Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

Are you ready to take your cheeseburger game to the next level? If you love cheeseburgers, bacon, garlic, and melted Parmesan cheese, then you’re going to be obsessed with these Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs! This recipe takes all the best flavors from your favorite bacon cheeseburger and wraps them up in a delicious, cheesy, garlicky, and perfectly golden dough bomb. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these bite-sized treats are ideal for parties, snacks, or even a fun dinner option. Read on to discover how to make these mouth-watering bombs right at home!

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What Are Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs?

Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs are everything you love about cheeseburgers, but in a more exciting, snackable form. Imagine seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a soft biscuit or pizza dough that's brushed with a buttery garlic-Parmesan mixture. Once baked, they turn into golden, crispy “bombs” that explode with flavor when you bite into them. They’re perfect for a game day snack, a family-friendly appetizer, or even as a creative twist on a traditional cheeseburger meal.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

To get started, gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. These ingredients can be easily found in most grocery stores and you might already have some of them in your pantry.

For the Cheeseburger Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 is ideal for flavor and moisture)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice, like American or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup or mustard (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Dough:

• 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:

• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking for ways to tweak this recipe to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences, here are a few suggestions:

1. Meat Variations: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten things up. You could also try sausage for a spicier kick or even a meatless substitute like plant-based ground beef.
2. Cheese Options: Cheddar cheese works great, but feel free to experiment with other types like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. A blend of cheeses can add complexity to the flavor.
3. Dough Choices: While biscuit dough is easy and convenient, pizza dough also works wonderfully for a slightly crispier texture. You could even try crescent roll dough for a flaky, buttery finish.
4. Spice It Up: Add a few jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture if you like things spicy. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes into the garlic butter topping for an extra kick.
5. Healthier Versions: For a healthier twist, use whole wheat dough and swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon. Reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat option to cut back on calories.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your very own Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs. You'll have a batch ready to serve in no time!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced onions and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and any additional ketchup or mustard, if using. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Cook and Crumble the Bacon

While the beef is cooking, prepare your bacon. Cook the bacon in a separate pan or in the oven until crispy. Once done, crumble it into small pieces and add it to the cooked beef mixture.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

With the skillet still on low heat, stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the beef and bacon mixture. Allow the cheese to melt and fully incorporate, creating a creamy, cheesy filling. Once combined, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 5: Prepare the Dough

Open your can of refrigerated biscuit or pizza dough. Separate the dough into individual portions (usually 8 pieces per can). If using pizza dough, cut the dough into even pieces, about 3 inches in diameter.

Step 6: Fill and Shape the Bombs

Take each piece of dough and flatten it slightly in the palm of your hand. Spoon about a tablespoon of the beef and cheese mixture into the center of the dough. Carefully fold the edges up and over the filling, pinching the seams to seal them. Shape the dough into a round ball, making sure the filling is completely enclosed.

Step 7: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also stir in some Italian seasoning and chopped parsley for extra flavor.

Step 8: Brush the Bombs

Place the filled dough balls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of each dough ball generously with the garlic-Parmesan butter mixture.

Step 9: Bake the Bombs

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crispy on the outside. The cheese inside should be melted and gooey.

Step 10: Add Final Touches

Once out of the oven, give the bombs another light brushing of the garlic-Parmesan butter if desired. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and parsley on top for added flavor and presentation.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs is an easy process, but attention to detail will help you perfect the dish. The key is balancing the crispy exterior with the gooey, flavorful interior. Here's a quick guide to ensure success:

• Make sure your ground beef is well-seasoned, but not too greasy. Drain any excess fat so the dough doesn't get soggy.
• Use room-temperature dough for easier handling and better sealing.
• Be generous with your garlic-Parmesan butter for that rich, savory crust.
• Bake until golden brown—don’t rush this part! The visual cues will help you know when they're ready.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the Dough: If you add too much filling, the dough may burst open during baking. Use just enough to fill the center and ensure a tight seal.
• Skipping the Garlic Butter: The garlic-Parmesan butter mixture is what gives these bombs their signature flavor and crispy, golden exterior. Don’t skip it!
• Undercooking: Make sure to cook the bombs until they are fully golden brown. This ensures that the dough is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted.
• Using Cold Dough: Cold dough is harder to work with and may tear when you're trying to fill it. Let it come to room temperature for easier handling.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To truly impress your guests or family, consider these tips for serving and presenting your Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs:

1. Serve Hot: These bombs are best served fresh from the oven while the cheese is still melted and gooey.
2. Offer Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, ranch dressing, or even barbecue sauce for added flavor.
3. Pair with Sides: For a full meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad, French fries, or roasted vegetables.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

These savory bombs make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or meal. Here are some ways to serve them:

• As an Appetizer: Serve them as a finger food at parties or gatherings with a variety of dipping sauces.
• As a Main Dish: Pair with a side salad or some fries for a fun twist on a traditional burger meal.
• At a BBQ or Picnic: These are great for outdoor events since they’re portable and don’t require utensils.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

To elevate your presentation, try the following ideas:

• Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese right before serving.
• Serve on a Wooden Board: For a rustic look, serve the bombs on a wooden cutting board with small bowls of dipping sauces arranged around them.
• Create a Tower: Stack the bombs in a pyramid for a visually appealing centerpiece at a party.

Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the filling and assemble the bombs ahead of time, then refrigerate until you're ready to bake them.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F to maintain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it may make the dough soggy.
• Freezing: These bombs freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before storing in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for a quick snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these without bacon?

A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of bacon or want a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or substitute with a plant-based alternative.

Q: Can I use frozen dough?

A: Yes, you can use frozen dough. Just be sure to thaw it completely before working with it to avoid any tearing.

Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?

A: Yes! To make them in an air fryer, cook them at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How can I prevent the bombs from bursting open?

A: Be careful not to overfill the dough, and make sure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent bursting.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs are a mouth-watering fusion of cheeseburgers and garlic-Parmesan bread, making them the perfect bite-sized treat. With crispy bacon, savory beef, gooey cheese, and a garlicky crust, they’re bound to be a hit at any event. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or a fun twist on dinner, these delicious bombs are sure to disappear fast. Now that you’ve got the recipe, go ahead and give it a try—you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!

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