Garlic Swirl Rolls
Garlic Swirl Rolls have become a beloved staple in our home, and not just because they’re pretty to look at. There’s something magical about the smell of buttery garlic wafting through the kitchen that immediately brings everyone running. I first made these on a whim when we had leftover pizza dough and a craving for something warm and savory. What came out of the oven was nothing short of spectacular—a golden, spiraled roll with crispy edges, a soft, fluffy center, and a rich, garlicky aroma that made it nearly impossible to wait for them to cool.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is, yet how impressive it looks when served. It’s the kind of dish that makes guests think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen when in reality, it’s a quick 45-minute fix. These rolls pair beautifully with pasta, soup, or even as a snack on their own. My kids devour them like candy, and my husband swears they’re better than anything we’ve ordered out.
I’ve tweaked this recipe over time—adding more garlic (of course), using fresh herbs when I have them, and occasionally stuffing a little cheese inside for an extra surprise. Every time I bake a batch, I’m reminded why this one’s a keeper. If you’re looking for something that’s both cozy and crowd-pleasing, these Garlic Swirl Rolls are your new go-to.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and cuts down on prep time.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just let them come to room temperature before baking.
Do I need a muffin tin to make these?
While not essential, a muffin tin helps the rolls keep their shape and gives them those crisp edges. You can also bake them free-form on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Bake, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until warm and crisp.
What cheese works best if I want to add some?
Mozzarella or parmesan melts well and complements the garlic butter beautifully.
What You Need to Make Garlic Swirl Rolls
1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing muffin tin)
Special Equipment:
Rolling pin
Muffin tin or baking sheet
Pastry brush
How to Make Garlic Swirl Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick on a floured surface.
Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough, reserving a small amount for brushing on top later.
Sprinkle with parsley and parmesan, if using.
Starting on the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice into 1½-inch pieces.
Place each piece cut-side up in the muffin tin or on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with remaining garlic butter.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cool for a few minutes, then carefully remove from the tin and serve warm.
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Swirl Rolls
Let your dough rest at room temperature before rolling to make it easier to work with.
Use fresh garlic for the boldest flavor—pre-minced just isn’t the same.
Don’t overbake—you want the centers soft and the edges golden.
Double the batch if you’re feeding a crowd. They go fast!
Try different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a flavor twist.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These are heavenly! I made them for pasta night and they were gone in minutes. My husband asked me to make a double batch next time!” —Tina R.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great flavor and super easy. I added mozzarella to a few and they were melty perfection. Will try cheddar next time!” —Laura M.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for dipping in soup or eating straight from the pan (which I may or may not have done). They’re a new favorite!” —Jason K.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “They were good but I wish I’d used less garlic—my kids thought it was a little strong. Will adjust next time!” —Beth A.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made these for a bake sale and they were the first thing to sell out. So fluffy and full of flavor!” —Nicole G.
Printable Recipe
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Garlic Swirl Rolls
These Garlic Swirl Rolls are golden, garlicky spirals of soft dough brushed with herb-infused butter and baked until perfectly crisp on the edges and fluffy in the middle. Perfect for pairing with pasta, soup, or enjoying as a snack, they’re a quick 45-minute recipe that’s as impressive as it is easy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing muffin tin)
- Special Equipment:
- Rolling pin
- Muffin tin or baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick on a floured surface.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough, reserving a small amount for brushing on top later.
- Sprinkle with parsley and parmesan, if using.
- Starting on the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice into 1½-inch pieces.
- Place each piece cut-side up in the muffin tin or on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with remaining garlic butter.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool for a few minutes, then carefully remove from the tin and serve warm.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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