In today’s fast-paced world, quick and easy appetizer recipes have become a favorite for many home cooks and party hosts alike. Among these, Pillsbury-based recipes hold a special place due to their simplicity and versatility. With pre-packaged biscuit dough, busy cooks can whip up delicious creations in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or spontaneous snack cravings.

One such crowd-pleaser is garlic butter cheese bombs. These bite-sized delights are stuffed with gooey melted cheese, brushed with flavorful garlic butter, and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving them as a fun snack, an appetizer before dinner, or a side dish, these cheese bombs are sure to impress. Best of all, they require only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making them a go-to option for both beginner and experienced cooks. From casual weeknight dinners to family get-togethers, garlic butter cheese bombs are a must-try recipe that combines ease with indulgence.

Why Pillsbury Biscuits Are a Great Choice

One of the main reasons Pillsbury biscuit dough is a fantastic choice for this recipe is the sheer convenience it offers. No need to spend time making dough from scratch—simply pop open a container of refrigerated Pillsbury biscuits, and you’re halfway done with your recipe. This is particularly helpful for busy families or those looking for a quick solution to satisfy snack cravings.

Beyond convenience, Pillsbury biscuits are incredibly versatile. While they are commonly used for breakfast dishes like biscuits and gravy, their adaptability goes far beyond morning meals. From savory dinners to sweet desserts, this dough can be used for everything from casseroles to pizza bases.

In the case of garlic butter cheese bombs, the texture and consistency of Pillsbury biscuits are ideal. The dough bakes up fluffy and golden, perfectly encasing whatever fillings you choose. Whether you’re working with cheese, meats, or even sweet fillings, the biscuit dough holds everything together while adding its own rich, buttery flavor to the mix.

Ingredients Breakdown

Pillsbury Biscuit Dough: The star ingredient of this recipe, Pillsbury refrigerated biscuit dough is ready-to-use and eliminates the need for time-consuming dough preparation. Each biscuit bakes up tender and fluffy, making it the perfect base for wrapping delicious fillings.
Mozzarella Cheese: For these cheese bombs, mozzarella is a great choice because it melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey center. You can use either shredded mozzarella or diced string cheese. The latter option ensures a consistent, even cheese filling inside each bomb, while shredded mozzarella provides a creamier texture.
Butter: Melted butter serves two important roles in this recipe. First, it adds richness to the biscuit dough, complementing its slightly sweet taste. Second, it’s used to coat the tops of the cheese bombs, giving them a beautifully golden crust and extra flavor.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is mixed with the melted butter to infuse each bite with the classic savory flavor of garlic. It’s an easy way to enhance the overall taste of the bombs without overpowering the cheese filling.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor to the butter mixture. This elevates the simple cheese bombs into a more gourmet appetizer.
Salt: Just a pinch of salt is needed to enhance the other flavors, balancing the richness of the cheese and butter.
Optional Ingredients: For added variety, you can incorporate extras like diced pepperoni, ham, or fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary into the cheese filling. These variations add more layers of flavor and can customize the bombs to suit different tastes or occasions.

Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips

Preparation Steps

Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Baking Sheet
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking when the biscuits are prepared. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This will prevent the cheese bombs from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Flattening and Filling the Biscuits
Open the Pillsbury biscuit container and separate the 8 biscuits. Using your hands or a rolling pin, gently flatten each biscuit into a 3-inch circle. Make sure not to flatten them too much, as you want the dough to retain some thickness to hold the cheese inside. Place about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella or a diced piece of string cheese in the center of each flattened biscuit. If you’re adding any optional fillings like pepperoni, place them on top of the cheese.
Sealing the Dough
To avoid cheese leakage during baking, it’s essential to seal the dough properly. Fold the edges of the biscuit dough around the cheese and pinch the seams together. Make sure there are no gaps or openings. Roll each filled biscuit into a smooth ball shape with the seam-side down on the baking sheet. This step helps create the signature “bomb” look and prevents the cheese from oozing out while baking.
Brushing with Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Generously brush the tops of the biscuit bombs with this seasoned butter. This not only adds flavor but also ensures a crispy, golden-brown crust. You can reserve some of the butter for a second brushing halfway through the bake for extra richness.

Baking Process

Once your cheese bombs are prepared, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, keeping a close eye on them as they near the end of the bake time. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.

To check for doneness, look for a firm, crisp outer crust while ensuring the bottoms don’t burn. If the tops brown too quickly, you can cover them lightly with foil for the remainder of the baking time.

To avoid overcooking, remove the cheese bombs from the oven as soon as they turn golden brown. Overbaking can cause the cheese to harden and the biscuits to dry out, so it’s important to monitor them closely. Let the cheese bombs cool for a couple of minutes before serving to avoid any burns from the hot cheese filling.

Serving Suggestions

Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They make a fantastic snack or appetizer for casual get-togethers, game nights, or as a fun treat for kids.

Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli, to enhance the flavor. You can also serve them as a side dish alongside soups, salads, or pasta for a complete meal.

Additionally, these cheese bombs are perfect for brunch spreads or as a savory addition to lunchboxes. Their handheld size and cheesy goodness make them a crowd favorite for any occasion.

