Description
This Cheesy Garlic Monkey Bread is a deliciously savory pull-apart bread perfect for sharing. Made with frozen dinner rolls dipped in garlic butter and topped with mozzarella cheese, it bakes up golden, bubbly, and irresistible. The combination of garlic, butter, and melty cheese creates a comforting appetizer or snack that pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Rolls and Butter Mixture
- 20 Rhodes Frozen Dinner Rolls
- 6 to 8 Tablespoons Salted Butter (melted)
- 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian Parsley (optional)
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: Melt the salted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and, if using, dried Italian parsley to create a flavorful garlic butter mixture.
- Dip the Rolls: Coat each frozen dinner roll thoroughly by dipping it into the melted garlic butter. This step ensures each roll is infused with buttery garlic flavor and helps develop a crispy and golden exterior when baked.
- Arrange in a Circular Pattern: Spray your chosen baking pan (such as a pizza stone, cast iron skillet, or baking sheet) with non-stick cooking spray. Place the buttered rolls closely together in two circular rows so they will rise vertically, allowing for even baking and easy pull-apart serving.
- Let the Rolls Rise: Cover the arranged rolls with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and leave them in a warm spot to rise until doubled in size. This usually takes about 2 to 3 hours at room temperature, or approximately 90 minutes in a warmer environment.
- Add the Cheese: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the risen rolls, covering them evenly. Optionally, add red pepper flakes on top for a subtle spicy kick.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Bake the monkey bread for 18 to 24 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown and the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. Monitor carefully to prevent over-browning.
- Serve with Marinara Sauce: Allow the monkey bread to cool slightly, then serve warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the savory garlic and cheesy flavors.
Notes
- For best results, use frozen Rhodes dinner rolls straight from the freezer without thawing before dipping.
- You can adjust garlic amount to taste or substitute fresh parsley if preferred.
- Ensure rolls are close but not too tight in the baking pan to allow proper rising and baking.
- If you like spice, increase red pepper flakes or serve with spicy marinara sauce.
- This monkey bread is delicious served warm and fresh but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American