What type of bread works best?

Thin sliced white or whole wheat sandwich bread is ideal, as it rolls easily and gets crisp when baked.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, try provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors. Mix and match to your taste.

How do I keep the rollups sealed?

Seal the edges with a little melted butter and place seam-side down before baking to hold the shape.

Are air fryer instructions different?

Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for extra crispiness and quick results.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Marinara, garlic herb, ranch, or spicy ketchup all complement the cheesy garlic flavors perfectly.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups with Mozzarella

A delicious cheesy garlic butter rollup is served on a wooden platter. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Cheesy garlic butter rollups are my secret weapon for impromptu get-togethers or whenever I crave something utterly comforting and cheesy. With bread from the pantry, a handful of cheese, and plenty of garlicky butter, you get a golden crispy snack that tastes like a mashup of garlic bread and grilled cheese. These are truly addicting and disappear fast anytime I serve them warm with a good dipping sauce.

I have made these for family movie nights and they have become our must-have treat for any casual gathering. The smell of garlicky butter baking always brings everyone into the kitchen before they even come out of the oven.

Ingredients

White or whole wheat sandwich bread: soft texture works best for rolling and stays crisp
Shredded mozzarella cheese: gives classic stringy melt opt for low moisture for less sogginess
Shredded cheddar cheese: adds flavor punch and color look for sharp or medium
Grated Parmesan cheese: boosts savoriness and browns beautifully on top totally optional but great if you want more depth
Unsalted butter: lets you control salt levels go for fresh high-quality butter
Fresh garlic and garlic powder: both add lots of garlicky aroma and flavor the duo really delivers
Fresh parsley or dried parsley: adds color and a little herbal note always taste your parsley to check freshness
Salt: brings out all the flavors just a pinch is enough so taste and adjust
Optional sauces: like marinara ranch or spicy ketchup make every bite more fun

Instructions

Prep and Preheat:: Get your oven hot at 375F or 190C and line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat for easy cleanup
Flatten the Bread:: Use a rolling pin to squash each slice of bread gently until it is thin and even this helps the rollups stay nice and sealed and makes them crunchier
Add Cheese and Roll:: Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese across the lower third of each slice then start rolling tightly from the cheese edge up use a dab of melted butter along the seam if you need extra help sealing
Mix Garlic Butter:: In a bowl stir together melted butter minced garlic garlic powder parsley and salt until the aroma is irresistible
Arrange and Bake:: Place each rollup seam side down on the prepared sheet brush each one generously with garlic butter bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the rolls are golden and crisp for air fryer fans cook at 360F or 180C for 8 to 10 minutes flipping halfway for even browning
Serve and Enjoy:: Let the rollups cool briefly then serve while still warm with your favorite dipping sauce for best flavor

A wooden cutting board holds a delicious appetizer made from bread and cheese, with a side of marinara sauce. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Parmesan is my secret ingredient for leveling up both the crisp and flavor of the rolls. I remember making these with my nephew for his birthday party he loved rolling the bread and I could barely keep up with how fast the plate emptied.

Storage Tips

Once cool store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat place in a hot oven for a few minutes for crispness or use a toaster oven. The microwave works but the outside will not be as crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any melty cheese like pepper jack or gouda to change up the filling. Whole wheat or gluten free sandwich bread also works. For the herbs swap in fresh chives basil or even thyme if you love experimenting with flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These are best eaten hot right from the oven with sauces like warm marinara or ranch. I like to arrange them around a dipping bowl as a fun party platter. You can even slice them crosswise and stick with toothpicks for easy appetizers at gatherings.

Cultural or Historical Context

While garlic bread and grilled cheese are classic comfort foods around the world, these rollups are a super easy fusion that takes inspiration from both Italian American and diner cuisine. This recipe is a modern shortcut I came up with after craving garlic knots but wanting something much faster.

A stack of cheese-filled pastries, also known as calzones, are served with a side of marinara sauce. | myhomemaderecipe.com

These cheesy rollups are quick simple and so satisfyingly garlicky they have become my go-to for hungry crowds or whenever I want a treat from simple pantry goods.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of bread works best?: Thin sliced white or whole wheat sandwich bread is ideal, as it rolls easily and gets crisp when baked.
→ Can I use other cheeses?: Yes, try provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors. Mix and match to your taste.
→ How do I keep the rollups sealed?: Seal the edges with a little melted butter and place seam-side down before baking to hold the shape.
→ Are air fryer instructions different?: Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for extra crispiness and quick results.
→ What dipping sauces pair well?: Marinara, garlic herb, ranch, or spicy ketchup all complement the cheesy garlic flavors perfectly.