1.Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
Game day snacks should be bold, cheesy, and addictive—and these Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs deliver all that and more. Imagine juicy ground beef seasoned to perfection, melted cheddar oozing in every bite, and all of it wrapped in golden, flaky biscuit dough. Top that off with a rich, buttery garlic-parmesan glaze, and you’ve got the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that vanishes the moment you serve it.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, and Sunday football gatherings, these mini cheeseburger bombs are easy to make and even easier to eat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for something fun for family dinner, this recipe is the MVP of snack-time playbooks.
Let’s break down what makes this version the ultimate bomb recipe—pun intended.
2. What Makes This the Ultimate Bomb Recipe?
These aren’t just your average cheeseburger sliders—they’re mini flavor explosions wrapped in buttery, golden dough. Here’s what sets this recipe apart:
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Flaky Biscuit Crust: We use refrigerated biscuit dough for ease and texture. The outside turns perfectly golden and crisp while staying soft inside.
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Juicy Cheeseburger Filling: Ground beef sautéed with onions and cheddar cheese brings classic burger flavor in every bite.
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Garlic Parmesan Butter Glaze: Brushed on after baking, this mixture of butter, garlic, parsley, and parmesan elevates the whole dish.
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No Mess, All Fun: They’re compact, portable, and non-messy—ideal for finger food at game night or casual get-togethers.
These cheeseburger bombs check every box: crispy, cheesy, buttery, and wildly snackable. Get ready for them to disappear the moment they hit the table.
3. Ingredients Breakdown
3.1 For the Cheeseburger Bombs
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Ground beef (1 lb) – Opt for 80/20 for flavor and moisture.
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Small onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
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Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) – Sharp cheddar gives the best melt and flavor contrast.
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Refrigerated biscuit dough (1 package, 8 biscuits) – The perfect shortcut to achieve that golden, flaky exterior.
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Olive oil (1 tbsp) – For brushing before baking to add a light crisp.
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Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the meat.
3.2 For the Garlic Parmesan Butter
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Unsalted butter (4 tbsp), melted – Use unsalted to control saltiness.
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Minced garlic (3 cloves) – Fresh garlic is key to deep, aromatic flavor.
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Chopped fresh parsley (2 tbsp) – Adds a fresh herbal note and visual appeal.
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Grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup) – For salty, nutty richness on top.
Optional Add-Ons:
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A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for spice
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Dash of Worcestershire or Dijon mustard in the beef mix
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
4.1 Prepping the Filling
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, then toss in the finely diced onion and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft—about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess fat, season with salt and pepper, and let it cool for a few minutes.
Once slightly cooled, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed. The warmth will start to melt the cheese, binding everything together into a gooey, savory mixture.
4.2 Assembling the Bombs
Open the biscuit dough and separate the 8 biscuits. Flatten each one gently with your fingers or a rolling pin until it’s about 4–5 inches wide. Scoop a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture into the center.
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching tightly to seal. Roll it gently in your hands to form a ball and place it seam-side down on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
4.3 Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once all the bombs are assembled, brush them lightly with olive oil to encourage browning. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the tops are golden brown and firm to the touch.
4.4 Garlic Parmesan Butter
While the bombs bake, mix your melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and parmesan in a small bowl. The mixture should be thick and aromatic.
Once the bombs are out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic parmesan butter while still hot. This allows the butter to soak into the crust and enhances the flavor immensely.
5. Final Touches & Serving Suggestions
Once glazed with garlic parmesan butter, these bombs are ready to serve! For best results, serve them warm, so the cheese inside remains melted and gooey. You can garnish with extra parsley, shredded parmesan, or even a touch of chili flakes for a pop of color and heat.
Serve with dipping sauces for added fun. Here are a few fan favorites:
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Ranch dressing
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Garlic aioli
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Ketchup or spicy ketchup
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Honey mustard
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BBQ sauce
These cheeseburger bombs also make a perfect addition to a larger appetizer spread. Pair them with nachos, buffalo wings, or veggie platters for a game day feast that pleases everyone.
6. Recipe Variations and Substitutions
These Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are more than just a crowd-pleasing snack—they’re a customizable canvas for every kind of taste bud. Whether you’re swapping ingredients due to dietary needs or simply want to change up the flavor, here are some creative ways to make this recipe your own.
Cheese Variations:
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Mozzarella cheese offers a stretchy texture that mimics classic pizza-style bombs.
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Pepper Jack adds just the right amount of heat for spice lovers.
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Swiss or Gouda create a smooth, creamy flavor that’s ideal for a more gourmet take.
Cheese is more than just flavor—it affects the melt, texture, and richness of your bombs. According to Wikipedia’s article on cheddar cheese, sharp cheddar provides a balance of fat and flavor that enhances savory dishes like this one.
Meat Alternatives:
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Ground turkey and ground chicken offer leaner options that retain moisture when combined with onions.
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Italian sausage introduces a bold, herby bite.
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Plant-based ground crumbles make this recipe vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing texture.
Looking for a lighter version? Swap the beef for a mix of turkey and shredded zucchini—the zucchini adds moisture and a touch of nutrition.
