Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown ball of dough, only to be met with a burst of gooey mozzarella, infused with the rich flavor of garlic butter and a touch of Parmesan. That’s the magic of Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Balls—a heavenly combination of crisp, cheesy, and garlicky goodness that’s perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is a simple yet genius hack using Pillsbury Grands! refrigerated biscuits, transforming them into irresistible cheese-filled treats in just a few easy steps. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or serving a delicious side for dinner, these garlic butter cheese balls are sure to impress.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can elevate store-bought biscuits into a savory crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. It’s the perfect way to turn ordinary biscuits into something extraordinary.
Ingredients Breakdown
The Pillsbury Biscuit Base
Pillsbury Grands! biscuits are a convenient, ready-to-use refrigerated dough that makes home baking incredibly easy. Each can comes with pre-portioned dough, eliminating the need to measure or mix ingredients. These biscuits bake up fluffy and golden, serving as the perfect base for creative recipes like these garlic butter cheese balls. Pillsbury biscuits are versatile, making them ideal for a wide range of dishes beyond breakfast—whether you’re making savory appetizers, like this recipe, or sweet treats, they save you time without sacrificing quality.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella is the perfect cheese for this recipe because of its excellent melting properties. When heated, mozzarella becomes soft and gooey, giving you that irresistible cheesy pull when you bite into the biscuit. It has a mild flavor that pairs well with the rich garlic butter and the sharpness of Parmesan. If you want to switch things up, other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack can be used for a different flavor twist. Each brings its own unique texture and taste while still maintaining that cheesy melt.
Garlic Butter
Butter plays a crucial role in adding richness to the dough balls, helping them bake up golden and giving them a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The addition of minced garlic infuses the butter with a bold, aromatic flavor that makes these cheese balls irresistibly savory. Garlic is the star here, offering that signature bite that balances out the creaminess of the cheese and the richness of the butter.
Parmesan Cheese
Grated Parmesan adds a savory, umami punch that elevates the flavor profile of these cheese balls. Its salty, nutty taste complements the gooey mozzarella inside. For an alternative, you can use Pecorino Romano, which offers a slightly sharper flavor.
Optional Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of brightness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the cheese and butter. If you want to experiment with other herbs, thyme or rosemary would bring a more earthy, aromatic quality to the flavor mix.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) is a crucial step to ensure your garlic butter cheese balls bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. An oven that’s too cool will cause the biscuits to bake slowly, resulting in a dense, undercooked center, while an oven that’s too hot may burn the exterior before the cheese inside has melted properly. Preheating guarantees that the cheese balls puff up quickly and bake to perfection.
Step 2: Preparing the Biscuits
Once the oven is preheating, open the can of Pillsbury Grands! biscuits. Separate the dough into individual biscuits and then carefully cut each one in half, creating 16 smaller portions. Be sure to use a sharp knife or dough cutter to maintain clean, uniform pieces, which will help the cheese balls bake evenly. Gently flatten each piece to create a surface large enough to wrap around a cube of cheese, but don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
Step 3: Cheese Filling Technique
Take a cube of mozzarella cheese and place it in the center of each flattened dough piece. Wrap the dough around the cheese, ensuring that all edges are pinched together tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking. Form the dough into a ball by gently rolling it between your hands, sealing any seams.
Step 4: Arranging on the Baking Sheet
Place the cheese-filled dough balls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. The seam-side down placement helps prevent them from opening while baking, keeping the cheese safely inside. Make sure to leave enough space between each dough ball—about 1 inch—so they bake evenly without touching.
Step 5: Making the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. To avoid burning, melt it slowly either in the microwave or on the stovetop at low heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt to the melted butter, stirring to combine. Be sure the garlic is evenly minced to prevent large chunks that can overpower the flavor. This garlic-infused butter will enhance the overall flavor of the cheese balls.
Step 6: Brushing with Garlic Butter
Use a pastry brush to generously coat each dough ball with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure every surface is covered, as this helps the dough bake up golden and crispy while adding a rich, savory flavor.
Step 7: Baking to Golden Perfection
Bake the garlic butter cheese balls for 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking—look for a beautifully browned exterior and a puffed-up shape. Avoid underbaking, which can leave the dough raw inside, or overbaking, which can dry out the cheese.
