Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are little pockets of cheesy, garlicky goodness wrapped in soft dough. Inside, you’ll find juicy ground beef mixed with savory Parmesan cheese and a punch of…
Tip: save now, cook later.Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are little pockets of cheesy, garlicky goodness wrapped in soft dough. Inside, you’ll find juicy ground beef mixed with savory Parmesan cheese and a punch of garlic that makes every bite flavorful and satisfying. They’re like a cheeseburger, but in a fun, handheld form that’s perfect for snacking or sharing.
I love making these bombs when I want something easy but impressive. They’re great for a game day snack or a quick dinner, especially when you don’t want to fuss with a full burger. I usually like to sprinkle a bit extra Parmesan on top before baking to give them a nice, golden crust that’s just irresistible. Plus, they come together pretty quickly, which is a big win in my book!
These cheeseburger bombs taste even better with a side of ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. I find that they’re always a hit, especially with kids and friends, because they’re fun to eat and packed with familiar flavors. Honestly, they remind me of a little party in your mouth, and I end up making a double batch just to have plenty for everyone to enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80% lean for a juicy, flavorful bite without too much fat. If you prefer leaner options, ground turkey or chicken also work well but add a bit less fat, so watch the moisture.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds gooey stretchiness, while Parmesan gives a nutty flavor. You can swap mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different vibe. Adding extra Parmesan on top helps create a tasty golden crust.
Dough: Refrigerated biscuit dough is super convenient. If you want to make it from scratch, pizza dough is a great substitute. Both give a nice soft outside that crisps when baked.
Garlic & Butter: Fresh minced garlic mixed into melted butter is key for that rich, aromatic topping. You could also use garlic salt if you want to save time but fresh always tastes best.
How Do I Keep the Dough Sealed Without Leaks?
Sealing the dough around the filling tightly is crucial to avoid cheeseburger bombs leaking during baking. Here’s what helps:
- Roll dough pieces slightly larger so they fully cover the meat and cheese.
- Gather dough edges up carefully around the filling, pinch firmly, and press seams together.
- Turn seam side down when placing on the baking sheet to prevent openings during cooking.
- If dough feels sticky, dust your hands with a little flour for easier handling.
Taking your time during sealing means cheeseburgers stay juicy inside and won’t burst out in the oven.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – holds your cheeseburger bombs and ensures even cooking.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
- Mixing bowl – great for combining ground beef and seasonings smoothly.
- Pastry brush – helps you brush the garlic butter evenly on top.
- Rolling pin (optional) – handy if you want to roll dough out a bit larger for easier wrapping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still tastes great.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions inside for extra savory flavor and texture.
- Mix shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a sharper or spicier kick.
- Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes into the meat for a smoky or spicy twist.
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
For the Dough & Topping:
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough (10-count) or pizza dough
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: ketchup or mustard for dipping
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to bake, for a total of roughly 35 minutes. You’ll do quick mixing, shaping, filling, and then just bake and cool before enjoying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well blended.
2. Shape and Fill the Dough:
Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions and form each into a small patty about the size of the biscuit dough pieces. Lightly roll out each biscuit or pizza dough piece on a floured surface to make it a bit larger. Place each meat patty in the center, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Fold the dough edges up and pinch tightly to seal the filling inside a ball. Place seam side down on the baking sheet.
3. Add Garlic Butter and Bake:
Mix melted butter with minced garlic and parsley. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over each dough ball. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for that awesome golden crust. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for the Cheeseburger Bombs?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps ensure even cooking and easy mixing with the seasonings.
Can I Make Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bombs and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a couple extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp and cheese melty.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Definitely! Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack work great too, depending on your preferred flavor.