Description
Cheesy Garlic Bread Muffins
Ingredients:
1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade dough)
2 tbsp butter (melted)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic.
3. Flatten each biscuit dough piece slightly and place it into the muffin tin.
4. Brush each with garlic butter, then top with mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, and black pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect muffins every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and thoroughly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. Open one 16-ounce can of refrigerated biscuit dough (the flaky layers kind works great). Separate the biscuits. On a clean surface, use your fingers to gently flatten and stretch each biscuit into a 4-5 inch round. Carefully press each round into a muffin cup, ensuring the dough comes up the sides to form a cup shape.
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Finely mince 2 cloves of fresh garlic and stir them into the warm butter. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the inside of each dough cup with the garlic butter mixture. Next, fill each cup: start with a pinch of mozzarella, then a pinch of Parmesan, a light sprinkle of oregano and black pepper, and then repeat the cheese layers once more, slightly mounding the cheese. Bake on the center rack for 12-15 minutes. They are done when the dough is deep golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Immediately remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let cool in the pan for just 2-3 minutes before carefully lifting out with a fork or spoon.
Serving Suggestions
These savory muffins are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a standout appetizer with a side of warm marinara or creamy ranch dip for dipping. They are the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of Italian-style soup, like minestrone or tomato basil, or paired with a fresh garden salad for a light meal. For a heartier dinner, they make an excellent, crowd-pleasing side dish to pasta dishes, grilled chicken, or steak.
How-to Summary
Grease a muffin tin. Flatten biscuit dough into rounds and press into the cups. Brush with a mix of melted butter and minced garlic. Layer with mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, and pepper. Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until golden. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade dough? Absolutely. A simple pizza or savory biscuit dough works perfectly. Portion it into 12 equal balls, flatten, and proceed with the recipe.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I add other ingredients? Yes! Try adding a teaspoon of finely chopped pepperoni, a sprinkle of cooked crumbled bacon, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.
Why did my muffins stick to the pan? This is usually due to insufficient greasing. Ensure you grease every cup thoroughly, including the top rim. Letting them cool for a few minutes before removal also helps.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? You can, but block cheese you shred yourself melts more smoothly. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the texture slightly grainy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling the muffin cups, as the cheese can bubble over and burn. Do not skip the step of brushing the dough with garlic butter before adding cheese; this infuses flavor into the dough itself. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for proper rise and texture. Finally, do not let the muffins cool completely in the tin, as the residual heat will steam the bottoms and make them soggy.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Garlic Bread Muffins are the ultimate easy-to-make, flavor-packed treat. Combining the convenience of refrigerated dough with the irresistible duo of garlic and cheese, they are guaranteed to be a hit at any table. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and achieve perfectly golden, cheesy, and aromatic muffins every single time. They transform simple ingredients into a spectacular side dish or snack that everyone will love.