Picture this: your dinner table is set, the aroma of a home-cooked meal fills the air, but something’s missing a warm, fluffy dinner roll to tie it all together. After a long day, who has time to knead dough, let it rise, and bake from scratch? That’s where store-bought dinner rolls swoop in, promising homemade flavor without the hassle. They’re the wingmen of weeknight meals and holiday tables, poised to take any dish to the next level. But with the freezer shelf lined with so many choices, choosing the correct one is a gamble that feels high-risk. This primer is your guide to the greatest pre-made rolls, sampled and rated for your plate.
Browsing the freezer aisle is daunting, with dozens of brands crying “choose me!” from yeast rolls to artisanal buns. One misstep, and your dinner sidekick is a flop, disappointing everyone. I’ve been there, gaping at the shelves, trying to decide which rolls will make my supper sing without spilling the beans on my cheat. So I decided to take it upon myself, baking and sampling 14 frozen dinner roll brands plain and with butter to discover the genuine winners. There were busts, but there were also some winners.
Let’s embark on this carb-loaded journey to locate the rolls worthy of a place at your table. From mediocre to revolutionary, this taste test splits the dull from the dazzling. If you’re entertaining a large crowd or simply shaking up a Tuesday evening, these rankings will guide you in the right direction. The winning offerings dole out that just-baked wizardry, tricking everyone into believing you worked all night over the oven. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to rolls that steal the show. Here’s the scoop on which ones are worth your dough, from the flops to the absolute champs.
Get ready to make your meals unforgettable with these freezer-aisle gems.
1. Sister Schubert’s Dinner Yeast Rolls
Sister Schubert’s Dinner Yeast Rolls caught my eye with their unique square shape and a heartwarming backstory. Started by Patricia “Sister” Schubert, this company is all about bringing home-style comfort to hectic kitchens. I wanted these rolls to bring a warm, homemade feel to my table, something beyond the standard round buns. Their ease of baking had me looking forward to trying them out. But would they deliver? I put them in the oven, eager to discover.
- Novel Shape: Square rolls provide a new spin, ideal for creative dinner presentation.
- Homemade Origins: Drawn by Patricia Schubert’s passion for cooking, striving for genuine taste.
- Easy Preparation: Made to be rapidly baked, perfect for hectic home cooks requiring ease.
- Versatile Application: Ideal for accompaniment with meals or use as a foundation for innovative sandwiches.
- Readily Available: In most supermarkets, accessible for wide use.
Unfortunately, these rolls were a disappointment hot from the oven, with no golden crust but only a dull, blotched top. The texture was good but unremarkable, missing that fluffy wow element I was looking for. The kicker was an odd chemical aftertaste that lingered, even with butter spread on. It was a flavor none of the other rolls in my sample had, and not one to be welcomed. I wished to adore these for their tale, but they fell short.
This company’s intentions are in the right place, but taste reigns supreme, and these rolls fell short. They won’t trick anyone into believing you spent hours making them from scratch, no matter how much butter you pour on them. For a dinner party, they’re a firm no-go if you want to impress. Sister Schubert’s square rolls were the worst on my list. There are better ones waiting for your bread basket.
2. Safeway Dinner Rolls I picked up Safeway
Dinner Rolls from my neighborhood store’s bakery counter, wishing for a home-state victory. As a loyal aficionado of Safeway’s fresh breads, I had my fingers crossed that these would be an easy, no-frills option. There is something endearing about buying from your favorite grocery, especially when ease is paramount. I ripped one open directly from the package, hoping they could hold their own. Would they infuse that cozy, comforting feeling into my dish? Only a taste would tell.
The first bite was a letdown these rolls were light but achingly dry, as if they’d been sitting out too long. I microwaved one and put butter on it, in an attempt to salvage it, but the dryness hung tough. The texture was slightly chewier when warmed, but it was still lacking in the tenderness I sought. They weren’t terrible, just forgettable, lacking that warm dinner roll magic. Safeway’s generally a winner, but these disappointed.
