Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs are a heavenly combination of soft, golden dough filled with gooey, melted cheese and brushed with a rich, aromatic garlic butter. These bite-sized delights are a must-have for cheese lovers, delivering an irresistible mix of savory, buttery, and cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

These cheese bombs are incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients like store-bought or homemade dough, your favorite type of cheese, and a buttery garlic glaze. Baked until golden brown, they emerge from the oven with a perfect balance of crispness on the outside and cheesy meltiness inside. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or just looking for a satisfying treat, these cheese bombs are the answer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Using pre-made dough, this recipe comes together in no time. Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious homemade snack with minimal effort.
• Gooey, Melty Cheese – The combination of warm, stretchy cheese wrapped in soft, golden dough makes for an addictive treat.
• Garlic Butter Goodness – The brushed-on garlic butter adds a rich, savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.
• Versatile and Customizable – You can use different cheeses, add herbs, or even stuff them with extras like jalapeños or cooked meat for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve them as an appetizer, party snack, or side dish. They pair well with soups, salads, and pasta.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 cheese bombs
• Serving Size: 1 cheese bomb

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

To make these delicious garlic butter cheese bombs, you will need:

For the Cheese Bombs:

• 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade dough)
• 12 cubes of mozzarella cheese (or any preferred cheese)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for dusting)

For the Garlic Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Toppings:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

If using refrigerated biscuit dough, separate the biscuits. If using homemade dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 12 equal portions. Flatten each piece slightly into a circular shape.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough piece. Carefully fold the edges up and over the cheese, pinching the seams together to seal completely. Roll gently in your hands to form a smooth ball.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the sealed cheese bombs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for expansion.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese bombs are golden brown and puffed up.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the cheese bombs are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter

As soon as the cheese bombs come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Enjoy these delicious garlic butter cheese bombs while they are warm and melty. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredient Background

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella is the best choice for these cheese bombs due to its excellent meltability and mild, creamy taste. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is the key to rich, aromatic butter. Using minced garlic releases its full flavor, giving the cheese bombs an irresistible garlicky aroma.

Biscuit Dough

Using refrigerated biscuit dough makes this recipe incredibly convenient. However, for a more homemade feel, you can use pizza dough, crescent roll dough, or even a simple bread dough.

Technique Tips

• Seal Properly – Ensure the dough is completely sealed around the cheese to prevent any leaks during baking.
• Use Chilled Cheese – Cold cheese holds its shape better and prevents excessive melting before the dough bakes through.
• Even Size – Keep all dough portions the same size for uniform baking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Pull-Apart Style – Arrange the cheese bombs close together in a skillet for a pull-apart bread effect.
• Garlic Knots Variation – Twist the dough into knots before stuffing with cheese and baking.
• Mini Cheese Bombs – Make bite-sized versions for a fun appetizer option.

Additional Tips for Success

• Brush a second layer of garlic butter after baking for extra flavor.
• Let the cheese bombs rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth with hot cheese.
• Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving for an elevated taste.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Cheese Bombs – Add diced jalapeños inside or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.
• Herb & Cheese Bombs – Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into the dough for an earthy twist.
• Pizza Stuffed Bombs – Add a small piece of pepperoni along with the cheese for a pizza-style version.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cheese bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cheese bombs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole wheat dough for added fiber.
• Substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
• Use low-fat mozzarella to reduce the fat content.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Nights: Serve with buffalo sauce and ranch for a fun snack.
• Holiday Dinners: Pair them with soups like tomato bisque for a cozy appetizer.
• Potlucks: Bring a tray of these warm, cheesy bites for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush for butter glaze
• Small saucepan for garlic butter

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cheese bombs ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. If you are preparing them in advance, place the unbaked cheese bombs on a baking sheet, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. If you need to store them longer, you can also freeze unbaked cheese bombs and bake them directly from frozen.

2. What’s the best cheese to use?

Mozzarella is the best choice for a classic gooey texture, but you can experiment with other cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar provides a sharper flavor, gouda adds a smoky touch, and pepper jack brings a mild spice. If you want an ultra-stretchy cheese pull effect, you can use a combination of mozzarella and provolone. Avoid crumbly cheeses like feta or blue cheese, as they won’t melt properly.

3. Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes! For an extra crispy and indulgent variation, you can deep-fry the cheese bombs instead of baking them. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry each cheese bomb for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to seal the dough well to prevent the cheese from leaking into the oil. Drain them on a paper towel after frying and immediately brush them with garlic butter for the best flavor.

4. What dipping sauces go well with cheese bombs?

Cheese bombs taste fantastic on their own, but dipping sauces elevate their flavor. Some great pairings include:

• Marinara sauce – A classic tomato-based sauce that complements the cheese and garlic flavors.
• Ranch dressing – Creamy and tangy, adding a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy center.
• Garlic aioli – A rich, garlicky mayo-based sauce for extra indulgence.
• Honey mustard – Sweet and tangy, offering a unique twist.
• Buffalo sauce – For those who love a spicy kick.
• Pesto sauce – A fresh, herby alternative with basil and garlic notes.

5. Why did my cheese leak out?

Cheese leakage can occur if the dough isn’t properly sealed or if the cheese melts too quickly. Here’s how to prevent it:

• Seal the dough completely – Pinch the edges together firmly and roll the cheese bombs in your hands to ensure they are tightly closed.
• Use cold cheese – Chilled cheese melts more slowly, reducing the risk of it oozing out before the dough has set.
• Avoid overfilling – Using too large a cheese cube may stretch the dough too thin, causing it to break during baking.
• Bake at the right temperature – Too high a temperature can cause the cheese to expand too quickly and burst through the dough.

6. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! To make gluten-free cheese bombs, use a gluten-free biscuit dough or pizza dough. Many stores sell gluten-free refrigerated dough options, but you can also make your own using gluten-free flour. Be sure to check all other ingredients, including seasonings and dipping sauces, to ensure they are gluten-free.

7. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

If you have leftover cheese bombs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain their crispiness.
• Air fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for a quick and crispy result.
• Microwave: While convenient, microwaving may make them slightly soggy. Heat in 10-second intervals until warm.

8. Can I use pizza dough instead of biscuit dough?

Absolutely! Pizza dough works wonderfully and gives the cheese bombs a slightly chewier texture compared to the soft, flaky biscuit dough. If using pizza dough, roll it out and cut it into even pieces before wrapping the cheese cubes. Pizza dough may take a few extra minutes to bake, so keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown.

9. Can I add extra fillings?

Yes! While the classic version is just cheese, you can customize your cheese bombs by adding:

• Pepperoni slices – For a pizza-style twist.
• Cooked bacon bits – Adds a smoky crunch.
• Jalapeño slices – For a spicy kick.
• Caramelized onions – Brings a hint of sweetness.
• Olives or sun-dried tomatoes – A Mediterranean-inspired variation.
  When adding fillings, be sure to keep the portions small so the dough can still seal properly.

10. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air frying is a great alternative for a quicker and crispier result. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the cheese bombs for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Brush with garlic butter after air frying for the best flavor.

11. How can I make a healthier version of cheese bombs?

To lighten up the recipe, try these modifications:

• Use whole wheat dough instead of white flour-based dough for extra fiber.
• Swap butter for olive oil in the garlic glaze for a heart-healthier option.
• Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat content.
• Limit the garlic butter or use a light brush instead of a full coating.

12. What events are these cheese bombs best for?

These cheese bombs are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Game nights – A great finger food for watching sports.
• Holiday gatherings – Serve as an appetizer for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s parties.
• Potlucks – Easy to transport and always a crowd favorite.
• Kids’ lunches – A fun alternative to regular sandwiches.
• Casual dinners – Serve alongside soups, pasta, or salads for a delicious side dish.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs are the ultimate cheesy, garlicky indulgence—crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, and bursting with buttery flavor. Whether you bake them or fry them, serve them with dipping sauces, or enjoy them on their own, these cheese bombs are guaranteed to be a hit. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different cheeses, fillings, and flavors to suit your taste.

Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even just a snack to satisfy your cheese cravings, these cheese bombs are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to disappear quickly. Try making a batch today, and watch as they become a new favorite in your household!