These warm, golden rolls are filled with gooey melted cheese and a hint of savory flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack!
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 105-115°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- For the Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works well)
- 2 tablespoons softened butter.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 tablespoon melted butter.
- Sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle of dried parsley.
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, beaten egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the flour.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheese, softened butter, garlic powder, oregano(if used), and black pepper.
- Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12-16 equal portions.
- Fill the Rolls: Flatten each portion of dough into a small circle. Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center. Pinch the edges together to seal, and roll it into a smooth ball.
- Second Rise: Place the filled rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, seam-side down. Cover with a clean cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter (if using) and sprinkle with parmesan cheese and parsley (if using).
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add cooked crumbled bacon or chopped jalapenos to the cheese filling.
- Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or provolone.
- Brush with garlic butter after baking.
- For a sweeter roll, lightly dust with powdered sugar after slightly cooling.
- For a crispy top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.