Picture this: the kitchen is filled with the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread, mingling with the herbaceous notes of homemade pesto and the salty tang of feta cheese. That’s the magic that happens when you whip up these Savory Pesto Feta Rolls. After a long week of fast food and takeout, I craved something comforting yet impressive enough for a gathering with friends. That’s when this delightful recipe came to life—crafted from simple ingredients yet bursting with flavor.
With a golden, tender exterior and a gooey, cheesy filling, these rolls are not just food; they’re an experience. Each bite is a savory treat that combines rich Parmesan, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped in a pillowy dough. No matter the occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual potluck—you’ll find these Pesto Feta Rolls turning heads and satisfying appetites. Join me as we dive into this recipe that’s not only homemade but adaptable enough to cater to every taste preference!
Why are Pesto Feta Rolls a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: Picture your kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of warm bread and fresh herbs.
Flavor-packed filling: Stuffed with tangy feta, creamy mozzarella, and zesty pesto, each bite is a delight!
Easy to make: With simple ingredients, you’ll have homemade rolls that impress without the fuss.
Versatile options: Use store-bought dough for a quicker prep or try different cheeses for a unique twist.
These Pesto Feta Rolls are perfect for game days, brunch, or any gathering; they’re sure to be a hit at your next get-together!
Pesto Feta Rolls Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful rolls!
For the Dough
• Dough – Use homemade for the best flavor or opt for store-bought pizza dough to save time.
• Whole Milk (⅔ cup) – Activates the yeast and enriches the dough; warm it to 105°F-115°F for optimal results.
• Granulated Sugar (5 tablespoons) – Feeds the yeast for a better rise; divide it into parts for yeast blooming and dough mixing.
• Active Dry Yeast (2 teaspoons) – Ensures the dough rises; let it bloom in warm milk before combining with other ingredients.
• Large Eggs (2) – Adds moisture and richness; remember to use room temperature eggs for the best outcome.
• All-Purpose Flour (2¾ cups) – The structure of your rolls; you can add more if the dough feels too sticky.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup + ½ tablespoon) – Provides moisture and richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
For the Filling
• Pesto (1 jar, 6.5 ounces) – Brings a fresh, herby flavor; homemade is best but store-bought works too!
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated) – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the filling; feel free to substitute with a similar hard cheese.
• Feta Cheese (4 ounces, crumbled) – Adds a tangy creaminess; can be replaced with ricotta or queso fresco if desired.
• Fresh Spinach (1 cup, roughly chopped) – Offers nutrition and a pop of color; swap with other leafy greens if you prefer.
• Oil-Packed Sun-Dried Tomatoes (1 jar, 7 ounces) – Intensifies the flavor; if using dry-packed, soak them for 30 minutes before chopping.
• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Provides creamy richness; essential for that gooey factor in your rolls.
For the Garlic Butter Topping
• Melted Butter (3 tablespoons) – For brushing over the rolls before serving.
• Minced Garlic (1 teaspoon) – Infuses aromatic flavor into the topping.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon) – Seasoning to enhance the buttery flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 tablespoon) – A finishing touch that adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re just a few steps away from delicious Pesto Feta Rolls that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!
How to Make Pesto Feta Rolls
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Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, combine the warmed milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes before whisking in the eggs until smooth.
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Mix the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine the remaining sugar, flour, and salt. Pour in the milk mixture and gradually mix in the butter. Knead for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes soft; add more flour if it feels too sticky.
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First Rise: Transfer the dough to a buttered bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, which should take about 1 hour.
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Roll and Fill: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a 10×15 inch rectangle. Spread pesto over the dough and layer with Parmesan, feta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella before rolling tightly and cutting into 12 pieces.
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Second Rise: Place the cut rolls into a baking dish, cover them, and allow to rise until doubled, about 40 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and alluringly fragrant.
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Add Topping: Mix melted butter with minced garlic and salt in a small bowl. Brush the warm rolls with the garlic butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Optional: Serve with marinara sauce for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pesto Feta Rolls are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness even on the busiest days! You can prepare the dough as well as assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. After cutting the rolls, simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This method keeps the rolls fresh and prevents excess rising. When you’re ready to serve, let the rolls stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with the second rise and baking. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, cheesy rolls that taste just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Pesto Feta Rolls
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature to achieve the best texture in your dough. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activation.
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Check Yeast Activity: Always bloom your active dry yeast in warm milk before using it. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired, so avoid wasting ingredients on a failed dough!
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Adjust Flour as Needed: Depending on humidity, you may need to adjust the amount of flour to prevent sticky dough. Start with the recommended amount but add more gradually if required.
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Proper Rising Time: Allow enough time for both rises; this is crucial for soft and fluffy Pesto Feta Rolls. If the dough hasn’t doubled in size, it needs more time!