If you’re in a bind and want a side that won’t overshadow the meal, these may suffice. But they’ll never set foot back on my table they don’t have the fluffiness and comfort that I look for in a roll. Safeway, you have my loyalty for other products, but these rolls require a little more love to shine. They’re a middle-of-the-road affair at best. Keep looking for a superior bun to complement your meal.
3. Rhodes Warm & Serve Artisan French Rolls
I was sold on the use of the word “artisan” in Rhodes Warm & Serve Artisan French Rolls. I fantasized about how they’d be the stars of a high-end dinner or Sunday brunch, no thawing necessary. Their quick prep and upscale feel promise won me over before I ever untied the bag. Just out of the oven, they were the picture blonde with split “ear” top, resembling small baguettes. Could they pack a flavor to keep up with their appearance?
I was about to get my answer.
- Crusty Exterior: Replicates artisan baguettes with a crunch that’s pleasing to the ear, perfect for special meals.
- No Thawing Required: Convenient prep time makes them great for impromptu gatherings or crazy nights.
- Elegant Appearance: Golden, split tops provide a homemade, fresh-from-the-bakery look.
- Versatile Pairing: Accents soups, stews, or charcuterie with an upscale flair.
- Widely Available: Available in most freezer sections, providing convenience without hassle.
Unfortunately, the flavor didn’t meet the looks. The crust was perfect, but the taste was flat, literally flour and water without any yeasty complexity. Butter couldn’t salvage them it just lingered, powerless to shake off the flatness. They could have been a winner for texture fans, but without the flavor, they were a deal-breaker. I hoped these would be a show-stopper, but alas, they fell short.
These rolls are a decent choice if aesthetics matter more than taste, but they’re not the full package. They look gourmet but taste basic, landing low on my list. For a truly memorable roll, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Rhodes tried to bring artisan flair, but flavor is where they stumbled. Your dinner deserves a bun with more personality.
4. Signature Select Artisan-Style Dinner Rolls
Signature Select Artisan-Style Dinner Rolls appeared irresistibly soft and airy, conjuring ideas of flawless mini sliders at a get-together. I was hoping this store brand would be a value gem, poised to shine without exaggeration. Right out of the bag, they were… adequate. Not terrible, not excellent—merely an average roll that didn’t call out. I microwaved one, thinking warmth would release some secret magic. Would these humble buns surprise me?
They were plain straight out of the bag, getting on with their work without fuss, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. But warming them up made it all turn sour the texture became chewy and doughy, not in a positive sense. It tasted like overworked dough, miles from the light, fluffy bite I craved. Butter brought some moisture but wasn’t able to sort out the dull vibe. They’re fine cold, but heated through, they lost their appeal.
For a hassle-free side, these rolls could do the trick, but they’re not memorable in the grand picture. They’re pack-of-middle-of-the-line, dependable but not tantalizing. Signature Select failed to bring the artisan experience I was expecting. Reserve these for a low-key dinner, but don’t bank on them impressing. Your table is worthy of a roll with more flair.
5. Texas Roadhouse Mini Rolls
Texas Roadhouse’s fabled restaurant rolls are the epitome of dreams golden, buttery, unrememberable. So, seeing their Mini Rolls on sale at Walmart left me all aflutter. I pictured impressing company at a barbecue with that signature flavor without ever having to set foot in a restaurant. These diminutive cubes vowed to bring home the chain’s magic in a convenient package. Would they deliver? I tossed them in the oven, anticipating a taste of glory.
- Iconic Brand: Carries the Texas Roadhouse name, promising restaurant-quality flavor at home.
- Mini Size: Perfect for small bites, sliders, or portion-controlled sides at gatherings.
- Buttery Potential: Expected to deliver the chain’s signature rich, indulgent taste.
- Easy Prep: Quick baking makes them ideal for busy nights or impromptu meals.
- Nostalgic Appeal: Evokes memories of Texas Roadhouse’s warm, fresh-baked rolls.
Fresh from the oven, they let me down no golden radiance, only pale with spots of brown. Good texture, better crust, fluffy interior, but bad flavor, too yeasty and lacking that buttery magic. Even buttered to death, they remained flat, failing to bring the restaurant’s magic. As a fan, I was disappointed they fell short of the legend. They’re fine but not knockouts.
