Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are little pockets of pure comfort filled with juicy cheeseburger goodness, rich garlic flavor, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The dough is soft and golden, hugging a melty center of seasoned beef and gooey cheese that’s just begging to be devoured.
I love making these because they’re fun to share and perfect for parties or casual nights at home. I like to pop them out of the oven when they’re warm and gooey, which makes every bite feel extra special. Plus, I find that adding a little extra garlic butter on top before baking really boosts the flavor and keeps them nice and moist — a little tip I swear by!
These cheeseburger bombs go great with a simple side of pickles or a fresh salad to balance out all that cheesy richness. They’re the kind of snack that everyone reaches for first, and honestly, I always have to remind myself not to eat them all in one sitting. They’re little bursts of cheeseburger joy that make any day a bit better.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef
- Choose lean beef for less grease. If you prefer, turkey or plant-based ground meat works well and offers a lighter option.
- Pizza Dough
- Refrigerated dough is convenient, but you can also use homemade dough for extra flavor. Biscuit dough or crescent roll dough are fun substitutes too.
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Fresh shredded mozzarella melts wonderfully here. You can swap for provolone, cheddar, or a cheese blend if you like a sharper taste.
- Parmesan Cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and crust texture. If unavailable, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese make great substitutes.
- Garlic & Butter
- Fresh minced garlic shines in the butter glaze for a punch of flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh really elevates the taste.
How Do You Make Sure the Dough Balls Seal Properly?
Sealing the dough well is key so the filling doesn’t leak during baking. Here’s my method:
- Place filling in the center but don’t overfill; leave enough dough around the edges.
- Moisten the edges with a little water or beaten egg to help the dough stick together.
- Pinch the edges firmly, then gently roll the ball in your hands to smooth and fully seal.
- Place seam side down on the baking sheet—this helps keep them closed while baking.
Take your time with sealing; it makes all the difference between a neat bomb and a messy one!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to hold all the bombs without crowding so they cook evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Large skillet – for browning the ground beef quickly and evenly.
- Rolling pin – helps you flatten the dough evenly for wrapping the filling.
- Pastry brush – perfect for brushing the garlic butter on top for a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that still tastes great.
- Add diced sautéed mushrooms or onions to the beef for extra flavor and texture.
- Use cheddar or pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a sharper or spicier kick.
- Mix in a little chopped jalapeño or chili powder to the beef for a touch of heat.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For The Dough and Topping:
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (about 13 oz)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Optional: ketchup or marinara sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
It takes about 10 minutes to prep and cook the beef filling, 10 minutes to assemble the bombs, and about 15 to 18 minutes to bake. So plan for roughly 35 to 40 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to keep the bombs from sticking.
2. Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and break it apart until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove the skillet from heat and let the beef cool a bit.
3. Roll and Cut the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle around ¼ inch thick. Cut it into about 9 equal squares for making the bombs.
4. Fill and Shape the Bombs:
Place a spoonful of the cooked beef in the center of each dough square, then add a small handful of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal tightly. Shape each into a nice round ball.
5. Prepare Garlic Butter and Coat:
Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to coat each dough ball with this flavorful mixture. Sprinkle the tops generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake the Bombs:
Place the sealed bombs seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve:
Let the bombs cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup or marinara.
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the dough completely in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out. This helps ensure a smooth, easy-to-handle dough that seals well around the filling.
Can I Make Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bombs and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep 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 minutes to keep the crust crisp and the cheese melty.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor twist.