Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are little bundles of cheesy, meaty goodness wrapped in soft dough. They're packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a garlicky Parmesan touch that makes…
Tip: save now, cook later.Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are little bundles of cheesy, meaty goodness wrapped in soft dough. They’re packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a garlicky Parmesan touch that makes each bite super flavorful and satisfying. The outside gets golden and slightly crispy, giving you the perfect mix of textures every time.
I love making these for a fun dinner or a party snack because they’re easy to share and everyone always asks for more. What’s great is that you can prep them ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready, so they feel special without much fuss. I usually serve them with a side of ketchup or a simple salad to balance everything out.
One of my favorite things about these cheeseburger bombs is how they remind me of all the best parts of a burger but wrapped up in a neat little package. They’re perfect for movie nights or casual get-togethers, and I keep thinking about how good they would be with a little extra garlic butter brushed on top for that gooey, golden finish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the flavor. I like 80/20 beef for juiciness, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just mind the cooking time as they dry out faster.
Dough: Refrigerated biscuit dough is an easy go-to, but pizza dough works well too, giving you a chewier bite. For gluten-free, look for a ready-made gluten-free dough.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar melt beautifully here, creating gooey, melty centers. Feel free to swap cheddar for pepper jack if you want a bit of a kick or use vegan cheese for dairy-free versions.
Parmesan: Adds a nice sharp flavor and crunchy topping when baked. If it’s unavailable, Pecorino Romano is a fine substitute.
How Do You Make Sure the Dough Seals Properly Around the Filling?
Sealing the dough is key to keeping your cheeseburger bombs intact and juicy inside. Here’s how I do it:
- After placing the filling in the center, moisten the edges of the dough with a small bit of water. This helps the dough stick together better.
- Pinch the edges tightly, gathering the dough at the top in small sections, twisting or folding slightly if needed.
- Make sure there are no gaps or holes, as leaks can cause cheese and juices to escape during baking.
- Place each ball seam side down on the baking sheet; this keeps it from opening up while baking.
Taking these small steps will make your bombs hold together perfectly, giving you that satisfying burst of beef and cheese when you bite in!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the ground beef and onions evenly without crowding.
- Baking sheet – gives the bombs plenty of space so they cook evenly and get golden all over.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Basting brush – useful for spreading garlic butter on top for that rich, flavorful crust.
- Mixing bowl – handy for combining melted butter and garlic for the topping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner version that still tastes great.
- Add diced pickles or jalapeños to the filling for a zesty kick that brightens the flavor.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits to the beef for a smoky, crispy texture you’ll love.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack for spice or Monterey Jack for a mild, creamy melt.
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Dough and Toppings:
- 1 package (about 16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for garlic butter topping)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 18-22 minutes to bake, so plan for roughly 35-40 minutes total. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef Mixture:
Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
2. Season the Filling:
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
3. Prepare and Fill the Dough:
Separate biscuit dough into individual pieces or divide pizza dough into equal parts. Flatten each piece into a 3-4 inch circle. Scoop some beef mixture onto the center of each circle, then top with a mix of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
4. Seal and Arrange:
Pinch the dough edges together to seal the filling inside, forming a tight ball. Place each ball seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
5. Add Garlic Butter and Parmesan:
Mix melted butter with minced garlic in a small bowl. Brush the mixture over the tops of the dough balls. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake and Garnish:
Bake the bombs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the bombs cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the cheesy, garlicky, beefy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Dough for These Cheeseburger Bombs?
Yes! If using frozen dough, be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before shaping. This helps the dough become pliable and easier to work with.
Can I Make Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bombs and place them on the baking sheet, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to keep them crispy on the outside.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Definitely! Try adding diced pickles, cooked bacon, or a splash of BBQ sauce to the ground beef for extra flavor. You can also swap the cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
