Cheesy Stuffed Dinner Rolls (Print Version)

Soft rolls filled with gooey cheese, baked until golden—an irresistible, comforting addition to any meal.

# Components:

→ Dough

01 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon salt
05 - 3/4 cup warm milk (approximately 110°F)
06 - 1/4 cup warm water
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
08 - 1 large egg

→ Filling

09 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
11 - 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional)
12 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

→ Topping

13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
14 - 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
15 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the surface becomes foamy.
02 - Stir melted unsalted butter, egg, and salt into the activated yeast mixture until thoroughly blended.
03 - Gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and allow to rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 hour, or until doubled in volume.
05 - Set oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - Deflate the risen dough and divide evenly into 12 pieces. Flatten each into a small circle.
07 - For the filling, combine shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and dried Italian herbs as desired. Place a generous tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Pinch the edges to seal and shape into a smooth ball.
08 - Arrange the filled dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.
09 - Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
10 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
11 - Allow rolls to cool slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses only basic pantry staples and easy-to-find cheeses
  • Delivers an irresistible cheese pull every time
  • Customizable with your favorite herbs or cheese blends
  • Can be prepared in advance and baked fresh before serving
02 -
  • These rolls are high in protein and calcium from all that cheese
  • They freeze beautifully after baking just re-warm in the oven for a fresh-baked taste
03 -
  • If the dough feels dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until soft and supple
  • Be generous with the filling but make sure to seal the dough tightly so cheese does not escape At the table, serve rolls fresh and warm for the ultimate gooey cheese experience