Golden Garlic Cheese Bombs

These Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls are an irresistible combination of fluffy dough, gooey melted cheese, and a rich garlic butter glaze. Each bite is packed with buttery, herby goodness, making them the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for an extra flavor punch.

Not only are these rolls incredibly delicious, but they’re also fun to shape for different occasions—whether it’s a football for game day or a Christmas tree for holiday parties! With minimal effort and simple ingredients, these pull-apart bites are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.

Full Recipe:

  • 16-19 oz pizza dough
  • 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks OR 32 Land O Lakes Creamy Italian Blend Cheese Cubes
  • ½ tbsp milk OR 1 egg
  • Flaky salt (optional)

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted & cooled slightly
  • ¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 small cloves garlic, minced (or 1 large clove)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped basil
  • Salt & pepper to taste

To Serve:

  • 1 slice of cheese of choice (mozzarella, provolone, cheddar)
  • Marinara sauce

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the cheese sticks into 1-inch pieces (each should yield about 4 pieces, 32 in total). If using Land O Lakes Cheese Cubes, skip this step.
  3. Divide the pizza dough into 32 equal pieces. If you want precision, weigh each piece using a digital scale.
  4. Flatten each piece of dough into a small rectangle with your fingers. Place a cheese piece in the center and wrap the dough around it, pinching the seams closed and rolling it into a ball.
  5. Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in your desired shape (football, tree, or classic round arrangement). Ensure they are touching but not too cramped.
  6. Brush the tops of the rolls with milk or a whisked egg. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
  7. Bake for 18 minutes, then switch the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Let the rolls cool slightly.
  8. In a medium bowl, mix melted butter, parmesan, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the warm rolls.
  9. Slice the cheese into thin rectangles and arrange on top if creating a themed shape (e.g., football laces).
  10. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 54 kcal per roll | Servings: 32 rolls

Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls: The Ultimate Party Appetizer

When it comes to appetizers that steal the show, Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls are in a league of their own. These golden, buttery, pull-apart rolls are loaded with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese and brushed with a rich garlic herb butter, making them an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a holiday party, or just craving a comforting snack, this recipe is the perfect addition to your menu.

What makes these rolls so irresistible is their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crisp, golden crust gives way to a pillowy-soft interior, while the melted cheese oozes with every bite. The aromatic garlic butter enhances the flavor profile, adding a savory depth that keeps you coming back for more. Paired with a warm marinara sauce for dipping, these rolls are nothing short of addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls are not just another appetizer; they bring a unique twist to the classic garlic bread we all love. Here’s why you should add them to your recipe collection:

  • Quick & Easy – Using store-bought pizza dough saves time and effort, making this recipe perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
  • Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – With just a handful of simple ingredients, you get a restaurant-quality dish without the hassle.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a game night, a potluck, or a family dinner, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
  • Fun to Customize – You can experiment with different fillings, dough types, and seasonings to make them your own.
  • A Kid-Friendly Favorite – The cheesy, pull-apart nature of these rolls makes them a hit with kids and adults alike.

The Magic Behind the Cheese Pull

One of the most satisfying aspects of these rolls is the melty, stretchy cheese that makes them so fun to eat. To achieve the perfect cheese pull, using the right cheese is key. Mozzarella string cheese sticks work best because they maintain their shape while baking and provide that signature stretch. However, if you prefer a different texture, you can substitute with cheese cubes or shredded cheese. Some great alternatives include:

  • Provolone – For a mild and creamy taste.
  • Cheddar – Adds a sharp, slightly tangy kick.
  • Gouda – Melts beautifully and has a rich, smoky flavor.
  • Pepper Jack – A great option for those who love a bit of spice.

For an extra indulgent experience, you can combine different cheeses to create a deeper, more complex flavor. Mixing mozzarella with parmesan or Gruyère adds a delightful balance of creaminess and sharpness.

The Importance of Garlic Herb Butter

A major highlight of these Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls is the garlic herb butter that coats each bite. This buttery blend not only enhances the rolls’ flavor but also gives them a beautiful golden color.

The garlic butter consists of melted unsalted butter, freshly minced garlic, parmesan cheese, and a mix of fresh herbs like parsley and basil. The result is a fragrant, savory glaze that soaks into the rolls, making them even more irresistible.

If you want to intensify the garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic beforehand. Roasted garlic has a mellow, slightly sweet taste that adds a whole new dimension to the butter.

Shaping the Rolls for Different Occasions

One of the fun aspects of this recipe is that the rolls can be shaped into various creative arrangements depending on the event.

  • Football Shape – Perfect for Super Bowl parties or game nights. Arrange the rolls in an oval shape and use thin strips of cheese to create “laces” on top.
  • Christmas Tree – For the holiday season, arrange the rolls into a tree shape, brush them with butter, and sprinkle red pepper flakes for a festive look.
  • Classic Round – A simple circular arrangement works great for any occasion. Serve it as a shareable appetizer for dinner parties.

This versatility allows you to use the same delicious recipe for multiple celebrations without it ever feeling repetitive.

The Best Dipping Sauces for Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls

While these rolls are incredibly delicious on their own, serving them with a dipping sauce takes them to another level. Here are some fantastic options to try:

  • Marinara Sauce – A classic pairing that enhances the garlic and cheese flavors with a tangy tomato contrast.
  • Garlic Aioli – A creamy, garlicky sauce that adds an extra layer of richness.
  • Ranch Dressing – A favorite for those who love a cool, herby dip with their cheesy bread.
  • Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce – If you enjoy a bit of heat, this tomato-based sauce with chili flakes is a great choice.
  • Honey Butter – For a sweet and savory contrast, a drizzle of honey butter can be surprisingly delicious.

Each of these dips complements the rolls differently, so you can mix and match depending on your preference.

Customization Ideas: Making It Your Own

While the base recipe is already delicious, there are many ways to customize these Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls to suit your taste:

  • Add Protein – Stuff the rolls with bits of pepperoni, crumbled bacon, or shredded chicken for a heartier appetizer.
  • Make Them Spicy – Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter.
  • Use Different Doughs – Swap out pizza dough for crescent roll dough, biscuit dough, or even puff pastry for a unique texture.
  • Try Different Herbs – Experiment with oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a new flavor profile.
  • Make Them Sweet – If you love a good sweet-and-savory contrast, try brushing the baked rolls with a honey butter glaze instead of garlic butter.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because these rolls disappear fast!), you’ll want to store and reheat them properly to maintain their deliciousness.

  • Refrigeration – Store the cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – To bring back their crispy exterior, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
  • Freezing – You can freeze the unbaked, stuffed dough balls for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw slightly and bake as directed.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls are more than just an appetizer—they’re a flavorful, comforting, and interactive dish that brings people together. With their golden crust, gooey cheese center, and rich garlic herb butter, they offer a perfect combination of taste and texture.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility and ease. Whether you’re shaping them into a football for game day, a Christmas tree for the holidays, or simply serving them as a round pull-apart bread, these rolls adapt beautifully to any occasion.

Paired with a warm marinara sauce or your favorite dip, these rolls will quickly become a go-to favorite for parties, gatherings, and family dinners. So next time you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer, give these Cheesy Stuffed Garlic Bread Rolls a try—you won’t regret it!

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