Cheesy Garlic Dough Balls

Cheesy Garlic Dough Balls are a delicious, soft, and fluffy appetizer packed with rich garlic butter and gooey melted cheese. These bite-sized treats are perfect for sharing, making them an excellent addition to parties, gatherings, or even as a side dish for pasta and soups.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy, and filled with melty cheese in every bite.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a side dish.
• Customizable with different cheeses and herbs.
• Pairs well with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or ranch dressing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Warm water
• Sugar
• Salt
• Olive oil
• Mozzarella cheese (or preferred melting cheese)
• Garlic cloves (minced)
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Dough Balls: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small equal-sized pieces.
5. Flatten each piece and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Pinch the edges to seal and form a smooth ball.
6. Arrange the dough balls in a greased baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Prepare the Garlic Butter: Melt butter in a pan and stir in minced garlic and chopped parsley.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the dough balls with garlic butter and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Finish & Serve: While hot, brush with more garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 dough balls
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Dough Balls: Mix dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the dough for extra flavor.
• Stuffing Options: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan butter for a plant-based version.
• Extra Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking for an even cheesier bite.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover dough balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
• For longer storage, freeze the dough balls in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, you can use pre-made pizza or bread dough to save time.

What’s the best cheese for stuffing?

Mozzarella is ideal for a gooey texture, but cheddar, gouda, or provolone work well too.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them before baking, then bake when ready.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the dough is sealed tightly around the cheese and avoid overstuffing.

Can I make these without yeast?

Yes, use a quick dough made with baking powder, but the texture will be slightly different.

What dipping sauces pair well with this?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli work well.

Can I freeze unbaked dough balls?

Yes, freeze them after shaping and thaw before baking.

How can I make them crispier?

Brush with extra butter before and after baking, and bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.

What’s the best way to reheat them?

The oven works best to maintain their crispness, but a microwave is quicker.

Can I add bacon or other fillings?

Absolutely! Crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions can add extra flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Dough Balls are an irresistible appetizer or side dish that combines soft, fluffy bread with gooey melted cheese and flavorful garlic butter. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them as a snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try different cheese and herb combinations to make them your own, and enjoy these warm, cheesy bites straight from the oven!