Brown & serve rolls—those golden-brown, subtly sweet orbs of baked goodness—are a pantry staple for many. But their versatility extends far beyond simply being a side to dinner. With a little creativity, these humble rolls can become the star of the show in a variety of delicious dishes, from savory appetizers to decadent desserts. Let's explore some exciting recipes that transform these everyday rolls into culinary masterpieces.
Savory Sensations: Beyond the Dinner Plate
Brown & serve rolls are surprisingly adaptable to savory applications. Their slightly sweet flavor provides a lovely counterpoint to bolder, savory ingredients.
1. Mini Sausage & Cheese Rolls:
This appetizer is perfect for game day or any casual gathering.
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Ingredients:
- 8 brown & serve rolls, split
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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Instructions:
- Mix cooked sausage, cheese, green onions, and Dijon mustard.
- Spoon the mixture into each roll half.
- Top with the other roll half and bake according to package directions.
2. Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread:
This crowd-pleasing dish is guaranteed to disappear quickly.
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Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 count) brown & serve rolls
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions:
- Cut the rolls into individual pieces, leaving some slightly attached for a pull-apart effect.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the rolls, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Bake according to package directions or until golden brown and heated through.
3. Savory Bread Pudding:
Turn leftover rolls into a comforting and hearty meal.
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Ingredients:
- 6 brown & serve rolls, cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cubed rolls, broth, cheese, bacon, and onion.
- Stir in the beaten eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until set and golden brown.
Sweet Indulgences: Dessert Delights
Brown & serve rolls aren't just for savory dishes; their subtly sweet flavor lends itself beautifully to desserts.
1. Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce:
A classic comfort dessert elevated with brown & serve rolls.
- Ingredients: (This requires a more detailed recipe that is beyond the scope of this section, but readily available online by searching for "brown & serve roll bread pudding with caramel sauce")
2. French Toast Casserole:
A make-ahead breakfast or brunch masterpiece.
- Ingredients: (Similar to the bread pudding, a full recipe is best found with a dedicated search for "brown & serve roll French toast casserole.")
Tips & Tricks for Roll Success
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure rolls have enough space to bake evenly.
- Adjust baking time: Depending on your oven and the specific roll brand, you may need to adjust baking time slightly. Always check for doneness.
- Get creative with fillings: Experiment with different cheeses, meats, herbs, and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
With a little imagination, brown & serve rolls can become the foundation for an impressive array of culinary creations. So, ditch the plain side dish and embrace the versatility of these everyday rolls!
