If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying snack or appetizer that pleases every crowd, Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs are the answer. These bite-sized treats combine flaky Pillsbury biscuits with gooey melted cheese, all coated in garlic butter and Italian seasoning for a flavor-packed experience. Perfect for game days, family get-togethers, or a quick treat, these cheese bombs are easy to make and guaranteed to become a favorite. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or save them for later, they’ll be a delicious addition to any table.
Overview of the Recipe
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With store-bought biscuit dough, mozzarella cheese sticks, and a few pantry ingredients like butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, you can whip up these cheese bombs in no time. Each biscuit wraps the cheese stick snugly, ensuring a satisfying molten center with every bite. The garlic butter glaze gives them an irresistible golden brown finish, making them perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or other favorite dips.
History and Origin
While these Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs are a modern twist, they draw inspiration from two beloved culinary traditions: cheese-stuffed bread and garlic bread. Stuffed breads like calzones and cheese rolls have long roots in Italian cuisine, where they are typically filled with cheese, meats, and spices. Pillsbury biscuits, a favorite convenience product in American households, have become a canvas for creating fun, creative snacks. This recipe represents the fusion of convenience with traditional flavor, perfect for the fast-paced modern kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cheese bombs:
- 1 can Pillsbury biscuits (8-count)
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut in half
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat. This ensures the biscuits cook evenly and turn golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuits
- Open the can of Pillsbury biscuits and separate each biscuit.
- Flatten each biscuit into a round disc with your hands or a rolling pin. Make sure the discs are wide enough to fully wrap the cheese sticks.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Take a half piece of mozzarella cheese stick and place it in the center of each flattened biscuit.
Step 4: Seal the Dough
- Wrap the biscuit dough around the cheese, pinching the seams together tightly to seal the cheese inside. Make sure no gaps are left, or the cheese may leak out while baking.
Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Place each sealed biscuit seam-side down on the baking sheet, leaving space between them for expansion during baking.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to blend the flavors.
Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter
- Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of each cheese-filled biscuit with the garlic butter mixture. This will help them develop a golden, flavorful crust.
Step 8: Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the biscuits turn a beautiful golden brown.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These garlic butter cheese bombs are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dips and sides to enhance the experience:
- Dips: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli.
- Soup: Pair with tomato soup or a hearty vegetable soup for a cozy meal.
- Salads: These bombs also complement light salads like Caesar or arugula salad.
Variations of the Recipe
- Different Cheeses:
- Swap mozzarella with cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for a richer flavor.
- Add Protein:
- Add slices of chicken ham or turkey bacon inside for a heartier snack.
- Herb Variations:
- Experiment with herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary for a different twist.
- Spicy Version:
- Sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes over the garlic butter for a bit of heat.
- Stuffed Pizza Bombs:
- Add small pieces of pepperoni or olives along with the cheese for a pizza-inspired flavor.
Health Benefits Notes
While these Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs are an indulgence, you can make them slightly healthier with a few adjustments:
- Reduced Fat Cheese: Use low-fat mozzarella sticks.
- Whole Wheat Dough: If you prefer homemade dough, using whole wheat flour can add fiber.
- Butter Substitute: Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.
Keep in mind that these treats are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned Pillsbury biscuits?
Yes, homemade biscuit dough works just as well. Make sure to portion it into even sizes and follow the same steps to flatten and seal the cheese inside.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
Cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack are excellent alternatives. You can even mix cheeses for added complexity.
3. How can I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Ensure that the biscuit dough is tightly sealed around the cheese. Using slightly chilled or frozen cheese sticks can also help prevent leakage during baking.
4. Can I prepare these cheese bombs in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the cheese bombs a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for the best results.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the cheese bombs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
6. Can I add extra fillings besides cheese?
Definitely! Add cooked turkey bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or chicken ham slices for a heartier snack.
7. Are these cheese bombs freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cheese bombs before baking. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs are an irresistible treat that combines the warmth of flaky biscuits with the delight of gooey melted cheese. With their crispy, buttery exterior and flavorful garlic seasoning, they are perfect for every occasion—whether it’s a party, family dinner, or late-night craving. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, these cheese bombs are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them out, and watch them disappear faster than you can make them!