
These cheesy garlic butter rollups deliver crunch and gooey cheese in every bite. Perfect as an appetizer or an irresistible party snack they come out of the oven golden all over and ready for dipping. Whether you are prepping for game night or searching for an easy weeknight treat this recipe will quickly become your go to when you want something crowd pleasing and melty.
I whipped these up during a last minute gathering and everyone attacked the tray before I could set out dipping sauces. Even my picky eater asked if we could have them again the next day.
Ingredients
- White or whole wheat sandwich bread: Provides the base flattening ensures easy rolling. Go for day old bread for best results it holds shape well and does not get soggy easily.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly and gives that essential gooey stretch. Choose pre shredded for convenience or hand shred for extra freshness.
- Cheddar cheese: Adds tangy depth. Use sharp cheddar if you enjoy a stronger flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty boost opt for fresh grated for best flavor but omit if you prefer simple taste.
- Unsalted butter: Is the carrier for all the garlic flavor. Select high quality butter for a richer finish.
- Fresh garlic: Infuses the butter with flavor minced fine for even distribution.
- Garlic powder: Gives a rounded savory background taste.
- Parsley: Brings color and a fresh note. Fresh parsley is best but dried works in a pinch.
- Salt: Balances flavors and enhances the cheese.
- Optional dipping sauces: Finish the experience. Marinara garlic herb sauce and ranch are all crowd pleasers. Select based on your guests preferences or your own favorite combinations.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Oven:
- Set the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This keeps the rollups from sticking and guarantees crisp bottoms.
- Flatten the Bread:
- Lay the bread slices flat and use a rolling pin to press them out until thin and even. This step makes the bread pliable and helps seal each rollup without tearing.
- Fill and Roll:
- Scatter mozzarella and cheddar over one end of each bread slice then roll up tightly starting at the cheesy edge. Press the seam to close and brush with a touch of melted butter if you need help sealing.
- Mix the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl stir together melted butter minced garlic garlic powder parsley and salt until well blended. This mixture carries all the flavor and will coat every rollup.
- Bake the Rollups:
- Set seam side down on the baking sheet and brush generously with garlic butter. Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until deep golden and crispy. If you want to use an air fryer cook at three hundred sixty degrees Fahrenheit for eight to ten minutes flipping once so all sides crisp well.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let them cool briefly before serving with your chosen dipping sauces. This keeps fingers safe and lets the cheese set just enough for clean bites.

My absolute favorite part is watching the cheese pull apart when you bite in. The sharp cheddar gives each roll a nice tang that stands out against the garlicky butter. Last year my niece and nephew helped roll these up and ever since it has become a hands on family tradition.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover rollups in an airtight container lined with paper towels so they stay crisp. Refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat use an oven or air fryer for a few minutes at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit rather than microwaving so the bread stays crunchy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack if needed. Use vegan cheese and plant based butter for a dairy free version. Whole grain or gluten free sandwich bread works well just make sure it is soft and fresh for easy rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange on a large platter with a mix of dipping sauces such as warmed marinara ranch and garlic aioli. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for color. They pair beautifully with salad for a light lunch or make a fun side for soup.

Cultural and Historical Context
These rollups are an American twist on classic garlic bread meeting cheesy toast. Born out of the popularity of grilled cheese and garlic bread at parties they have become a beloved finger food at gatherings potlucks and kids events across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best for these rollups?
Soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread is ideal, as it flattens easily and seals well when rolled, keeping the cheese inside.
- → How can I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure not to overfill the bread and seal each rollup edge with a bit of melted butter. Place the seam-side down when baking for best results.
- → Is it possible to make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air frying at 360°F (180°C) for 8–10 minutes yields a crisp exterior. Flip the rollups halfway for even browning.
- → Can I prepare these rollups ahead of time?
You can assemble the rollups and refrigerate them, then bake just before serving. Brush with garlic butter right before baking for optimum crispiness.
- → What dipping sauces go well with these rollups?
Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic herb sauce, or spicy ketchup all complement the cheesy, buttery flavors nicely.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as they contain only dairy, no meat, and use ingredients generally suitable for vegetarian diets.