These rolls bank on nostalgia but fall short of the Texas Roadhouse standard. They’re a solid middle-tier choice for a quick side, but they won’t steal the show. If you’re craving that restaurant vibe, you’re better off dining out. These minis are fine for a pinch but don’t expect magic. Look elsewhere for a roll that truly shines.
6. Great Value Yeast Dinner Rolls
Walmart’s Great Value Yeast Dinner Rolls were the first to strike me as being both affordable and square. At around $3.50 for 10, they were a bargain, ideal for making mini sandwiches for a party. I was hoping they’d show that budget brands can hold up to more expensive names. Their convenience promise got me excited to bake them up. Would these upstart underdogs be able to offer big flavor? I was willing to give them a chance.
They browned pale, with spotty browning rather than a golden crust, even when brushed with butter. The texture was light with a tender crust, which was a bonus, but the taste yelled plain white bread no yeasty complexity. Butter contributed to moisture without adding much in terms of taste. They’re not terrible for their cost, but they don’t shine in a crowded market.
For an ultra budget-friendly side, these rolls work without drama. But they’re mediocre, not having the pizzazz of a wonderful dinner roll. Great Value’s promise falls short compared to more flavorful ones. They’re okay for a fast meal, but don’t hold your breath for them to amaze. Your table deserves a bun with more personality.
7. Artesano Bakery-Bread Bakery Rolls
Artesano Bakery Rolls were suspiciously close in appearance to Signature Select’s, as if twins placed side by side in the bread department. Fresh from the bag, they were unadorned but harmless, a roll that is just there without fanfare. I was praying that heating them up would unleash something extra special, perhaps an inner spark to give them life. Their soft, pillow-like quality had promise as a humble dinner side. Would a speedy reheat turn them into stars? I gave them an opportunity to redeem themselves.
- Soft Texture: Pillow-like texture guarantees comfort, perfect for basic no-fuss meals.
- Quick Prep: Convenient to heat up, suitable for hectic schedules or dinners at the last minute.
- Neutral Flavor: Won’t overwhelm main courses, meshing perfectly with any meal.
- Store-Brand Value: Budget-friendly choice for frugal consumers looking for dependability.
- Consistent Quality: Reliable performance, so they’re a secure, if uninspiring, option.
Microwaving saved them they were less doughy than Signature Select, and slightly improved in texture. However, they remained stubbornly average, neither providing any discernible flavor kick nor distinctive characteristics. Butter gave them some richness, but they still remained bland, not standout. They’re okay to be a bread basket filler but won’t get anyone enthusiastic. Artesano gets the job done, barely.
These rolls are good for a low-key dinner when you want something safe. They’re decently in the middle, not awful or exciting. Artesano’s rolls won’t get you excited, but they also won’t ruin your dinner. If you’re looking for a roll that actually makes your dinner pop, you should keep searching. These are merely decent, and decent is not enough to make a table pop.
8. Rhodes Bake-N-Serv Dinner Rolls
Rhodes Bake-N-Serv Dinner Rolls, a freezer-shelf staple since 1958, take some patience with a 3-5 hour thaw-and-rise time. But for the planner, they offer a close-to-homemade experience without the bother of making dough. I was eager to find out if the planning paid off with that just-out-of-the-oven magic. These rolls had a history of good quality, and I was looking forward to putting it to the test. Would they provide that homey atmosphere I was looking for? Into the oven they went.
They came out wonderful crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, like a cozy bread hug. The taste was subtle but full, adding to any meal without overpowering it. Critics obsessed, with one Target consumer stating, “Brushed them with herb butter, and they were amazing so soft and fluffy!” Another praised their convenience: “Just thaw, rise, bake, and they’re golden and delicious.” These rolls hit the homemade mark.
Versatile and crowd-pleasing, they’re ideal for breakfast cinnamon rolls or dinner sliders. Rhodes produces a premium experience with a bit of effort, rendering them a top-choice selection. They’re ideal for people who desire quality without cooking skills. Your guests will believe you baked from scratch. These rolls are a game-changer for any meal.