Step 8: Finishing Touches with Parmesan and Parsley
Once out of the oven, immediately brush the cheese balls with any remaining garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor. While the cheese balls are still warm, sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, savory boost. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich flavors.
Step 9: Serving Warm and Gooey
For the best experience, serve the cheese balls while they’re still warm and gooey. This ensures the mozzarella is at its melted, stretchy peak, and the biscuits are soft and buttery. If needed, reheat leftovers in the oven to restore their crispness and warmth before enjoying again.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Adding Different Cheeses
While mozzarella is a classic choice for its gooey texture, feel free to get creative with other cheeses for a unique flavor twist. Cheddar can add a sharp, tangy bite that complements the richness of the garlic butter. Brie is a decadent option that melts into a creamy center, making each bite even more indulgent. For a more Mediterranean vibe, try feta, which doesn’t melt as much but offers a salty, crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with herbs. Each cheese brings its own character to the dish, so experiment to find your favorite combination.
Experimenting with Dough
Though Pillsbury Grands! biscuits are a convenient and delicious choice, other pre-made dough options can be equally successful. Croissant dough will create a lighter, flakier texture with a buttery finish that pairs beautifully with the garlic butter. Pizza dough offers a chewier bite, making the cheese balls more like mini calzones. You can even try crescent roll dough for a soft, pillowy texture that bakes up golden and tender. Each dough type slightly alters the overall experience, allowing you to customize based on your preferences.
Flavoring the Butter
To elevate the garlic butter even further, try adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the mix. These herbs bring extra depth and a layer of aromatic flavor that complements the garlic. Rosemary adds a piney, earthy note, thyme brings a subtle lemony taste, and oregano offers a savory, Mediterranean touch. You can also sprinkle dried herbs directly onto the cheese balls before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
Customizing with Toppings
For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter or sprinkle them on top of the cheese balls before baking. This simple addition brings a spicy kick that balances the richness of the cheese and butter. You can also use flavored Parmesan, such as garlic-Parmesan or truffle-Parmesan, to intensify the savory flavor. A light dusting of Italian seasoning can also enhance the flavor profile, adding a hint of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
Using Dips and Sauces
Serve these garlic butter cheese balls with a variety of dips to elevate them even further. Marinara sauce adds a tangy, tomato-based complement that pairs well with the cheesy, garlicky flavors. Ranch dressing offers a cool, creamy contrast, while garlic aioli intensifies the garlic flavor, creating a rich and savory dipping experience. Other great options include spicy sriracha mayo or even a honey mustard dip for a sweet and tangy twist.
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Tips
These cheese balls are a fantastic make-ahead option. You can assemble them ahead of time, but instead of baking, store them in the fridge for up to a day. Alternatively, freeze them for later use. To freeze, arrange the unbaked cheese balls on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This tip makes them a perfect option for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
Pairing Suggestions and Occasions to Serve
Perfect Party Appetizer
Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Balls are an ideal appetizer for parties and gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to eat with your hands, and the cheesy, garlicky flavor is universally loved, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. These cheese balls can be prepared ahead of time, baked just before the event, and served warm, ensuring your guests are treated to delicious, gooey bites of cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a casual game night, a holiday dinner, or a backyard barbecue, they fit right in with any party menu.
Pairing with Soups and Salads
These cheese balls are also the perfect side dish to complement a variety of soups and salads. Pair them with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a classic combination, much like grilled cheese and tomato soup, where the creamy cheese filling balances the acidity of the tomatoes. They also work well alongside a crisp Caesar salad, where the garlicky, buttery flavor mirrors the garlic in the salad dressing. You could also serve them with soups like broccoli cheddar or French onion, which both pair wonderfully with a cheesy, savory side.
Snack or Side Dish Ideas
Beyond appetizers, these cheese balls make for a satisfying snack or side dish. Serve them as a quick snack on busy afternoons, or use them as a side for pasta or pizza nights. The garlic butter and cheese complement Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs or a classic margherita pizza, adding a delicious, rich component to the meal. Their versatility makes them a great addition to many dinner themes.