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Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor in your rolls, use fresh pesto and high-quality cheeses. Avoid pre-grated cheeses if possible, as they may contain anti-caking agents.
Feel confident in your kitchen as you prepare delightful Pesto Feta Rolls with these helpful tips!
What to Serve with Pesto Feta Rolls?
Discover the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your Pesto Feta Rolls to a delightful dining experience.
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Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, this tangy sauce provides a perfect dip for your savory rolls, enhancing their deliciousness.
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Garlic Herb Butter: Drizzled over or served alongside, this rich butter adds a wonderful garlic kick, amplifying the flavors of the pesto.
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Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls, making every bite enjoyable.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies brings color and earthy flavors, enriching your meal with fresh produce that complements the richness of the rolls.
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White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio sips refreshingly alongside your rolls, enhancing the herby notes in the pesto while cleansing the palate.
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Dessert Option: End your meal with a light lemon sorbet; its bright flavors will cleanse your palate and beautifully round out a delicious dinner!
Pair any of these suggestions with your freshly baked Pesto Feta Rolls for a meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Pesto Feta Rolls
Fridge: Keep your Pesto Feta Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy them again, reheat frozen rolls in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This helps restore their delightful texture.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can assemble the rolls a day ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and bake them fresh the next day for delicious convenience!
Pesto Feta Rolls Variations
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delicious twists on the classic recipe!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the mozzarella and feta with dairy-free cheese alternatives to enjoy an inclusive treat.
With a variety of vegan cheeses available today, you can easily achieve a delightful flavor profile. -
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Just remember to check the rising time, as gluten-free dough may behave differently during fermentation. -
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist.
This will complement the pesto filling beautifully, elevating the flavor experience! -
Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting heat element to the filling.
This variation will excite those who love a little spice in their bites! -
Veggie-Packed: Incorporate chopped veggies like bell peppers or zucchini into the filling for extra nutrition and texture.
Adding color and crunch will make your rolls even more visually appealing and wholesome! -
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Swap the traditional pesto for a sun-dried tomato pesto for a distinctive and bold taste.
This substitution brings a rich depth and a beautiful color to your rolls. -
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with a blend of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar and cream cheese, for a rich filling.
This unique combination will tantalize the taste buds and make each bite extra comforting! -
Savory Wild Mushroom: Create an earthy spin by adding sautéed mushrooms to the filling for a deep umami flavor.
These delightful bites will offer a delicious surprise in each roll!
Pesto Feta Rolls Recipe FAQs
How can I pick the best pesto for my Pesto Feta Rolls?
When choosing pesto, look for one with high-quality ingredients. If you’re making homemade pesto, use fresh basil, good olive oil, and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Store-bought options can work well too; just check for those without added preservatives.
What is the best way to store leftover Pesto Feta Rolls?
Store your Pesto Feta Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method preserves their soft texture and flavor, so you can enjoy them later. If the rolls are still warm, allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Can Pesto Feta Rolls be frozen?
Absolutely! To freeze your rolls, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they freeze solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake frozen rolls in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warm and gooey inside.
Why did my dough not rise properly?
There could be a few reasons your dough didn’t rise. Firstly, ensure your yeast is fresh; if it doesn’t foam after blooming, it might be expired. Also, the temperature of your ingredients plays a key role. Make sure your warm milk is around 105°F-115°F to effectively activate the yeast. If your kitchen is too cold, find a warmer spot for the dough to rise.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure to also add a binding agent, like xanthan gum, if your blend doesn’t already contain it. Adjust the liquid ingredients as needed to achieve a workable dough consistency.
Are Pesto Feta Rolls safe for my pet?
While flavors like basil and feta are safe in small amounts, it’s best to avoid giving pets bread products. The ingredients in bread and dairy can upset their stomachs. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about including any human food in your pet’s diet.
These Pesto Feta Rolls Recipe FAQs should help you achieve the most delicious results; happy baking!
Irresistible Pesto Feta Rolls That Will Wow Your Guests!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the warmed milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it bloom for about 5 minutes before whisking in the eggs until smooth.
- In a stand mixer, combine the remaining sugar, flour, and salt. Pour in the milk mixture and gradually mix in the butter. Knead for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes soft; add more flour if it feels too sticky.
- Transfer the dough to a buttered bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, which should take about 1 hour.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a 10x15 inch rectangle. Spread pesto over the dough and layer with Parmesan, feta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella before rolling tightly and cutting into 12 pieces.
- Place the cut rolls into a baking dish, cover them, and allow to rise until doubled, about 40 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and alluringly fragrant.
- Mix melted butter with minced garlic and salt in a small bowl. Brush the warm rolls with the garlic butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