Creative Recipe Variations

Different Cheese Options
While mozzarella is a classic choice for cheese bombs, you can experiment with other types of cheese to change up the flavor profile. Cheddar offers a sharper, more robust taste, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick. For a more sophisticated twist, try gouda, which brings a creamy, slightly smoky flavor to the bombs. These cheese varieties melt beautifully and create a different flavor experience with each bite.
Adding Protein
To make the garlic butter cheese bombs heartier, you can stuff them with proteins. Diced pepperoni is a popular choice for adding a savory, pizza-like flavor. You can also use ham, bacon, or even crumbled sausage for a meaty bite. These additions turn the cheese bombs into a more filling snack or even a light meal.
Herb and Spice Enhancements
Fresh herbs and spices can elevate the flavor of the cheese bombs. Adding chopped rosemary or parsley to the garlic butter creates an aromatic, herb-infused crust. For those who like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the cheese filling or onto the butter-brushed tops for a spicy kick.
Stuffed Jalapeño Cheese Bombs
For a bolder, spicy variation, turn your cheese bombs into Stuffed Jalapeño Cheese Bombs. Simply add a slice of jalapeño inside the dough along with the cheese. The spicy peppers pair perfectly with the melted cheese and garlic butter, creating an irresistible, fiery snack.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs

Preventing Cheese Leakage
One of the biggest challenges when making cheese bombs is preventing the cheese from leaking out during baking. To avoid this, make sure the dough is thoroughly sealed around the filling. Pinch the edges tightly, and double-check for any gaps before rolling the dough into a ball. You can also slightly overlap the dough as you fold it, ensuring the cheese stays inside as it melts.
Achieving a Crisp Texture
A crispy, golden-brown exterior makes these cheese bombs even more delicious. To get that perfect crust, generously brush the tops with melted butter before baking. For extra crispness, brush them a second time with garlic butter halfway through the bake. This adds an extra layer of richness and ensures the dough bakes evenly.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover cheese bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and retain their freshness, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or use an air fryer for a crispier result. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the dough soggy.

Healthier Alternatives

Using Whole Wheat Biscuit Dough
For a healthier twist on this recipe, consider using whole wheat biscuit dough instead of regular dough. Whole wheat provides more fiber and nutrients while still offering a delicious, slightly nutty flavor. The texture remains light and fluffy, so you won’t miss the traditional dough.
Lighter Cheese Options
To reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor, opt for low-fat mozzarella or dairy-free cheese alternatives. These cheeses still melt beautifully but contain less fat, making the cheese bombs a bit lighter. If you’re looking to reduce dairy altogether, plant-based cheese options can also work well in this recipe.
Reducing Butter Content
While butter adds richness to the recipe, you can cut down on the amount without compromising too much on flavor. Try brushing the biscuits with olive oil or using a butter spray as a lighter alternative. These options still give you that crispy exterior while lowering the overall fat content.

FAQs Section

Can I use other types of dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use other types of dough if you don’t have Pillsbury biscuit dough on hand. Crescent roll dough is a great alternative and will give the cheese bombs a slightly flakier texture. Simply follow the same steps for filling and sealing, but be mindful that crescent dough is thinner, so you may want to handle it more gently. Pizza dough is another option, providing a chewier, more substantial bite. Just flatten the pizza dough into circles and fill them the same way. You can also experiment with homemade biscuit dough if you prefer a from-scratch approach.
What dipping sauces go best with garlic butter cheese bombs?
Garlic butter cheese bombs pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces. Marinara sauce is a classic choice that complements the Italian seasoning and garlic flavors. If you want something creamier, ranch dressing or garlic aioli are excellent options. For a spicy-sweet contrast, try dipping the bombs in spicy honey or hot honey, which adds an unexpected but delicious kick. You can also experiment with flavored oils or pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
To prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking, it’s important to properly seal the dough around the cheese. After placing the cheese in the center of the dough, fold the edges inward and pinch them together tightly, ensuring no gaps. Rolling the dough ball between your hands can help reinforce the seal. Additionally, try to use cheese that doesn’t release too much moisture when it melts. String cheese or firm mozzarella tends to work better than softer cheeses that may ooze out.
Can I make these cheese bombs in an air fryer?
Yes, garlic butter cheese bombs can easily be adapted for an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the prepared cheese bombs seam-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. You can check for doneness halfway through and apply more garlic butter if desired. The air fryer method gives you crispy cheese bombs without needing to heat up the oven, making it an even faster option.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftover cheese bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy. Instead, place the cheese bombs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for about 3-4 minutes to regain their crispiness and warmth.
Can I make these cheese bombs ahead of time?
Yes, these cheese bombs can be prepped in advance. To do this, assemble the bombs and place them on a baking sheet. Instead of baking immediately, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, brush them with garlic butter and bake as directed. This makes it easy to have fresh, hot cheese bombs on demand without any last-minute fuss.

Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

These easy-to-make garlic butter cheese bombs are the perfect bite-sized treat, stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese and topped with a flavorful garlic butter coating. Using Pillsbury biscuit dough as a base, these cheesy delights are ideal for appetizers, snacks, or even side dishes. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite at any gathering. Customize the filling with different cheeses, herbs, or proteins to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (16 oz) container refrigerated Pillsbury biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
4 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded or diced string cheese)
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pinch of salt
(Optional) Diced pepperoni, ham, or fresh herbs for variation

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
Open the Pillsbury biscuit container and separate the 8 biscuits. Flatten each biscuit into a 3-inch circle using your hands or a rolling pin.
Place about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella or a diced piece of string cheese in the center of each flattened biscuit. (If adding optional fillings like pepperoni or herbs, place them on top of the cheese.)
Fold the dough around the cheese and pinch the edges together tightly to seal. Roll each filled biscuit into a ball and place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Generously brush the tops of the dough balls with the garlic butter mixture.
Bake the cheese bombs for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
Remove from the oven and brush with any remaining garlic butter if desired. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.

Notes

Sealing the Dough: Make sure to pinch the edges tightly when sealing the dough to prevent any cheese from leaking out during baking.
Customizing Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for varied flavor profiles. You can also add meats like diced ham, pepperoni, or crumbled sausage for extra heartiness.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or an air fryer to regain crispiness.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cheese bombs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just brush with garlic butter and pop them into the oven when ready to bake.