Cheesy, Pillowy, and Perfect for Sharing
There’s something incredibly comforting about freshly baked rolls—especially when they’re hiding a surprise inside. These Homemade Cheddar Cheese Rolls are pillowy-soft dinner rolls stuffed with gooey melted cheddar cheese and finished with a savory garlic-Parmesan topping.
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a potluck contribution, or simply want to level up your dinner table, this recipe delivers bakery-style flavor with a homemade touch. It makes 32 golden rolls, so they’re perfect for sharing… or hoarding (we won’t judge).
Why You’ll Love These Cheddar Cheese Rolls
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Stuffed with melty cheddar in every bite
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Fluffy, golden bread with a soft crumb
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Garlic butter finish makes them extra savory
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Great for freezing and reheating
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Perfect as a side dish, snack, or party appetizer
Ingredients
For the Dough
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7 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons rapid-rise yeast
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½ cup sugar
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2 teaspoons salt
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2½ cups whole milk
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½ cup butter
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2 large eggs
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1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
For the Topping
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¼ cup melted butter
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1 garlic clove, minced
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl, stir together 4 cups of flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Warm the Milk
In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Add the milk and heat until the mixture reaches 110–115°F (warm to the touch but not hot).
3. Make the Dough
Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Beat in the eggs until fully incorporated.
4. Add Remaining Flour
Gradually add the remaining flour, about 1 cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl but is still slightly tacky.
5. First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Rolls
Divide the dough into 32 equal pieces. Flatten each piece, place a cube of cheddar in the center, and pinch to seal tightly.
7. Second Rise
Place the shaped rolls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover lightly and let rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Prepare Garlic Butter
While the rolls are rising, melt ¼ cup butter in a small saucepan and stir in the minced garlic. In a separate small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
9. Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and fully baked.
10. Finish & Serve
Brush the hot rolls with garlic butter and sprinkle generously with the Parmesan-parsley mixture. Serve warm for the ultimate cheesy pull-apart experience!
Storage & Freezing Tips
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freeze: Fully baked rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Final Thoughts
These Cheddar Cheese Rolls bring together everything you love about soft dinner rolls with the indulgent surprise of melted cheddar at the center. They’re versatile, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to earn compliments at your next gathering. Whether served alongside a hearty soup, holiday roast, or simply as a cheesy snack, they’ll be devoured in no time.