Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are little bundles of flavor packed with juicy cheeseburger goodness, melted cheese, and a punch of garlic and Parmesan. They’re soft on the outside with a golden, cheesy crust, and when you bite into one, you get this amazing mix of beef, gooey cheese, and bold garlic tastes. It’s like a cheeseburger, but in a fun, handheld form that’s perfect for snacking or parties.
I love making these because they’re super easy to pop in the oven and come out looking like something really impressive, even if you’re in a rush. The hint of Parmesan in the dough adds such a nice twist, and I usually sneak in a little extra garlic because I’m a fan—it just amps up the flavor in the best way. Plus, they’re great for leftovers if you have any, though I rarely do!
When I serve these, I like to have some dipping sauces on the side—ketchup, mustard, or even a creamy ranch—because they make the experience even better. They work great for game day, casual dinners, or whenever you want something comforting but with a fun bite. Honestly, these cheeseburger bombs are a crowd-pleaser every time I make them, and I bet you’ll enjoy them just as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef (80/20): This mix gives the best flavor and juiciness because of the fat content. For leaner options, try 90/10, but the bombs may be less juicy.
Biscuit or pizza dough: I often use refrigerated biscuit dough for convenience and softness. Pizza dough also works and gives a chewier texture. You can even make your own dough if you have time.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives a great cheesy flavor. You can swap it with mozzarella for a milder, stretchy cheese or try pepper jack if you want some heat.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the butter topping that makes the crust irresistible. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can work as a substitute.
How to Seal the Dough So the Cheeseburger Filling Doesn’t Leak?
Sealing the dough tightly around the beef and cheese is key to keep all the delicious filling inside during baking. Here’s what I do:
- Flatten the dough evenly to about 4 inches for easy wrapping without tearing.
- Place the beef patty and cheese in the center but don’t overfill to avoid bursting.
- Fold the edges toward the center and pinch firmly. I like to press the dough edges together and even twist a bit to secure.
- Check for any holes or weak spots and patch gently with extra dough if needed.
This way, the cheese melts inside, and you get a clean, golden ball with no leaks. After baking, let them rest for a couple of minutes so the melted cheese settles and won’t spill when you bite in.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I line it with parchment paper so the bombs don’t stick and cleanup is easy.
- Mixing bowls – for mixing the beef and preparing the topping butter; I use a medium bowl for convenience.
- Small spoon or cookie scoop – helps to evenly divide the beef and dough portions.
- Basting brush – for brushing the garlic Parmesan butter over the dough balls; a silicone brush makes it easy to spread.
- Baking parchment or non-stick spray – ensures the bombs don’t stick and come out easily.
- Cooling rack (optional) – to let the bombs rest and stay crisp on the outside after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for cooked pulled pork or turkey for different savory flavors.
- Use pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for more cheesy options or a spicy kick.
- Add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms inside the beef for extra texture and flavor.
- Mix herbs like rosemary or thyme into the garlic butter for an aromatic touch.
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder (for garlic butter topping)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Ketchup or your favorite burger sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 20-25 minutes to bake. Allow a few extra minutes for cooling before serving, so you can enjoy your cheeseburger bombs safely warm.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready and Mix the Filling:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. In a medium bowl, mix together the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is combined well.
2. Shape the Patties and Prepare the Dough:
Divide the beef mixture into 8 even portions and shape each portion into a small patty. Flatten each piece of biscuit or pizza dough into a circle about 4 inches wide on a lightly floured surface.
3. Assemble the Cheeseburger Bombs:
Place one beef patty in the center of each dough circle, then top with about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold the dough around the meat and cheese, pinching the edges tightly to seal it into a ball. Place each ball seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Add Garlic Parmesan Butter and Bake:
Mix the melted butter with the grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a small bowl. Using a brush, generously coat each dough ball with this garlic Parmesan butter. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
5. Cool, Garnish, and Serve:
Let the cheeseburger bombs cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth from the hot cheese inside. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch. Serve them warm alongside your favorite ketchup or burger sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. Thawing ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the mixture.
Can I Make Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bombs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which helps keep the crust crispy.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes! Cheddar is classic, but you can swap it for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a cheese blend depending on your taste preference. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.