Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Bread Rolls Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed about soft, pull-apart bread oozing with melty cheese and flecked with vibrant greens, these Homemade Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Rolls are the treat you’ve been waiting for! With a fluffy, buttery dough wrapped around a creamy, savory spinach and mozzarella filling, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something irresistibly special—perfect for cozy weekend baking or a show-stopping side at your next gathering!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list—the beauty of these rolls is that every component is accessible and plays a starring role! The bread dough is delightfully simple, the spinach-mozzarella filling brings major flavor, and every ingredient helps create the signature pillowy-soft, cheesy, and satisfying bite.

• Bread Flour: Gives the rolls that extra fluff and soft chew; you can use all-purpose flour in a pinch, but bread flour is classic for bakery-style results.
• Active Dry or Instant Yeast: For that essential rise—activate it in warm milk for a beautiful, airy crumb.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness, making the bread extra tender and lightly sweet.
• Sugar: Just a touch to feed the yeast and ever-so-slightly sweeten the bread.
• Egg: Binds the dough, makes it richer, and adds that golden color.
• Butter (plus extra for brushing): Melted into the dough for flavor and softness, and brushed on after baking for extra indulgent shine.
• Salt: Essential to balance flavors and enhance the dough’s taste.
• Spinach: Brings vibrant green color and savory, earthy flavor—use fresh and chop it finely, or thaw frozen spinach for convenience.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For maximum gooey melty goodness in every bite! Grate it finely so it melts into the filling.
• Dried Herbs (like oregano or Italian seasoning): Lifts the flavor of the filling and pairs so perfectly with spinach and mozzarella.
• Garlic Powder: For that subtle garlicky warmth—makes the rolls totally irresistible.
• White Pepper: Adds gentle heat without overpowering the creamy filling.
• Cream Cheese (optional): For an even creamier, tangier filling—highly recommended if you love extra richness.

Variations

The best thing about Homemade Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Rolls is just how easily you can make them your own! Whether you’re after a heartier version, keeping it gluten-free, or simply playing with flavors, there are so many creative ways to adapt this recipe to suit your cravings or dietary needs.

• Switch Up the Cheese: Try feta for a tangy, Mediterranean vibe or sharp cheddar for extra richness.
• Add Protein: Crumbled cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken turn these into a truly hearty snack or meal.
• All About the Greens: Swap out spinach for kale, chard, arugula, or even finely chopped broccoli for a new twist.
• Dough Choices: Go rustic with whole wheat or spelt flour—or use gluten-free flour blends for a wheat-free option.
• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or swap in your favorite dried herbs for more personalized flavor.

How to Make Homemade Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Rolls

Step 1: Make and Activate the Dough

Start by gently warming your milk—just above room temperature, not hot! Stir in the sugar and sprinkle over the yeast. Let it sit for about 8-9 minutes, until it gets foamy and active. This little yeast bubble bath is the secret to an ultra-light, pillowy roll.

Step 2: Prepare and Knead the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine your flour, the frothy milk-yeast mixture, egg, salt, and melted butter. Knead it all together (by hand or with a stand mixer) until a soft, slightly tacky dough forms. Knead for a few minutes on the counter to develop that signature chew—your dough should feel smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Return your dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise somewhere warm for about 90 minutes, or until it’s doubled in size. (Short on time? The “yogurt” setting on your Instant Pot cuts the rise to about 50 minutes!) While the dough puffs up, tackle the filling.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine finely chopped spinach, grated mozzarella, your favorite dried herbs, a generous sprinkle of garlic powder, white pepper, salt, and an optional spoonful of cream cheese for extra richness. Mix well so the greens, cheese, and seasonings are evenly blended—the aroma alone at this stage will make your mouth water!

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

On a lightly floured surface, gently punch down your dough, then roll it out into a ¼-inch thick rectangle. Evenly spread the spinach-cheese filling right to the edges. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips about 2–3 cm wide. Roll up each strip into fun little spirals and nestle them, spaced out, in a greased cake tin or baking pan.

Step 6: Second Proof

Cover the pans with a towel and let the rolled-up dough rise again in a cozy, draft-free spot for 50–60 minutes (or just 30 minutes in an Instant Pot). The rolls will swell and fill out the pan, promising those gorgeous fluffy layers.

Step 7: Bake and Finish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Once proofed, generously brush the tops with melted butter, then slide the pans into the hot oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, until golden brown and irresistible. For bakery-level shine and flavor, brush on more butter while the rolls are piping hot—don’t skip this part!

How to Serve Homemade Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Rolls

Garnishes

For a final flourish, try sprinkling your rolls with a pinch of flaky sea salt, fresh cracked black pepper, or a touch more grated cheese right after baking. A quick scatter of fresh chopped herbs (think parsley or basil) gives them a bakery-fresh look and an extra burst of color—totally irresistible warm from the oven!

Side Dishes

Homemade Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Rolls are fantastic alongside tomato soup, creamy polenta, or a crisp green salad. Pair with an antipasto platter for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or tuck beside eggs and fruit for a dreamy brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the rolls in a pretty spiral on a rustic wooden board and serve them family-style for sharing, or bake them in a round tin so they pull apart like petals—perfect for passing around the table. Want to wow at a picnic? Wrap individual rolls in parchment and tie with twine for a touch of charm and easy transport.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If any of these cheesy delights survive the first serving, simply let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for one day, or up to three days in the fridge. They stay moist and delicious, and can be enjoyed as a grab-and-go snack the next day!

Freezing

To freeze Homemade Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Rolls, let them cool, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and pop into a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a month! For best results, freeze before the second proof, then thaw and let them proof before baking for ultimate freshness.

Reheating

To reheat, place rolls on a baking tray in a low oven (325°F/160°C) for 8–10 minutes, or give individual rolls a quick zap in the microwave. For extra softness, brush with a little butter before warming—they’ll taste oven-fresh every time!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you take that first bite into these Homemade Spinach and Mozzarella Bread Rolls—with their warm, cheesy swirl and buttery crumb—you’ll be adding them to your regular rotation. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself on a Sunday, there’s simply nothing more comforting or joy-filled to bake. Give them a try and experience that little bit of homemade magic!

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