If you’ve ever been on the hunt for the perfect soft, buttery roll with a fragrant herb twist, I’m about to introduce you to your new favorite. The Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe is one of those magical recipes that transforms simple frozen rolls into something wonderfully irresistible with just a few extra steps. I love this because it feels both comforting and gourmet without any complicated techniques. Stick with me, and you’ll have those golden, aromatic rolls gracing your table in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Upgrade: Turns frozen rolls into fresh-baked delights with herby buttery goodness.
- Irresistibly Aromatic: The mix of rosemary, oregano, and thyme gives these rolls a cozy, mouth-watering scent.
- Perfectly Soft & Fluffy: Thanks to the slow rise, your rolls come out light and pillowy every time.
- Family Favorite: My crew goes nuts for these rolls at every dinner party and holiday meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe uses simple ingredients that you might already have on hand, but combining them makes all the difference. The dried herbs infuse the melted butter with flavor, which then lovingly coats each roll, elevating basic frozen rolls into a show-stopping side.
- Salted Butter: Using salted butter adds depth and keeps the rolls rich and flavorful — plus it helps with the seasoning.
- Dried Rosemary: Fresh or dried rosemary works, but dried crushed rosemary releases its flavors beautifully in the butter.
- Dried Oregano: This herb pairs perfectly with rosemary and thyme to create that classic, herby aroma I adore.
- Dried Thyme: Adds a gentle earthiness that rounds out the blend and complements the garlic.
- Garlic Cloves: Minced fresh garlic is crucial — it imparts a vibrant punch without being overpowering.
- Frozen Dinner Rolls: These are the base for the recipe — you’ll want good quality frozen dinner rolls that thaw, rise, and bake well.
- Flaky Salt: A sprinkle on top adds a perfect finishing touch with a burst of crunchy saltiness.
Variations
I like to keep this Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe classic, but I’ve also experimented with a few tweaks depending on the season or what mood I’m in. Don’t be afraid to make it your own — that’s part of the joy!
- Cheesy Twist: My family goes wild when I sprinkle shredded Parmesan or mozzarella over the rolls before baking — instant upgrade!
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter brings a subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- Fresh Herb Swap: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them instead of dried — just double the quantity for the best flavor.
- Garlic-Free: For those sensitive to garlic, substituting with minced shallots or leeks adds a mild aromatic note without overpowering.
How to Make Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Infuse the Butter with Herbs and Garlic
Start by gently melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Toss in the dried rosemary, oregano, thyme, and minced garlic, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter melts completely and fills your kitchen with that irresistible herby aroma — this step really sets the tone for the entire recipe. Just be careful not to let the garlic brown or burn; keeping the heat low is key to extracting flavor without bitterness.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
While your butter is infusing, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish liberally with butter. This not only prevents sticking but adds another layer of buttery goodness to the bottoms of your rolls. You can use a teaspoon or two or just swipe a buttered paper towel over the surface — whatever feels easiest for you.
Step 3: Coat and Arrange the Rolls
Working one roll at a time, dip each frozen roll into the herbed butter mixture, making sure it’s nicely coated on all sides. As you place them in the baking dish, leave about 1½ inches of space between them because they’ll expand while they rise. This part is where the magic begins — I love seeing the rolls puff up after a few hours.
Step 4: Let the Rolls Rise
Now for some patience — let the rolls rise at room temperature for 4 to 5 hours, or until they double in size. This slow rise makes all the difference in texture. I usually cover the dish with a clean kitchen towel to keep out any drafts but still allow air circulation. It’s tempting to rush, but trust me, this step is worth the wait!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re beautifully golden on top. Keep an eye toward the end — everyone’s oven can be a little different, and you want them perfectly baked but not overdone.
Step 6: Brush with Butter and Sprinkle Salt
Right when the rolls come out of the oven, melt the remaining butter in a microwave or on the stovetop, then brush it over the warm rolls with a pastry brush. The finishing sprinkle of flaky salt adds a delightful crunch and balances the richness — this little trick always makes them feel extra special. Serve them warm and watch everyone dig in eagerly!
Pro Tips for Making Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe
- Low Heat is Essential: Keep your butter on low heat while infusing herbs and garlic to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Room Temperature Rising: Allow the rolls to rise in a cozy spot without drafts for the best fluffiness and texture.
