Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
I know, some days especially with work, kids, and endless to-do lists, the kitchen can seem to be waging war and the last thing I ever want complicated dinners. This is where the delightful Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs step in. Juicy ground beef and cheese that oozes up wrapped up in warm pizza dough-they are perfect finger food for busy nights or even on casual get-togethers. Trust me- your family will love it and you will love creating it. Anyway, let’s dive into this adventure in cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are the cheeseburger you can take on-the-go – delicious! These little bites of yum take only 35 minutes to whip up, so they are fast to make, and they have a crispy-golden crust with gooey cheese filling that warrants everyone asking for seconds – ideal for busy weeknights or when hosting game day!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
To create these irresistible Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, you’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry staple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef: The heart of the bombs, I recommend an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Yellow Onion: Finely diced, it adds a subtle sweetness. You can also swap it with shallots for a more refined flavor.
- Garlic: Minced cloves bring that aromatic punch. Fresh garlic is best, but you can use powdered in a pinch.
- Italian Breadcrumbs: They bind the mixture together and give it a lovely texture. If you have plain breadcrumbs, those can work too.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of this umami-packed sauce enhances the beef flavor. Look for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Dried Oregano: Just a teaspoon for that Italian flair. You can easily mix it up with other dried herbs like basil or thyme.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, always adjust according to your taste preferences!
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds delightful creaminess. Feel free to mix in your favorite cheese blend or try pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Refrigerated Pizza Dough: Think of it as your delicious envelope of goodness. You can make dough from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious, but store-bought is a real time-saver!
- Butter: Melted, this brush will give the bombs a golden, crispy finish. For a healthier twist, use olive oil instead.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlic flavor; if you’re a garlic lover, sprinkle a bit more for an extra punch.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: For that cheesy top finish, it gives a nice salty kick and complements the garlic beautifully.
- Fresh Parsley: This is optional, but a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making your bombs look gourmet!
For exact measurements and nutritional information, check the bottom of the article where everything is available for printing.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven according to the pizza dough packaging instructions. This step is crucial! A hot oven means perfectly golden-brown bombs. Trust me, you want that irresistible crunch.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan. Using a spatula, break it apart while it cooks. Brown the beef until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You’ll want to drain any excess fat for a leaner filling.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, toss in the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion softens. This part smells amazing! The aroma of garlic will make you feel like a gourmet chef.
Step 4: Mix the Filling
It’s time to mix that filling. In the skillet, stir in the Italian breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Combine everything thoroughly. Then, remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt and bind everything together.
Step 5: Prepare the Pizza Dough
Now, roll out your refrigerated pizza dough on a floured surface. It should be about ¼ inch thick. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into even squares. Think of these squares as little envelopes waiting to be filled with deliciousness!
Step 6: Assemble the Bombs
Time to fill those dough squares! Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each square. Don’t be shy; more is better! Carefully fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal. You want them well sealed to keep all the yummy goodness inside.
Step 7: Brush and Season
Grab that melted butter and use a pastry brush to coat the tops of each bomb. This will give them a delicious golden finish. Sprinkle each one with garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese. They’ll look so enticing, you might want to snack on them before baking!
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Finally, place the assembled bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake according to the dough package directions, usually about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and take them out once they’re golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, and don’t forget the fresh parsley garnish if you’re feeling fancy!
Tips for Success
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Don’t overfill your dough squares; they need room to expand while baking!
- For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños or your favorite spices to the beef mixture.
- Make ahead! Prepare and freeze the assembled bombs for busier nights.
- Always let them cool briefly after baking to avoid burns when biting in.
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: A non-stick works wonders, but any skillet will do.
- Mixing Spoon: Use a heavy-duty spatula or even a wooden spoon.
- Rolling Pin: A simple wine bottle can work in a pinch!
- Baking Sheet: Make sure it’s lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Pastry Brush: An old toothbrush can work for buttering the tops!
Variations
- Swap the Ground Beef: Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. They still pack plenty of flavor!
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a stretchy texture or feta for a Mediterranean twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a delicious veggie bomb.
- Add Spices: For a little heat, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the beef mix.
- Puff Pastry Substitute: If you’re feeling adventurous, use puff pastry instead of pizza dough for an extra flaky delight!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Serve alongside sweet potato fries or crispy potato wedges for extra crunch.
- A cold soda or iced tea complements these bombs beautifully.
- Present them on a colorful platter for an inviting party spread.
- Offer dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or garlic aioli for a fun twist!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bombs and freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a quick meal.
What dipping sauces pair well with these bombs?
Dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or even a spicy mayo add fantastic flavor to these tasty bombs. Feel free to get creative!
Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken make great substitutes. They can still deliver delicious flavor without the extra calories.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Are these bombs suitable for kids?
Definitely! Kids love finger foods, and with their cheesy, savory goodness, these bombs are sure to be a hit. You can also hide some veggies in the filling for a sneaky boost of nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Making Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful memories with your loved ones. The ease of preparation combined with the delightful taste makes this dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they bite into these warm, cheesy delights! These bombs are a simple yet delicious reminder that home-cooked meals can bring us together, even in the busiest of times. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this culinary adventure!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs you can’t resist!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Delicious Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, filled with savory beef and melted cheese, wrapped in golden-brown pizza dough.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, 80/20 blend
- Yellow Onion: ½ medium, finely diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Italian Breadcrumbs: ½ cup
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup
- Refrigerated Pizza Dough: 1 (13.8 oz) can
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to pizza dough packaging instructions.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, stirring until fully cooked.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
- Stir in Italian breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and combine well.
- Remove from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut into equal squares.
- Place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each dough square.
- Fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges tightly to form bombs.
- Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake the bombs in the oven until golden brown and cooked through, according to dough package directions.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Experiment with different cheeses for a variety of flavors.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like diced pickles or jalapeños for extra kick.
- Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bomb
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg