thanksgiving

The 5 Classic Dinner Rolls Everyone Should Know

Faith Durand
Faith DurandSenior Vice President of Content
Faith is the SVP of Content at Apartment Therapy Media and former Editor-in-Chief of The Kitchn. She is the author of three cookbooks, including the James Beard Award-winning, The Kitchn Cookbook. She lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband and two daughters.
updated May 1, 2019
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Dinner rolls laid on a towel over a bread basket
(Image credit: Maria Midoes)

After the turkey, the gravy, and the stuffing, what goes on the Thanksgiving table? Rolls! Well, at least in my family, where the bread is one of the stars. Here are five classic recipes and step-by-step guides for making scrumptious rolls that everyone will remember.

Homemade dinner rolls don’t need to be an all-day affair — especially during Thanksgiving when you’re busy with plenty of other things. These call for nothing but pantry staples and come together without fuss. Since they are so easy, they’ll likely make it into your regular dinner roster as well.

(Image credit: Faith Durand)

This recipe makes an extra-large batch of tender rolls, but that’s definitely not a problem as they’re awesome used for leftover turkey sandwiches the next day. A little lemon zest in the dough adds a touch of brightness and will leave your guests wondering what the secret ingredient is.

(Image credit: Leela Cyd)

These flaky rolls are definitely showstoppers and sure to grab your guests’ attention among the turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Yogurt in the dough ensures the rolls are extra moist, while olive oil and plenty of fresh herbs lend a nice savory element.

(Image credit: Maria Midoes)

A warm, tender biscuit is equally as wonderful as any and all kinds of bread rolls. These are the fastest, easiest version around, thanks to nothing but a mix of self-rising flour and plain Greek yogurt. They are also infinitely adaptable — have fun experimenting with adding fresh herbs, cheese, bacon, or a combination of all three.

(Image credit: Emma Christensen)

These classic rolls are dipped in melted butter before they are baked to ensure they are extra decadent and crowd-pleasing — although serving them with extra butter for spreading never hurt anyone.