The Best Homemade Potato Rolls: Irresistibly Soft, Fluffy, and Easy to Make
There’s nothing quite like a warm, tender roll, fresh from the oven, to complete a meal. But what if those rolls were not just good, but extraordinarily soft, incredibly fluffy, and bursting with a subtle, comforting flavor? Enter these homemade potato rolls, crafted with the secret ingredient that elevates them above all others: leftover mashed potatoes. This simple addition transforms ordinary dinner rolls into a truly unforgettable culinary experience, making them perhaps the best dinner rolls you’ll ever taste.
Whether you’re planning a grand holiday feast for Thanksgiving or Christmas, hosting a cozy family dinner, or simply looking to elevate an everyday meal, these potato rolls are the perfect accompaniment. Their rich texture and inviting aroma make them a year-round favorite, bringing a touch of homemade goodness to any table.
Why These Homemade Potato Rolls Are a Must-Try
Beyond their delightful flavor and texture, these mashed potato rolls evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. They’re just like the ones Grandma used to make – simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying. The magic of using mashed potatoes lies in their ability to add moisture and starch to the dough, resulting in a roll that is remarkably tender and stays fresh longer than traditional white bread rolls.
Don’t be intimidated by the inclusion of yeast or the need for a dough rise. While baking with yeast might seem daunting to some, I promise you this recipe is incredibly straightforward and forgiving. Even if this is your very first attempt at making rolls from scratch, you’ll find the process manageable and the results incredibly rewarding. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you likely have everything you need on hand to whip up a batch of these fluffy delights.
Perfect Pairings for Your Fluffy Potato Rolls
Once you’ve mastered these irresistible potato rolls, you’ll discover their incredible versatility. They’re not just a side dish; they can elevate a variety of meals, from hearty casseroles to savory roasts. Imagine tearing into one of these soft rolls, using it to sop up the delicious gravy from your main course, or simply enjoying it with a generous pat of butter.
- Hearty Casseroles: Pair them with comforting dishes like Chicken Pot Pie or Chicken Noodle Casserole for a truly satisfying meal. The rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauces.
- Savory Meats: They are an excellent accompaniment to richer main courses such as Smothered Pork Chops or a perfectly cooked Air Fryer Ham, providing a soft counterpoint to the robust flavors.
- Slider Sandwiches: These soft homemade dinner rolls are also ideally sized for creating delicious slider sandwiches. Think Hot Italian Sliders packed with meats and cheeses, or fun Chicken Parmesan Sliders with Chicken Nuggets for a party or casual gathering. Their sturdy yet soft texture holds up beautifully to various fillings.
- Soups and Stews: There’s nothing better than a warm roll with a bowl of your favorite soup or stew on a cold day.
You simply cannot beat the taste and texture of these pillowy, tender homemade dinner rolls. They are incredibly delicious on their own, allowing their subtle sweetness and rich potato flavor to shine. For an added touch of indulgence, spread a generous pat of butter (or even homemade jam!) over a warm, split roll. The way the butter melts into the soft interior is pure bliss.
The beauty of this potato roll recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of everyday ingredients. Aside from active dry yeast and your special mashed potatoes, you likely have all the other items already stocked in your fridge and pantry, making it convenient to bake a batch whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Perfect Potato Rolls
Achieving the perfect texture and flavor for these potato rolls starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some helpful tips for each:
- Water: Lukewarm water is crucial for activating the yeast. Ensure it’s not too hot (which can kill the yeast) or too cold (which won’t activate it). Around 105-115°F (40-46°C) is ideal.
- Active Dry Yeast: One packet, which is typically 2 ¼ teaspoons, is all you need. Fresh, active yeast is key for a good rise. Always check the expiration date!
- Granulated Sugar: This isn’t just for sweetness; a small amount feeds the yeast, helping it activate and rise effectively. It also contributes to the beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Mashed Potatoes: This is the star ingredient! You’ll need plain mashed potatoes, preferably at room temperature. Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, making this a fantastic way to utilize holiday leftovers. If you don’t have leftovers, you can easily make fresh mashed potatoes or even use instant mashed potatoes (prepared according to package directions) for an equal amount. I’ve even had success using richer mashed potatoes like mashed potatoes with cream cheese and sour cream, adding an extra layer of flavor and richness. Just ensure they are smooth and free of large lumps.
- Whole Milk: Whole milk contributes to a richer dough and a more tender crumb. While you can substitute with other types of milk, be aware that some (like skim or almond milk) are more watery. If your dough feels too sticky after adding the flour, simply add a bit more all-purpose flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough no longer sticks to your hands.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted and cooled butter adds richness and tenderness to the rolls. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the total sodium content in the recipe. Have extra on hand for brushing the rolls after baking for that perfect glossy finish.
- Eggs: Large eggs, ideally at room temperature, bind the ingredients together, add richness, and contribute to the rolls’ structure and golden color.
- Sea Salt: Fine sea salt enhances all the flavors in the rolls and balances the sweetness. Don’t skip it!
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour works wonderfully here. For best results, measure your flour by weight if possible, or use the “spoon and level” method to avoid adding too much flour, which can result in dense rolls.
Essential Baking Supplies for Potato Rolls
Having the right tools makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the supplies you’ll need to create these delicious potato rolls:
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
- Large measuring cup: Useful for proofing the yeast.
- Stand mixer with dough hook: While you can mix by hand, a stand mixer makes the kneading process incredibly easy and efficient, ensuring a well-developed dough.
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need at least one large bowl for the dough’s first rise.
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish is perfect for baking 16 rolls, allowing them to gently kiss and bake into a soft, pull-apart batch.
Step-By-Step Directions: Crafting Your Perfect Potato Rolls
Follow these detailed steps to create the most incredible potato rolls. Remember, patience is a virtue when working with yeast, but the process itself is quite simple!
1. Activate the Yeast
Begin by adding the lukewarm water to a large measuring cup or a small bowl. Heat it in the microwave for approximately 15-20 seconds; it should feel warm to the touch, not hot. Stir in the active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. This sugar acts as food for the yeast. Gently set this mixture aside in a warm area of your kitchen to proof for 5 minutes. You’ll know the yeast is active and ready when it becomes bubbly and foamy on the surface.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
Once your yeast has proofed beautifully, pour the foamy mixture into the bowl of your stand mixer. Add the remaining ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, the room-temperature mashed potatoes, whole milk, cooled melted unsalted butter, eggs, and sea salt. Attach the dough hook to your stand mixer and mix on low speed until all these wet ingredients are thoroughly combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Add Flour and Knead the Dough
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients in the mixer. Mix on medium-low speed for 5-6 minutes. During this time, the dough will transform. It should gather around the dough hook and completely pull away from the sides of the bowl, forming a smooth, elastic ball. If the dough seems too sticky, add a teaspoon of flour at a time until it reaches the desired consistency; if it’s too stiff, add a teaspoon of milk.
4. Prepare for the First Rise
While your dough is kneading, preheat your oven to a low temperature, specifically 170° F (77°C). Once the oven reaches this temperature, turn it off immediately. This creates a warm, draft-free environment perfect for dough rising.
Lightly spray a large mixing bowl with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer your ball of dough to this prepared bowl, then flip the dough over once to lightly coat both sides with the spray. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place the covered bowl in the warm, turned-off oven and allow the dough to rise for 1 hour. After an hour, your dough should have almost doubled in size, indicating successful proofing.
5. Shape the Rolls
Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside. Gently turn your risen dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, divide the dough into 16 equal-sized pieces. The easiest way to do this is to shape the dough into a rectangle, then cut it into 4 rows by 4 columns.
6. Second Rise
Take each piece of dough and roll it into a smooth, tight ball. Arrange these dough balls evenly in your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Allow the rolls to undergo their second rise for another 1 hour in the warm oven (which should still be off). If your oven has completely cooled, you can briefly preheat it to 170°F (77°C) again while you shape the rolls, then turn it off before returning the rolls to rise. This second rise ensures extra fluffiness and a light texture.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection
After the second rise, remove the rolls from the oven. Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit (175°C). Ensure the rolls are out of the oven before it heats up! Once the oven is at temperature, place the baking dish with the rolls inside.
Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown. The rolls should feel light and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Serve Warm with Butter
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with a little extra melted butter. This adds a lovely sheen, extra flavor, and helps keep the crust soft. Serve these incredible potato rolls warm and enjoy their unparalleled softness and rich taste. They are truly a treat!
Storage and Freezing Tips for Freshness
These homemade potato rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later enjoyment. Proper storage ensures they retain their wonderful texture and flavor.
COUNTERTOP STORAGE: Allow the potato dinner rolls to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Place them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Try to press out as much air as possible from the bag to prevent them from drying out. Stored this way, the rolls will remain deliciously fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature. If they start to feel a little firm, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will bring back their softness.
FREEZER STORAGE: For longer-term storage, the freezer is your best friend. Once the potato rolls have cooled completely, wrap each roll individually in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer bag or another freezer-safe airtight container. These rolls will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. You can reheat them in a warm oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their fresh-baked warmth and softness.
Leftover mashed potato rolls are wonderfully versatile. Enjoy them on their own, slathered with butter or jam, as a side with dinner or soup, or get creative! Use them to make mini sandwiches, cube them for homemade croutons, or even turn them into a delightful french toast casserole for breakfast or brunch. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Potato Rolls
A potato roll is a type of yeast-leavened dinner roll where a portion of the flour is replaced with cooked potatoes, typically leftover mashed potatoes or potato flakes. This unique addition gives the rolls an incredibly soft, moist, and fluffy texture, a slightly denser crumb than regular rolls, and a subtle hint of sweetness and earthy potato flavor that makes them stand out.
Unlike store-bought bread, homemade potato rolls do not contain any preservatives. Therefore, they are best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For extended freshness, you can easily freeze them for up to 3 months. Always ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Absolutely! While leftover homemade mashed potatoes are ideal, you can certainly use instant mashed potatoes. Just prepare them according to the package directions, ensuring they are smooth and free of lumps, then allow them to cool to room temperature before incorporating them into the dough. The key is to use the correct amount of prepared mashed potatoes as specified in the recipe.
If your yeast mixture doesn’t become bubbly and foamy after 5 minutes in warm water and sugar, it means your yeast is likely inactive (either expired or killed by water that was too hot). In this case, it’s best to discard the mixture and start again with fresh yeast and properly warmed water. An active yeast is crucial for the rolls to rise properly.
More Tasty Bread Recipes to Explore
- Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
- Irish Soda Bread
- 7-up Biscuits with Bisquick
- Pull-Apart Bread with Biscuit Dough
- Italian Seasoned Bread
Potato Rolls
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
- ½ cup water
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast or 1 package
- ⅓ cup + 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar divided
- 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes room temperature
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled + extra for topping
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
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Add the water to a large measuring cup or small bowl and heat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Stir in the yeast and 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar. Set aside in a warm area to proof for 5 minutes.
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When the yeast has proofed, pour it into the bowl of a stand mixer and add the remaining ⅓ cup granulated sugar, potatoes, whole milk, unsalted butter, eggs, and sea salt. Using a dough hook, mix until well-combined.
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Add in the all-purpose flour and mix on medium-low for 5-6 minutes. The dough should form a ball around the dough hook and completely pull away from the sides of the bowl.
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While the dough is mixing, preheat your oven to 170° F and then turn off the oven when it has heated.
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Lightly spray a large mixing bowl with non-stick cooking spray and add your ball of dough to the prepared bowl. Flip the dough over and cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow to rise in the warm oven for 1 hour. It should be almost doubled in size.
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Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and cut into 16 equal-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place it into the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish and allow the rolls to rise for 1 hour in the warm oven. *If your oven has cooled you can preheat it again while you shape the rolls and turn it off when you’re ready to put them in to rise.
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Preheat the oven to 350° F. *Be sure to remove the rolls first if you are letting them rise in the oven!
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Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Brush with melted butter before serving.
Notes
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