Sandwich Crust Garlic Rolls

This genius recipe transforms those often-discarded sandwich crusts into irresistible garlic rolls your family will beg for. The buttery, cheesy, garlic-infused bread spirals turn what most people throw away into a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with soups, pasta, or enjoyed on their own.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly tight grocery week when I was determined not to waste anything. My children who normally peel crusts off their sandwiches now ask me to save them specifically for these rolls.

• Sandwich bread crusts: From one loaf. The heartier and more substantial your bread, the better these will hold their shape
• Melted butter: Gives these rolls their rich mouthfeel and helps create that gorgeous golden exterior
• Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth. Fresh grated melts better than pre packaged
• Fresh garlic cloves: Deliver aromatic punch. Mince them finely for even distribution
• Italian seasoning: Creates that classic garlic bread flavor profile. Use a quality blend with oregano, basil and thyme
• Salt: Enhances all other flavors. Kosher salt works beautifully here
• Black pepper: Adds subtle heat. Freshly ground gives the best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Oven:

Heat your oven to 350°F. This moderate temperature ensures the rolls get crispy without burning the garlic. Take a moment to thoroughly grease your muffin tin with butter, ensuring every surface is coated to prevent sticking.

Create The Flavor Base:

Combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until fully incorporated. This mixture should be aromatic and well blended to ensure even flavor distribution throughout your rolls.

Form Your Rolls:

Take each bread crust and gently roll it into a spiral shape, similar to a cinnamon roll. The crust should hold its shape naturally. Place each spiral into the greased muffin tin cavities, adjusting as needed to fit properly.

Compress The Spirals:

Use the bottom of a drinking glass or the back of a spoon to gently press down on each spiral. This crucial step helps the bread maintain its shape during baking and creates a more cohesive final product.

Apply The Butter Mixture:

Spoon your prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over each roll, making sure to get some of the minced garlic and herbs onto each one. The butter will seep into the bread as it bakes, flavoring it throughout.

Bake To Golden Perfection:

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. Watch carefully during the final minutes as the garlic can quickly go from golden to burnt. The tops should be lightly golden and crisp.

Serve Immediately:

These rolls are best enjoyed warm from the oven when the butter is still melty and the edges are perfectly crisp. Transfer to a serving plate and watch them disappear.

The garlic is truly the star ingredient here. I learned from my Italian grandmother that allowing minced garlic to sit in the melted butter for a few minutes before using intensifies its flavor without the harshness that can come from raw garlic. One memorable Sunday dinner, my normally picky nephew ate seven of these rolls and asked if he could take the leftovers home.

Storage Solutions

These garlic rolls stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes or 30 seconds in the microwave. They actually freeze exceptionally well too. Place cooled rolls in a freezer bag, remove excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.

Creative Variations

While the classic garlic Parmesan version is delicious, these versatile rolls welcome many flavor variations. Try cinnamon sugar with a touch of vanilla for a sweet version. Or experiment with different cheese combinations like cheddar and herbs for a more savory profile. You can even add finely chopped sun dried tomatoes or pesto to the butter mixture for Mediterranean flair. The basic technique remains the same no matter what flavor direction you choose.

Perfect Pairings

These savory rolls complement almost any meal but truly shine alongside tomato based pasta dishes where they can soak up extra sauce. They make an elegant addition to a soup and salad lunch, elevating simple fare to something special. For appetizers, serve them with a side of marinara or alfredo sauce for dipping. They also make wonderful sandwich halves for sliders when split horizontally.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh bread instead of crusts?

Yes, you can use fresh bread, but crusts provide a firmer texture and hold the spiral shape better.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use grated Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or any hard cheese with a similar salty flavor profile.

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving. Best served fresh and warm!

→ What other seasonings can I use?

You can experiment with dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to customize the flavor to your liking.

→ Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat in the oven until warm and crispy.