It is 6pm and your hungry family is craving something warm and comforting. You need a snack that is fast, fun, and totally delicious for everyone.
These Cheesy Garlic Butter Rollups are the perfect solution for busy winter nights. They deliver golden crusts and melty cheese centers in less than thirty minutes. You are going to love how easy these are to pull together.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy parents and beginner cooks. It uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen right now. These rollups are perfect for winter potlucks or a cozy movie night at home.
The combination of warm garlic and melted mozzarella is always a huge crowd-pleaser. You get a restaurant-quality snack without the high price tag or long wait. Your kids will definitely ask for seconds of these golden treats.
Simple Cooking Method
Making these rollups is as easy as rolling up a sleeping bag. You just wrap the dough around the cheese and pinch the ends shut firmly. Even if you are new to baking, you can master this simple technique. The garlic butter adds a beautiful golden finish that looks professional every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These rollups rely on simple pantry staples and refrigerated dough for ultimate convenience.
- 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 8 sticks low-moisture mozzarella string cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the convection oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a heavy-gauge baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean, lightly floured work surface.
- Divide into 8 equal-sized rectangles using a bench scraper or pizza cutter.
- Position one mozzarella cheese stick at the short end of each dough rectangle.
- Roll the dough tightly around the cheese and pinch the edges and seams firmly.
- Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
- Arrange the rollups on the prepared baking sheet with the seam-side facing down.
- Apply the garlic butter mixture to the surface of each rollup using a pastry brush.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the exterior reaches a deep golden-brown color.
- Remove from heat and immediately top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Rest for 120 seconds to allow the internal cheese to set slightly before service.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these rollups while they are still warm and stretchy for the best experience. They pair perfectly with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. You can also serve them alongside a fresh garden salad for a light lunch. They are ideal for game day gatherings or as a kid-approved after-school snack.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftover rollups in an airtight container in the fridge for three days. To get that signature crunch back, reheat them in the oven at 350°F. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the dough feel a bit chewy. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls for an easy make-ahead snack later. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.
Recipe Tips for Best Results
- Pinch the dough seams very hard to keep the cheese from leaking out.
- Use fresh garlic instead of powder for the most vibrant savory flavor.
- Do not skip the parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup after baking.
- Let the rolls rest for two minutes so the cheese does not burn you.
- Double the recipe for a holiday party because they will disappear fast.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Make sure your pizza dough is cold when you start for easier handling.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add a slice of pepperoni inside with the cheese for a pizza twist.
- Use pepper jack cheese sticks for a spicy kick your friends will love.
- Swap the parsley for fresh basil for a bright herbal finish.
- Brush with honey butter instead of garlic for a sweet and salty treat.
Common Questions
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, you can definitely use your favorite homemade dough recipe. Just make sure to roll it thin so it cooks evenly with the cheese. It might take a few extra minutes in the oven.
Will my kids actually eat the parsley?
Most kids do not mind it when it is mixed with the butter and cheese. If you have very picky eaters, you can leave the green bits off. They will still love the buttery garlic flavor.
How do I know when they are done?
Look for a deep golden-brown color on the top and bottom of the dough. The cheese should be soft but not completely flowing out of the sides. Ten to twelve minutes is usually the sweet spot for baking.
I hope these cheesy rollups bring a little extra warmth to your winter table. They are so simple to make and always bring a smile to everyone’s face. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 8 sticks low -moisture mozzarella string cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic , finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the convection oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a heavy-gauge baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean, lightly floured work surface and divide into 8 equal-sized rectangles using a bench scraper or pizza cutter.
- Position one mozzarella cheese stick at the short end of each dough rectangle.
- Roll the dough tightly around the cheese, ensuring the lateral edges and longitudinal seams are pinched firmly to prevent cheese leakage during thermal expansion.
- Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried Italian seasoning in a small bowl; whisk until emulsified.
- Arrange the rollups on the prepared baking sheet with the seam-side facing down, spaced at least 2 inches apart.
- Apply the garlic butter mixture to the surface of each rollup using a pastry brush.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the internal dough is cooked and the exterior reaches a deep golden-brown color.
- Remove from heat and immediately top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese while the surface fat is still liquid.
- Rest for 120 seconds to allow the internal cheese to set slightly before service.
