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Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs are a delightful twist on classic comfort food, offering an explosion of savory flavor in every bite. This recipe is your secret weapon for a quick, impressive appetizer or a crowd-pleasing snack that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Each bite delivers a satisfyingly rich and savory experience, bursting with cheesy goodness and aromatic garlic. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into an irresistible treat.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bombs
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend recommended for flavor
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated, plus more for topping
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs plus more for coating
  • 1/4 cup milk any kind
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for cooking
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or a blend Optional for stuffing
  • Chopped fresh parsley Optional garnish
  • Dipping sauce for serving

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Shallow Dishes
  • Large skillet
  • Serving platter

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cheeseburger bombs.
    1 pound ground beef, 1/2 cup yellow onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  2. Add the lightly beaten egg and 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs to the bowl. Continue to mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture.
    1 large egg, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  3. Take about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture and roll it into a compact ball. Repeat this process until all the beef mixture is used. You should have approximately 12-16 balls, depending on your desired size.
  4. If you're adding a cheesy center, flatten one beef ball slightly in the palm of your hand. Place about 1 teaspoon of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese blend in the center. Carefully fold the beef mixture around the cheese, sealing it completely to create a smooth ball. Ensure there are no gaps where the cheese can escape during cooking. Repeat with remaining balls.
    Shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, or a blend
  5. In one shallow dish, combine the remaining panko breadcrumbs with an additional 2-3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. In another shallow dish, pour the milk.
    1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup milk
  6. Dip each cheeseburger bomb first into the milk, ensuring it's fully coated, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the milk-coated bomb in the panko and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even and generous coating.
  7. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Carefully place the coated cheeseburger bombs into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
    2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  8. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and the cheeseburger bombs are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
  9. Once cooked, remove the Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with a little extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
    1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, Chopped fresh parsley, Dipping sauce

Notes

To store leftover Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, the best method to maintain their crispiness is in the oven or an air fryer.
Freezing: Place cooled cheeseburger bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.