9. Sister Schubert’s Parker House Style Yeast Rolls
Sister Schubert’s Parker House Style Yeast Rolls have a heritage from the Boston Parker House Hotel, famous for buttery, classic rolls dating back to the 1800s. These little squares promised that same old-fashioned taste in a convenient format. I was fascinated by their retro appeal and included aluminum pan to keep them from over-browning. Would they deliver old-school magic to my dinner table? I baked them up, dreaming of a taste of history.
- Historic Charm: Reminiscent of the legendary Parker House rolls, with traditional dining ambiance.
- Buttery Flavor: Nostalgic rich flavor recalling Pillsbury’s Poppin’ Fresh rolls.
- Convenient Pan: Includes aluminum tray to prevent burning and ensure even baking.
- Bite-Sized Appeal: Bite-sized, ideal for snacking or portion control.
- Easy Prep: Fast baking accommodates busy lives, bringing comfort with ease.
They packed a buttery punch, but small, with a comforting, nostalgic flavor. They were soft in texture, and even unbuttered, the flavor stood on its own. Critics referred to them as “special” because of their rich flavor, ideal for any meal. They are slightly finicky to bake, but it’s a payoff worth making. These rolls add a classic feel that makes any spread better.
Sister Schubert’s redeemed itself here, with a roll that’s like a warm hug. They’re ideal for bringing charm to a humble dinner without effort. These tiny squares have tremendous flavor, and it makes them one of the top. Your guests will adore the buttery goodness. They’re a wonderful tribute to tradition that glows on any table.
10. Rhodes Bake-N-Serv Texas Size Rolls
Rhodes Bake-N-Serv Texas Size Rolls do not disappoint large, strong, and ready to take over the table. These giant buns were more than a side dish in the making; I envisioned them used as foundations for legendary sandwiches or sliders. Taking a few hours to thaw and then rise, they’re a task, but I was willing to discover if the size equaled the taste. Did they have Texas-sized flavor? I baked them, hoping for a wow factor.
They had a flaky crust and a spongey, melt-in-your-mouth texture, with a sweet, yeasty balance that was absolute perfection. Critics described them as “superior,” applauding their flexibility for burgers or lobster rolls. The 24-count package provides endless possibilities, from breadsticks to pizza dough. Their portion size and quality make them a standout for large gatherings. These rolls are a bold, tasty option.
For those in need of something more than a typical roll, Rhodes Texas Size fits the bill. They’re a high-end choice that makes any meal a special occasion. Ideal for innovative chefs, they’re worth the preparation time for their taste and versatility. Your table will resemble a banquet with these giants. They’re a high-end bun that barks quality.
11. Kroger Original Yeast Dinner Roll Dough
Kroger Original Yeast Dinner Roll Dough is a steal found in the freezer aisle, with 36 thaw-and-bake rolls for less than $4. That’s value you can’t resist, ideal for feeding a crowd without spending an arm and a leg. I was excited to put to the test whether this value option could rival more expensive brands. Taking hours to rise, they promised big for small cost. Would they deliver quantity and quality? I baked them up to see.
- Unbeatable Value: 36 rolls for less than $4 makes it the best bargain.
- Versatile Dough: Great for monkey bread, pretzels, or pull-aparts in addition to dinner rolls.
- Crisp Texture: Bakes to a golden, crunchy outside and light inside.
- Mellow Flavor: Smooth taste enhances any meal without overpowering it.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for big groups, holidays, or fun baking projects.
They aced it with a crunchy outside, airy inside, and subtle taste that complemented any meal. Rave reviews from critics praised their “elegant” texture, describing them as a “Thanksgiving hack.” Their use deserves to be showcased imagine caramel pull-aparts or soft pretzels. Kroger’s rolls are a cost marvel that fail not in quality. They’re a best value pick for taste and quality.
This dough is a lifesaver for large dinners or innovative bakers. It provides high-quality flavor at a fraction of the price, ideal for holidays or weeknight meals. Kroger shows you don’t have to break the bank for fantastic rolls. These are essentials for any freezer. Your table will be grateful for this tasty bargain.
