Garlic bread meatball bombs are savory stuffed rolls baked until golden brown, brushed with garlicky butter, loaded with marinara, melty cheese, and juicy meatballs. I love how this dish brings together comfort food classics into a single, bite-sized package that’s perfect for dinner, parties, or game day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how simple yet impressive these garlic bread meatball bombs turn out. The garlic butter soaks into the rolls, giving them a rich, fragrant flavor. I find that the combination of mozzarella and parmesan creates that perfect gooey, cheesy pull when I bite into them. I also appreciate that this recipe comes together quickly, making it an easy weeknight dinner or appetizer that always satisfies.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Garlic Butter
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

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

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 baking pan with olive oil cooking spray.

2. To make the garlic butter, I whisk the melted butter, grated garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.

3. Place the dinner rolls into the prepared baking pan. Cut a 1½-inch well in the center of each roll with a small paring knife, making sure not to cut too deep.

4. Brush the garlic butter into the wells and over the tops of the rolls.

5. Spoon 1 to 1½ tablespoons of marinara sauce into each well.

6. Add a meatball to each sauce-filled roll and top with the remaining marinara.

7. Sprinkle parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella over all the rolls and meatballs.

8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 garlic bread meatball bombs. Prep time takes about 10 minutes, and baking takes 25 minutes, so I usually have them ready in about 35 minutes total.

Variations

I sometimes swap the mozzarella for provolone or add a bit of ricotta inside for extra creaminess. If I want a spicy twist, I use arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara. For a fun change, I also like using Hawaiian sweet rolls for a touch of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes so the bread stays crisp. I avoid microwaving because it makes the rolls soggy. If I want to freeze them, I bake first, let them cool, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make these with homemade meatballs?

Yes, I like making my own meatballs sometimes. I just keep them around 2 inches so they fit perfectly into the rolls.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

I do, but I always thaw them first so they heat evenly during baking.

What type of rolls work best?

I prefer bakery-style dinner rolls because they’re soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble them a few hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake right before serving.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely. I like mozzarella for its melt, but provolone or cheddar also taste great.

How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?

I don’t cut too deep into the rolls, and I add just enough sauce so it doesn’t soak through the bread.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, I air fry them at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Can I double this recipe?

I often double it for parties, but I use two pans to avoid overcrowding.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Yes, I replace the meatballs with veggie meatballs or even roasted mushrooms.

What can I serve with garlic bread meatball bombs?

I like serving them with a side salad, extra marinara for dipping, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

These garlic bread meatball bombs are one of my favorite ways to enjoy cheesy garlic bread and saucy meatballs together in a single bite. I love how they’re easy to prepare, versatile with different variations, and always a hit at the table. Whether I serve them as dinner or a party appetizer, they disappear fast every time.