Irresistible Garlic Butter Cheese Bites: A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion
Indulge in the deliciousness of Garlic Butter Cheese Bites, an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to elevate any gathering. These cheesy, buttery bites feature soft biscuit dough filled with melted mozzarella and brushed with a savory garlic butter mixture for a burst of flavor. Whether served as a snack or a side dish, these bites are bound to be a hit. You can even get creative by experimenting with different cheeses or adding toppings like pepperoni or crispy bacon for added flair. Best of all, they’re quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the plate!
Ingredients
- Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: 1 (16oz) container – quick and easy base for the cheese bites.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 4 ounces (shredded or cut into chunks) – for a rich, gooey filling.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (melted) – forms the base of the garlic butter topping.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon – infuses the butter with a bold garlic flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon – adds a delightful blend of herbs.
- Salt: A pinch – enhances the overall flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Dough: Remove the refrigerated biscuit dough from the package and place it on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the mozzarella cheese (either in chunks or shredded) on top of each biscuit.
- Seal the Cheese: Wrap the dough tightly around the cheese, ensuring the edges are fully sealed to keep the cheese from escaping during baking.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each sealed dough ball, seam-side down, on the prepared baking sheet to maintain its shape as it bakes.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese bites are golden brown and the cheese inside is perfectly melted. Keep a close watch to avoid overbrowning.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: While the cheese bites bake, melt the butter in the microwave and stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: Once the bites are out of the oven, generously brush each with the garlic butter mixture, adding an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful glossy finish.
- Serve Hot: Serve these garlic butter cheese bites immediately while they’re hot and fresh, with melted cheese oozing from every bite. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
Garlic Butter Cheese Bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with their golden crust and gooey, melted cheese. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. To add a touch of elegance, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color and extra flavor. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Expert Tips
- Cheese Variety: Try cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend for a unique flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Add Fillings: For a fun twist, include pepperoni or crispy bacon along with the cheese.
Chef’s Advice
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis recommends using high-quality mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
- Chef Ina Garten advises brushing the bites with an extra layer of garlic butter just before serving for maximum flavor and shine.
