory Mozzarella Garlic Roll appetizer or alongside your favorite Italian meal.

How to Make the Best Savory Mozzarella Garlic Rolls
These savory mozzarella garlic rolls are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Soft and tender with a long, slow rise that develops incredible flavor, they’re filled with stretchy mozzarella, sharp parmesan, and aromatic garlic that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
What makes these rolls special is the combination of two cheeses—the mozzarella provides that classic gooey quality while the parmesan adds a sharp, savory depth. The minced garlic and fresh parsley round out the flavors perfectly, making them ideal as an appetizer alongside marinara sauce or as part of an Italian dinner spread.
The long preparation time is mostly hands-off rising, so while you’re waiting for the dough to rise, you’re free to prep other dishes or simply relax. Once assembled and baked, these rolls will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of butter, garlic, and melted cheese that’s sure to get everyone excited for the meal ahead.

Savory Mozzarella Garlic Rolls
Soft, tender rolls layered with gooey mozzarella, tangy parmesan, parsley, garlic and butter. Serve with pasta sauce for the ultimate Savory Mozzarella Garlic Roll appetizer or alongside your favorite Italian meal.
Ingredients
Dough
Filling
Instructions
Dough
- Heat milk and water to 110°F (warm to the touch). In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk mixture, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add butter, egg yolk, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Grease a bowl with butter and place dough inside, turning to coat all sides.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 8-9 hours or overnight until doubled in size.
Assembly
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and turn out onto a floured surface.
- Roll dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Brush with melted butter.
- In a small bowl, combine mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, and parsley. Spread evenly over buttered dough.
- Starting from the long side, roll dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls.
- Place rolls cut-side up in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Brush with remaining melted butter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Serve warm with pasta sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh grated mozzarella cheese rather than pre-shredded.
- Parsley paste can be made by finely mincing fresh parsley and mixing with a little olive oil.
- These rolls freeze well—prepare through step 4, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Recipe from Lauren at Hunger Thirst Play