- Use Flaky Salt, Not Table Salt: The texture and flavor of flaky salt on top make a huge difference; it adds crunch and a burst of flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Rise: Trust me, skipping or shortening the rise time results in denser rolls — patience pays off!
How to Serve Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep garnishes simple for these rolls. A tiny pat of softened herb butter on each roll right after baking makes them extra dreamy, and for a bit of fresh color, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives does wonders. These little touches brighten up the presentation without overpowering the herb butter’s lovely flavors.
Side Dishes
These Herby Rhodes Rolls pair beautifully with hearty meals — think slow-cooked stews, roasted chicken, or even a big salad for a lighter lunch. I’ve also served them alongside creamy soups like tomato bisque or butternut squash, and they soak up the broth so well! They’re my go-to roll when I want a classic dinner that impresses but isn’t fussy.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a pretty platter with small herb butter bowls on the side for guests to spoon onto their rolls. Sometimes, I weave in fresh herb sprigs for an added rustic charm. These little details make a simple bread feel like a centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh rolls, wrap leftovers tightly in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container. I find that refrigerated rolls stay good for up to 3 days, though you definitely want to reheat before enjoying again to bring back softness.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked coated rolls by placing them in an airtight freezer bag after the butter coating and initial arrangement. When you’re ready, thaw and allow them to rise before baking as usual. This trick has saved me many times when I want fresh rolls without starting from scratch.
Reheating
To reheat rolls, unwrap and warm them wrapped in foil at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of water inside the foil keeps them moist. Then, I like to brush a bit of extra melted herb butter on top before serving. It revives that fresh-baked magic every time.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can be used, but you’ll want to increase the quantity since fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried. Generally, double the amount of fresh herbs to get the same robust flavor. Chop them finely for better infusion and add them to the melted butter just before brushing the rolls.
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How long do the rolls need to rise at room temperature?
For this recipe, it’s best to let the coated frozen rolls rise 4 to 5 hours until they double in size. The slow rise creates a soft, airy texture that makes the difference between good and amazing rolls.
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Can I skip the herb butter coating?
You could bake frozen rolls plain, but the herb butter coating is what makes this recipe stand out with flavor and aroma. Skipping it would mean missing out on that beautiful golden crust and fragrant bite everyone loves.
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What if I don’t have flaky salt for topping?
If you don’t have flaky salt, you can use kosher salt as an alternative, but sprinkle sparingly as it’s more dense. Flaky salt provides a delicate crunch and bursts of flavor that really elevate the rolls after baking.
Final Thoughts
I honestly love how the Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe takes humble frozen rolls and turns them into something that tastes like they were made from scratch with love and care. The aroma alone is enough to pull everyone into the kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special holiday spread, these rolls always earn rave reviews. Give this recipe a try — I promise you’ll be reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds!
Print
Herby Rhodes Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 rolls
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously soft and aromatic Herby Rhodes Rolls coated in a fragrant blend of butter and herbs. These thawed frozen rolls are infused with rosemary, oregano, thyme, and garlic, baked to a golden perfection, and finished with flaky salt for a flavorful homemade bread experience.
Ingredients
Herb Butter
- 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks), plus more for greasing
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
Rolls
- 20 frozen dinner rolls (thaw, rise, and bake as per package instructions)
- Flaky salt, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Herb Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the salted butter over low heat. Add crushed dried rosemary, oregano, thyme, and minced garlic. Cook gently until the butter is melted and the herbs become fragrant. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a bowl to cool slightly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Coat Rolls: Take one frozen roll at a time and roll it in the prepared herb butter, ensuring it is fully coated. Place each buttered roll about 1½ inches apart in the baking dish.
- Let Rolls Rise: Let the coated rolls rise at room temperature for 4 to 5 hours or until they have doubled in size, allowing them to become light and fluffy.
- Preheat Oven: When the rolls have sufficiently risen, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top.
- Brush with Butter and Garnish: Remove rolls from the oven. Melt any remaining butter in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Brush the warm rolls generously with the melted herb butter and sprinkle flaky salt on top.
- Serve Warm: Serve the herby rolls warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To speed up rising time, place the rolls in a warm, draft-free spot.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried herbs if preferred but adjust quantities to taste.
- If you want a less garlicky flavor, reduce the minced garlic to 3 cloves.
- Herb butter can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; warm before using.
- Use unsalted butter if you prefer to control the salt content better.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
