There’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, am I right? It’s like a warm hug that reminds me of Sunday family gatherings, where the food seemed to draw everyone together, laughter included! One of my favorite comfort foods is definitely monkey bread. But when you put a cheesy twist on it and fill it with garlic goodness? Oh boy, it takes it to another level!
This Easy Mini Cheese-Filled Garlic Monkey Bread is my go-to recipe when I am craving something comforting, finger-licking, and utterly indulgent. It’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a cozy evening at home. Believe me, once you pull that first gooey piece apart and see the melted mozzarella stretching, you won’t be able to stop at just one!
What’s in Easy Mini Cheese-Filled Garlic Monkey Bread?
Let’s break down these ingredients a little because they all play a special role in making this dish a hit.
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: The star of the show! I love using a 16 oz can for the fluffy, tender base that holds all the cheesy goodness. You can find this at any grocery store—just don’t forget the biscuits!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese is perfect for giving that melty, gooey center that everyone loves. If you can get fresh mozzarella, even better!
Unsalted Butter: The Butter is key here—it adds richness to the garlic mixture. Use unsalted so you can control the seasoning. Just make sure to melt it nicely!
Garlic: Four cloves, minced to let that pungent flavor shine! It’s garlic monkey bread, after all; we’re not skimping on flavor here!
Dried Parsley: Adds a touch of color and freshness amidst all the rich flavors. Plus, it complements the garlic so nicely!
Garlic Powder: Who doesn’t love a double dose of garlic? The garlic powder takes the flavor up a notch.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing everything out. Just a pinch goes a long way in bringing out all those flavors.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This is for topping, and it creates that irresistible cheesy crust on the top. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step!
Is Easy Mini Cheese-Filled Garlic Monkey Bread Good for You?
Ah, the million-dollar question! Well, while this mini garlic monkey bread might not win any health awards, it definitely has some perks!
First off, garlic itself is known for its health benefits. It’s packed with antioxidants that can help support your immune system. Plus, it’s a great flavor enhancer without adding too many calories. However, we have to be mindful of the buttery, cheesy goodness as well—delicious, but maybe not something we indulge in every day.
If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, consider using whole-wheat biscuit dough or reducing the amount of cheese. Balance is key, my friend!
Ingredients
– 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Servings: Makes about 8 servings (if you can manage to share!)
How to Make Easy Mini Cheese-Filled Garlic Monkey Bread?
Alright, let’s get cookin’! Here’s how to whip up this gooey, cheesy wonder:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan or a bundt pan (it’ll look pretty that way!).
2. Open the can of biscuit dough like it’s a surprise gift! Separate each biscuit and cut them into quarters.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s all incorporated and smells divine!
4. Now, take a piece of biscuit dough, flatten it out in your palm, and add about 1 tablespoon of mozzarella cheese right in the center. Fold the dough around the cheese to form a little ball. Repeat until all the dough is filled!
5. Dip each cheese-filled dough ball into that garlicky butter mixture, making sure they get evenly coated. (Drooling yet?)
6. Place those coated balls evenly in your greased pan. Don’t worry if they cuddle a bit; they’re going to rise beautifully in the oven!
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and if you have any leftover garlic butter, pour it over the dough balls for good measure.
8. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until you see that gorgeous golden brown crust forming.
9. Once you’re done, let the monkey bread cool for a few minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.
10. Pull apart those cheesy garlic knots and serve warm! Go ahead and promise you’ll share; it’s only polite!
A Little Extra Love for Your Monkey Bread
I love to serve this monkey bread with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it’s like your own mini cheese-filled garlic breadsticks! You can also mix up the cheese by adding a bit of cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick, or throw in some herbs like oregano or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. The fun really is in the variations!
So, there you have it! This Easy Mini Cheese-Filled Garlic Monkey Bread is not just a dish; it’s an experience! I can’t wait for you to try it out. Trust me, once you do, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe (or even better, for you to make it again!). Happy cooking!
