Name: Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

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If you are looking for an irresistible appetizer that bursts with flavor in every bite, these Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are exactly what you need. Picture juicy ground beef so tender and seasoned to perfection, wrapped around gooey mozzarella, then coated in fragrant Parmesan cheese with garlic and herbs—each bomb is a little package of pure comfort and delight that’s perfect for game days, parties, or whenever you want to indulge in a cheesy, savory treat. Once you try these, they will become an instant favorite in your recipe rotation!

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on simple, readily available ingredients that each play a vital role in delivering those famous cheesy, garlicky, and cheesy flavors with the perfect texture. From the fresh garlic to the blend of cheeses, every component adds a unique touch that balances and elevates the dish.

1 lb ground beef: The heart of the dish, providing juicy flavor and richness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully inside for that ooey-gooey center.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp crust and savory depth when rolled around the bombs.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the beef with aromatic warmth and a mild kick.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkles freshness and mild herbaceous notes.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture and keeps the texture tender.
1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold everything together flawlessly.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the savory flavors without overpowering.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Offers a gentle onion undertone without being overpowering.
1/2 tsp paprika: Brings a slight smokiness and a beautiful golden color.
Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing: Keeps the baking sheet from sticking and helps achieve a perfect crust.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to a hot 400°F (200°C). This ensures a crispy exterior as the bombs bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray—this simple step prevents sticking and helps create that irresistible golden crust you’re aiming for.

Step 2: Mix the Beef and Seasonings

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the key players: ground beef, minced garlic, fresh parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Mix them gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed. This mixture is where all those savory flavors start to come alive, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Form the Cheeseburger Bombs

Take a small portion of the beef mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a small handful of shredded mozzarella right in the center. Now close the meat around the cheese carefully, sealing it well to avoid any cheese leaking while baking. Shape it into a smooth ball for even cooking.

Step 4: Coat with Parmesan Cheese

Roll each meatball in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully coated. This not only contributes to a crispy, flavorful crust but also gives your cheesy garlic parmesan cheeseburger bombs that signature golden appearance that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange your bombs on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to avoid sticking together. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the outside is beautifully golden and the beef is cooked all the way through. As they bake, the mozzarella inside melts into a liquid center, making every bite spectacular.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes bring additional dimension to these savory morsels. Sprinkling some extra chopped parsley over the warm bombs adds a lovely touch of color and fresh herbal brightness. You can even dust a little more parmesan if you’re a cheese lover. A light drizzle of garlic butter sauce also pairs wonderfully to double down on that rich flavor.

Side Dishes

While these cheesy garlic parmesan cheeseburger bombs pack bold flavors on their own, side dishes help round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For heartier options, try serving them alongside roasted vegetables or crispy oven fries. They also make an amazing snack alongside your favorite dipping sauces like marinara or spicy aioli.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the appetizer plate by turning these bombs into sliders using mini buns, adding fresh lettuce and tomato slices for a fun twist. For a crowd, arrange them on a large platter with bowls of dipping sauces such as ranch, ketchup, or mustard. You can even skewer them on cocktail sticks with pickles or olives, transforming them into easy finger foods perfect for parties or game nights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, they keep really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before storing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

These bombs freeze beautifully, which makes them a perfect make-ahead snack. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and defrost quickly when needed.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the refrigerated or thawed bombs in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain their crispy outside while melting the cheese inside back to that fabulous gooey state. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses for the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan provide the classic cheesy texture and flavor, you can swap mozzarella for cheddar or pepper jack for a little kick. Just make sure the cheese melts well to keep that gooey surprise inside.

Is it possible to make these vegetarian?

Yes, you can try substituting ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and legumes. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the savory depth, and keep the cheese for gooey goodness—or use a plant-based cheese for a fully vegan version.

How can I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?

The trick is to seal the beef mixture tightly around the cheese and pinch the seams firmly. Handling the meat gently but firmly helps. Using chilled cheese and meat mixture makes sealing easier and reduces cheese leakage.

Can I make the mixture ahead before shaping the bombs?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it covered. This actually helps the flavors meld better. Just shape and bake them when you’re ready to serve for fresh, warm bombs.

Do I need to use breadcrumbs in the recipe?

Breadcrumbs act as a binder and help keep the texture tender and cohesive. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. Skipping them entirely might cause the bombs to fall apart or be too dense.

Final Thoughts

Once you make these Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, you’ll understand why they’re a total crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy beef, garlic, fresh herbs, and that irresistible molten cheese center all wrapped in a Parmesan crust is truly unforgettable. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party snack, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch—your taste buds will thank you!

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 10 reviews

Author: Simon
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 cheeseburger bombs 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are a deliciously savory appetizer featuring juicy ground beef mixed with aromatic garlic, fresh parsley, and spices, stuffed with melted mozzarella cheese, then coated in grated parmesan and baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats offer a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and robust flavors, ideal for parties, snacks, or a fun twist on classic cheeseburgers.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Form Beef Patties: Take a small portion of the beef mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and flatten it gently in your hands to create a small patty.
Add Cheese Filling: Place a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened beef patty. Carefully fold the beef around the cheese, sealing it completely, and roll into a tightly packed ball.
Coat with Parmesan: Roll each beef ball in grated parmesan cheese until it is fully coated on all sides, which adds a flavorful crust once baked.
Arrange for Baking: Place the prepared cheeseburger bombs on the lined or greased baking sheet, spacing them evenly so they cook uniformly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the outside is golden brown and the beef is fully cooked through.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy these cheesy, garlicky bites as a delicious appetizer or snack.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted if needed.
For a crispier coating, you can double dip the beef balls in egg wash before rolling in parmesan.
Feel free to add chopped onions or your favorite herbs to customize the flavor.
Make sure to seal the beef tightly around the cheese to prevent leaking during baking.
These can be prepared ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American