12. Pepperidge Farm Dinner Rolls Stone Baked Artisan French
Pepperidge Farm Stone Baked Artisan French Dinner Rolls vowed to deliver a crusty, bakery-fresh experience from my own oven. Sampled at 9.2/10 by testers, they were only the runner-up, with a chewy inside and crunchy outside. I envisioned them sopping up stew or accompanying a charcuterie platter. Their distinctive, handcrafted appearance sold me on them pre-bake. Would they deliver the gourmet feel at home? I couldn’t wait to discover the magic.
They did not disappoint fresh like French bread, with an airy, chewy center ideal for robust meals. Critics likened them to Panera’s baguettes, citing their 8-minute cooking time. Every roll was distinct, resisting that mass-produced appearance, which hollered homemade. They cost more for eight buns, but the quality is well worth it. These rolls are a standout in any meal.
Ideal for entertaining or classing up a weeknight meal, Pepperidge Farm is the epitome of artisanal charm. They’re practically an ideal choice for those who want bakery-quality rolls without the effort. Their rustic appearance and flavor make them a top-of-the-line selection. Your guests will be impressed, assuming you stopped at a high-end bakery. These rolls are a necessity for gourmet ambiance.
13. Rhodes Warm & Serve Soft White Rolls
Rhodes Warm & Serve Soft White Rolls are the epitome of convenience no thawing, no proofing, just throw them in the oven. Partially baked for fast preparation, they guarantee restaurant-quality rolls in minutes. I was excited to put their instant deliciousness claim to the test, ideal for a last-minute urge. Their palm-sized, mounded appearance was promising. Would they bring pro-level flavor? I baked them to see.
- Ultimate Convenience: No thawing or rising required, ready in minutes for instant satisfaction.
- Restaurant Quality: Partially baked for a professional, freshly baked appearance and flavor.
- Soft Texture: Tender, airy interior with a beautifully rounded, golden crust.
- Versatile Size: Palm-sized rolls serve as sides or individual snacks.
- Sweet Flavor: Delicious on their own or paired with butter for a hint of sweetness.
They baked up perfectly, a silky soft interior and taste that was wonderful without even the use of butter. Raving about how professionally baked they were and about their texture and simplicity, reviewers made them a must-try. At $6 a dozen, they’re well worth it for the convenience and the flavor. Suitable for any mealtime occasion, from weeknight meals to special nights out, Rhodes got the speed vs. quality measure just right.
These rolls are a chef’s saver for busy cooks who need the best flavor in a hurry. They appear and taste as if they’re from a upscale bakery, deceiving any visitor. At the top of the list, they’re perfect for bread enthusiasts seeking immediate gratification. Store these in your freezer for easy decadence. Your dining table will be like that of a restaurant with these treasures.
14. Rhodes Yeast Dinner Rolls
Rhodes Yeast Dinner Rolls won top prize during my taste test with a glowing 9.5/10 from our editors. They might seem plain, but these buns are perfection itself light, airy, and flavor-filled. Having destroyed a cinnamon roll test, I had high expectations they’d excel here as well. With a thaw and rise requirement, they’re a tiny project with huge payoff. Are they the ultimate dinner roll? I baked them to see.
- Top-Rated Taste: Received 9.5/10 for a yeasty, mildly sweet flavor that amazes.
- Ideal Texture: Extremely light with crunchy crust and airy, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
- Crowd Pleaser: Testers couldn’t get enough, snagging extras for their plates.
- Versatile Pairing: Great with stews, gravies, or used as a base for innovative dishes.
- Homemade Look: Appears and tastes as if you baked them fresh from scratch, impressing everyone.
They provided a divine equilibrium yeasty, a touch sweet, and ideal with butter or honey. Raves from testers: “the perfect little bun,” praising their softness and crust. Easy to use for hearty stews or holiday meals, they’re a crowd-pleaser. One reviewer described them as “better than homemade,” and I concur. These rolls are the gold standard for any table. Rhodes Yeast Dinner Rolls are the ultimate freezer-aisle find, turning any meal into a masterpiece. They’re worth the prep time for their unbeatable flavor and texture. Your guests will beg for your recipe, unaware of your shortcut. Keep these on hand for instant culinary cred. They’re the best buns for any occasion, hands down.
