Irresistible Parker House Rolls Recipe with Garlic Butter

The smell of freshly baked Parker House rolls wafting through the kitchen is pure magic. Soft, buttery, and golden-brown, these rolls are the ultimate comfort food. But what truly sets them apart is the irresistible garlic butter that takes them to a whole new level. If you’re looking for a foolproof recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or just a cozy weeknight treat, you’re in for a real treat. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and trust me—these rolls never disappoint!

My love for Parker House rolls started as a kid during Thanksgiving dinners when my grandma would whip up batches of these pillowy beauties. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it easier, tastier, and just a little extra fancy with the addition of garlic butter. Whether it’s the soft texture or the garlicky aroma, these rolls are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy: These Parker House rolls are the definition of melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
• Garlic Butter Twist: The addition of garlic butter gives these classic rolls an irresistible savory flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast, a family dinner, or just a carb-loving moment, these rolls fit the bill.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the dough ahead of time and bake when ready, making them ideal for busy schedules.
• Kid and Guest Approved: Everyone loves these rolls—they’re always the first thing to disappear at the table.

What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of richness and flavor. The dough is soft and buttery, while the garlic butter adds a savory, aromatic touch that takes these rolls from ordinary to unforgettable. They’re perfect for impressing your guests without stressing over complicated techniques. Honestly, this recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves bread but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create magic. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of soft and fluffy rolls.
• Active Dry Yeast: Helps the rolls rise to perfection. Ensure it’s fresh!
• Granulated Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Salt: For seasoning and enhancing the overall taste.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened for the dough and melted for brushing (buttery goodness!).
• Whole Milk: Warmed to activate the yeast and add richness.
• Egg: Adds structure and a tender crumb.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for the garlic butter.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish and a pop of color.

If you’re missing any of these, don’t worry—there are substitutions! Swap whole milk for almond milk if needed, or use salted butter and skip the extra salt. For gluten-free, you can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools for this recipe, just a few basics:

• Mixing Bowls: One for the dough and another for proofing.
• Stand Mixer: Optional, but it makes kneading a breeze.
• Rolling Pin: For shaping the dough into perfect rectangles.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch pan works perfectly for these rolls.
• Pastry Brush: To slather on that heavenly garlic butter.

If you don’t have a stand mixer, don’t sweat it. You can knead the dough by hand for about 8-10 minutes—it’s a great arm workout! And if you don’t have a pastry brush, use a spoon or your fingers to spread the butter evenly.

Preparation Method

1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk to 110°F (43°C) and stir in the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
4. Proof: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12×15 inches). Cut into 24 even pieces, fold each piece in half, and place them in a greased baking dish.
6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Make the Garlic Butter: While the rolls bake, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic and parsley.
9. Brush and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, brush them generously with garlic butter. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro tip: If your dough feels sticky during kneading, sprinkle a little extra flour—but don’t overdo it, or your rolls may turn out dense.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Warm Liquid is Key: Make sure your milk is warm (not hot!) to activate the yeast properly.
• Don’t Rush the Rise: Letting the dough rise fully ensures soft and fluffy rolls.
• Butter is Your Best Friend: Generously brush the rolls with melted butter before and after baking for maximum flavor.
• Garlic Butter Hack: Make the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge—it’s great for rolls and other dishes!
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking time and results.

One of my favorite tricks is to place the dough near the oven while preheating—it creates a warm environment that speeds up the proofing process. And don’t skimp on the garlic butter—it’s worth every calorie!

Variations & Adaptations

• Cheesy Rolls: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan inside the rolls for a cheesy twist.
• Herbed Butter: Swap parsley for rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may be slightly denser.
• Sweet Rolls: Skip the garlic butter and brush with honey butter instead for a sweeter version.

I’ve also tried adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the rolls before baking—it’s a game-changer if you love savory flavors!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Parker House rolls are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Pair them with hearty soups, stews, or roasted meats for a complete meal. For drinks, a glass of red wine or a warm cider complements their buttery richness perfectly.

To store leftovers, keep the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

Pro tip: The garlic butter flavor deepens over time, so reheated rolls are still incredibly delicious!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

• Calories: Approximately 150 per roll
• Protein: Around 4g per roll
• Carbs: Roughly 22g per roll
• Key Benefits: The garlic provides antioxidants, while the butter adds essential fats for energy.

These rolls are indulgent but worth it. If you’re watching carbs, enjoy them in moderation or pair them with plenty of veggies for balance.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s equal parts comforting and impressive, these Parker House rolls with garlic butter are your answer. They’re versatile, easy to customize, and irresistibly delicious. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and honestly, they’re my favorite part of any meal.

I’d love to hear how your rolls turn out! Let me know in the comments or share your own variations. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe—and trust me, once you try it, you’ll make it again and again.

Happy baking, friends!

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! You can substitute instant yeast directly, skipping the activation step. Mix it with the dry ingredients.

Can I make the rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Shape and bake the next day.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Check your yeast—if it’s old or expired, it won’t activate properly. Also, ensure your milk isn’t too hot.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic offers a more robust flavor. Use 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder per clove as a substitution.

Do I need to grease the baking dish?

Yes, lightly greasing the dish prevents the rolls from sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.

Print