Soft, fluffy rolls filled with fragrant basil pesto and gooey melted cheese — these are irresistible for breakfast, as a side, or even as a snack. They’re perfect served warm from the oven and make any meal instantly more special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buttery Soft Dough – Fluffy, tender rolls every time.

• Cheesy Goodness – Melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan in every bite.

• Pesto Flavor Burst – Fresh, herby basil pesto adds a gourmet touch.

• Perfect for Any Occasion – Brunch, dinner side, or party appetizer.

Ingredients

Dough

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup salted butter

• 2 tbsp honey or granulated sugar

• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast

• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

Pesto Filling

• 3/4 cup basil pesto, plus extra for brushing

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Fine sea salt

• Freshly cracked black pepper

Prep Time: 15 min
Rise Time: 35 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Total Time: 1 hr 10 min
Yield: 12 rolls

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base

In a small saucepan, heat the milk, butter, and honey over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture reaches 110°F. Cool slightly if it’s too hot.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a stand mixer with the dough hook, combine the warm milk mixture and yeast. Add 3 1/2 cups flour, eggs, and salt. Mix on medium-low until dough forms. Add up to 1/2 cup more flour if sticky. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.

Step 3: First Rest

Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Fill and Roll

Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread the pesto evenly, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with mozzarella, Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Roll up tightly from the long edge, pinch the seam to seal, trim the ends, and cut into 12 even rounds.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange the rounds in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 25 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Brush the warm rolls with extra pesto. Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and fragrant.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese Swap: Try provolone, fontina, or gouda for a twist.

• Extra Garlic: Mix a little minced garlic into the pesto for more punch.

• Make Ahead: Prepare rolls up to the second rise, refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

• Mini Rolls: Cut smaller rounds for bite-sized party snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, high-quality store-bought pesto works great. Homemade pesto will give you the freshest flavor.

Can these be frozen?

Yes, bake and cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat at 325°F until warmed through.

Can I make them without a stand mixer?

Absolutely, just knead the dough by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Pesto Rolls are the kind of recipe that disappears fast — the combination of soft bread, melty cheese, and herby pesto is simply irresistible. Whether you serve them as a side dish or the star of your brunch table, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.