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Garlic Bread Meatball Bombs Recipe

4.8 from 117 reviews

Garlic Bread Meatball Bombs are a delightful twist on classic garlic bread and meatballs, combining the rich flavors of garlic butter, Italian herbs, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese wrapped inside soft bakery rolls. These savory bombs are perfect as a party appetizer or a satisfying snack, baked to golden perfection with melted cheese inside.

Ingredients

Scale

Garlic Butter Mixture

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons grated garlic (from 2 to 3 garlic cloves)
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 12 bakery-style dinner rolls
  • 1½ cups marinara sauce
  • 12 Italian-style meatballs, thawed if frozen
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 ounces whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded (Galbani brand recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with grated garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
  2. Prepare the Rolls: Cut the tops off of each bakery-style dinner roll and carefully hollow out the inside to make space for filling, leaving enough bread on the sides to hold together when stuffed.
  3. Assemble the Bombs: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce inside each hollowed roll. Place one Italian-style meatball inside each roll. Add shredded mozzarella cheese generously around and on top of the meatball, then sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese. Pour a little additional marinara sauce over the cheese, if desired, for extra moisture and flavor.
  4. Finish with Garlic Butter: Brush the garlic butter mixture all over the outside and inside edges of each stuffed roll to ensure a nice, flavorful crust when baked.
  5. Bake the Meatball Bombs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled bombs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown, the cheese is melted, and the meatballs are heated through.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bombs cool for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • For best results, use bakery-style soft dinner rolls to easily hollow out and fill.
  • Ensure the meatballs are fully cooked before assembling or use pre-cooked frozen meatballs.
  • Adjust garlic quantity to taste for a milder or stronger flavor.
  • Optional: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture as the bread remains softer after cooling.

Keywords: garlic bread meatball bombs, meatball appetizers, garlic bread stuffed rolls, cheesy meatball bombs, party snacks