Great for Kids and Families
Kids will especially love this recipe due to the warm, gooey cheese filling hidden inside each ball. These cheese balls are fun to eat, and their mild flavors make them appealing even to picky eaters. You can make them a fun family cooking activity, letting the kids help with rolling the dough and stuffing the cheese. They’re also an excellent addition to lunchboxes or family movie nights, making them a hit with both children and adults alike.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Adaptations
Basic Nutritional Information
On average, each garlic butter cheese ball contains approximately 150-180 calories, depending on the size of the cheese cubes and the amount of butter used. Each serving typically provides about 10 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein. The fat content comes primarily from the butter and cheese, while the carbohydrates come from the biscuit dough. Parmesan and mozzarella cheese contribute a small amount of protein. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Making It Healthier
If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe without sacrificing flavor, consider a few simple substitutions. Use whole-wheat dough instead of regular biscuit dough to add fiber, which promotes digestion and helps keep you full longer. Opting for light mozzarella can reduce the fat content while still providing that satisfying cheesy texture. Additionally, you can decrease the amount of butter or use light butter to lower the overall calories and fat without losing the rich, buttery flavor.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Variations
For those with gluten sensitivities, you can easily adapt this recipe by using gluten-free biscuit dough, available in many supermarkets. Gluten-free dough may bake up a bit differently, but it still creates a delicious base for the cheese balls. For those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, substitute regular mozzarella with vegan cheese, which melts similarly but is free from dairy. Use dairy-free butter or margarine to maintain the richness of the garlic butter without the lactose. These substitutions allow you to enjoy the garlic butter cheese balls while catering to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
This recipe for Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Balls is not only incredibly simple to prepare but also offers endless possibilities for customization. With just a few ingredients—refrigerated biscuits, mozzarella cheese, garlic, and butter—you can create a warm, cheesy treat in no time. Whether you prefer to experiment with different cheeses, enhance the flavor with herbs, or serve them alongside your favorite dips, these cheese balls are versatile enough for any occasion.
Perfect for parties, family meals, or a quick snack, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. So, why not give this recipe a try? With its irresistible combination of gooey cheese and garlicky butter, it’s the kind of dish that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Get creative and make these cheese balls your own—they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of biscuit dough?
Yes, you can easily substitute the Pillsbury Grands! biscuits with other dough options like crescent roll dough or pizza dough. Crescent rolls will give a flakier, lighter texture, while pizza dough provides a chewier bite, allowing you to experiment with the base to suit your preferences.
Can I make these cheese balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese balls in advance by assembling them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them by placing the assembled dough balls on a baking sheet until frozen, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if the cheese leaks out while baking?
To prevent the cheese from leaking, make sure the dough is tightly sealed around the cheese cubes. Pinch the seams well, and place the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet. This helps keep the cheese contained while baking.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cheese balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven for a few minutes at a low temperature to restore their crispness, or use the microwave for a quick option, although this may make the exterior softer.
Can I add extra flavors or seasonings to this recipe?
Yes! You can personalize the flavor by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter. For a spicier kick, sprinkle in paprika or red pepper flakes. These additions give the cheese balls a more complex flavor profile.
What other dips can I serve with these cheese balls?
These cheese balls pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Serve them with marinara sauce for a classic combination, or try ranch dressing for a cool contrast. A cheesy dip or garlic aioli would also be great options for dipping.

Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Balls
- Author: Christine
Description
These easy-to-make garlic butter cheese balls, made with Pillsbury biscuits, are a deliciously cheesy snack or appetizer. With gooey melted cheese inside and a crispy, golden garlic butter exterior, they’re perfect for parties or a quick treat!
Ingredients
- 1 can (16.3 oz) Pillsbury Grands! refrigerated biscuits
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2️⃣ Prepare the biscuits: Open the can of Pillsbury biscuits and separate the dough into 8 biscuits. Cut each biscuit in half to create 16 pieces.
3️⃣ Fill with cheese: Flatten each biscuit piece slightly, then place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Wrap the dough around the cheese, pinching the seams tightly to seal and forming a ball.
4️⃣ Arrange on baking sheet: Place the cheese-filled dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5️⃣ Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic and a pinch of salt.
6️⃣ Brush with garlic butter: Brush each dough ball generously with the garlic butter mixture.
7️⃣ Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and puffed.
8️⃣ Finish with Parmesan and parsley: Remove the cheese balls from the oven and immediately brush them with any remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top.
9️⃣ Serve warm: Let the cheese balls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them while they’re warm and gooey!
Notes
- Cheese options: You can use other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Dipping sauce: These cheese balls pair well with marinara, ranch, or garlic butter dipping sauce.
- Make-ahead: You can assemble the cheese balls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.