Dough Swaps:
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Use crescent roll dough for a flakier texture and a slightly sweet finish. Check out this popular Pinterest post for crescent roll inspiration in bite-sized snacks.
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For an ultra-buttery result, try puff pastry—just ensure the edges are sealed well to avoid leakage.
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Want to go all in? Make your own homemade biscuit dough using tips from this Wikipedia guide to biscuits.
Flavorful Add-Ins:
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Jalapeños or red pepper flakes bring a spicy edge.
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A spoonful of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce mixed into the beef gives it that signature umami hit.
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Add crumbled bacon for a smoky finish that pairs perfectly with the garlic parmesan glaze.
These simple tweaks let you turn one base recipe into dozens of unique flavor bombs. For more ideas like these, explore Pinterest boards on game day snacks that highlight trendy appetizer combinations using everyday ingredients.
Each of these swaps enhances the versatility of your cheeseburger bombs, making them ideal for everything from casual weeknight bites to crowd-pleasing party platters.
7. Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips
One of the greatest advantages of Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs is how easily they can be prepped ahead and stored for later. Whether you’re planning for a party or meal prepping for the week, these make-ahead tips ensure you always have flavor-packed bites ready to go.
Make-Ahead Preparation:
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Assemble the bombs as directed but don’t bake them right away.
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Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
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Before baking, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes so they bake evenly.
This flexibility makes them a go-to for busy weeknights, party prep, or even game day tailgating. For additional ideas on prepping appetizers ahead of time, explore Pinterest boards for party appetizers that show how to build a snack spread without last-minute stress.
Storing Leftovers:
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Store cooked bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the flaky biscuit texture.
Freezing Instructions:
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Freeze unbaked bombs by placing them on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
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Bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 20–22 minutes, brushing with garlic butter immediately after.
This technique helps preserve the structure and flavor. According to Wikipedia’s article on ground beef, freezing cooked or raw meat mixtures helps retain nutritional value and flavor when done properly.
These freezer-friendly bombs also make excellent emergency meals or last-minute snacks—just pair them with a quick garlic aioli or dip and serve. For added inspiration, check out Pinterest recipes for cheesy appetizer bites that combine convenience with crave-worthy flavors.
With these storage and make-ahead strategies, your cheeseburger bombs can go from freezer to table in under 30 minutes—without compromising on texture or taste.
8. Why These Are Perfect for Game Day
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are more than just tasty—they’re engineered for game day success. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or a casual Sunday get-together, these bite-sized flavor bombs check every box for the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack.
Why they work so well:
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Mess-free eating: No forks, knives, or napkin piles required. These bombs are self-contained, handheld, and easy to grab, making them perfect for passing around the room.
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Easy to scale: Hosting a large crowd? Simply double or triple the recipe. You can assemble them ahead of time and bake in batches. They’re just as delicious warm from the oven as they are at room temperature.
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Kid- and adult-approved: The classic combo of beef, cheese, and biscuit appeals to all ages. Add garlic butter and parmesan on top, and you’ve got an instant fan favorite.
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Pairs with any snack spread: These bombs blend seamlessly into an appetizer table. Try them alongside nachos, sliders, or even garlic knots. For ideas, explore this Pinterest collection of game day snack ideas.
The savory richness from the parmesan cheese and garlic butter makes these bombs ideal when paired with drinks and other umami-packed snacks. According to Wikipedia’s article on Parmesan, the cheese’s aged, nutty profile enhances the depth of savory foods, which explains why these bombs are so addictive.
When you’re looking for something easy, cheesy, and guaranteed to disappear, these cheeseburger bombs deliver big.
9. Garlic Parmesan Flavor Pairings
The bold, savory taste of garlic parmesan lends itself to a wide variety of pairings that can turn your cheeseburger bombs into a standout part of any meal or snack spread. Whether you’re serving them on game day or as a weeknight treat, these combinations will elevate the flavor profile and balance the richness.
Best Appetizer Pairings:
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Buffalo wings – The tangy, spicy heat of wings contrasts beautifully with the creamy, garlicky notes of the bombs.
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Loaded potato skins – The crispy texture and cheesy filling of potato skins match the indulgent quality of cheeseburger bombs.
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Fresh veggie platter – Raw carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a crisp, refreshing balance to the buttery richness of the bombs.
You can find endless inspiration for balanced spreads by exploring Pinterest boards focused on garlic butter recipes that show creative uses of these savory, aromatic ingredients in party foods.
Top Sauce and Dip Pairings:
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Garlic aioli – Reinforces the garlic flavors while adding a creamy element.
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Spicy ketchup – A twist on the classic that complements the burger filling.
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Honey mustard – Sweet and tangy contrast to the savory cheese and beef.
Drink Pairings:
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Lager or pilsner beers – Light enough to refresh the palate, but still flavorful.
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Sparkling water with lemon – Cuts through the richness and refreshes between bites.
For more info on how flavor balances work in savory dishes, check out Wikipedia’s page on garlic, which explains how garlic interacts with fats and proteins to enhance umami. Using garlic and parmesan together not only adds flavor—it builds complexity and keeps your guests coming back for more.
10. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the most delicious Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs can go wrong if a few common mistakes aren’t avoided. To ensure every bite is golden, flaky, and bursting with flavor, here are the top issues people run into—and exactly how to fix them.
1. Overstuffing the Dough
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It’s tempting to load up on the meat and cheese, but too much filling causes the bombs to burst during baking.
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Solution: Use a measured tablespoon of filling. Flatten the dough enough to fully enclose the mixture without tearing.
2. Undercooking or Overbaking
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Biscuit dough that’s still raw inside or too dark on the outside is a common complaint.
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Bake at 375°F for 15–18 minutes and watch for a golden top and firm feel. For larger bombs, go closer to the full 18 minutes.
3. Cheese Leakage
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Melted cheese spilling out isn’t just messy—it reduces the cheesy goodness inside.
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Pinch the seams tightly and place the bombs seam-side down on the baking sheet. Wikipedia’s guide to biscuit dough explains how proper sealing affects the structure of baked dough.
4. Soggy Bottoms
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This happens when bombs sit on a baking sheet with too much moisture.
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Always drain the cooked beef mixture well. Use parchment paper and avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Skipping the Garlic Parmesan Butter
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This final step adds flavor and texture. Without it, the bombs can taste bland.
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Brush them while hot so the butter soaks into the crust. Want more inspiration? Pinterest recipes for cheesy appetizer bites show how finishing touches turn simple recipes into standout bites.
By avoiding these pitfalls, your cheeseburger bombs will turn out flaky, cheesy, and irresistible—every single time.
11. Nutrition Facts (Estimated)
While Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs aren’t exactly diet food, you can still enjoy them in moderation—and even tweak the recipe to make them a bit lighter. Here’s a general idea of what you’re consuming per serving.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Cheeseburger Bomb):
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Calories: ~280–320
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Total Fat: ~18g
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Saturated Fat: ~8g
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Protein: ~13g
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Carbohydrates: ~20g
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Sugar: ~2g
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Sodium: ~480mg
These values depend on the specific ingredients used—especially the type of biscuit dough and cheese. For a lighter version, consider using:
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Low-fat cheese
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Lean ground turkey or chicken
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Reduced-fat biscuit dough
Using fresh herbs and controlling the portion size of the garlic parmesan butter can also lower the sodium and fat content. According to Wikipedia’s article on ground beef, using leaner meat options significantly reduces overall calorie content without sacrificing flavor when seasoned well.
Want to go even healthier? Consider serving them with a side salad or fresh veggies to balance the richness. These small changes keep the flavor high and the guilt low.
12. FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use crescent roll dough instead of biscuit dough?
Yes, crescent roll dough works beautifully and creates a flakier, slightly sweeter result. Just be sure to press the seams together well so the filling doesn’t leak. For dough inspiration, explore Pinterest’s crescent roll recipes that showcase other creative savory snacks.
Q2: How do I keep the cheeseburger bombs from falling apart?
Seal the edges tightly and place each bomb seam-side down before baking. Also, avoid overfilling—use about 1 tablespoon of filling per bomb. For structural success, check out biscuit handling tips on Wikipedia’s biscuit dough guide.
Q3: Can I make these cheeseburger bombs in the air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep space between each bomb for even air circulation. Brush with garlic butter right after cooking for best flavor.
Q4: What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Mozzarella, provolone, Gouda, and Pepper Jack are excellent substitutes. If you’re looking for the most authentic flavor, stick with sharp cheddar as detailed in Wikipedia’s article on cheddar cheese.
Q5: Can these be made vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and add some sautéed mushrooms or black beans. You’ll still get that hearty texture with plenty of flavor. Vegetarian ideas can also be found in Pinterest’s appetizer boards.
Q6: How long do cheeseburger bombs last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the dough rubbery. For freezer tips and storing, check out Pinterest freezer snack ideas.
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs The Ultimate Bombe Recipe for Game Day Snacks
These Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are the ultimate game day or party snack—flaky on the outside, cheesy and savory on the inside, and topped with buttery garlic parmesan goodness. They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and disappear faster than you can bake them.
Whether you serve them hot out of the oven or prep them ahead for freezing, these bombs deliver a perfect blend of comfort food and crowd-pleaser. With juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and golden biscuit dough all brushed in rich garlic butter, each bite is an explosion of flavor.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or quick family dinners, these bombs are also endlessly customizable. Swap in your favorite cheese, meat, or dough and make them your own.
- Author: Clara
Ingredients
For the bombs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the garlic parmesan butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat and let cool slightly.
- Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture until well combined.
- Flatten each biscuit dough round and place a spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
- Place the sealed bombs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare the garlic parmesan butter by mixing melted butter, garlic, parsley, and parmesan in a small bowl.
- When bombs are done baking, brush them generously with the garlic parmesan butter before serving.
Notes
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Be sure to drain the beef well after cooking to prevent soggy dough.
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Do not skip the garlic parmesan butter—it adds depth, richness, and that irresistible finishing touch.
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If making ahead, store unbaked bombs in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months.
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Serve with ranch, garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard for dipping.
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Double the batch for larger gatherings—they disappear fast!