Cheesy Garlic Monkey Bread is a buttery, pull-apart delight packed with gooey mozzarella, zesty garlic, and savory herbs. It’s the kind of recipe I turn to when I want a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun, cheesy side dish that’s irresistibly comforting and simple to prepare. Each bite is stuffed with melted cheese, coated in a garlic butter blend, and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Cooking spray or extra oil for greasing pan
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a Bundt pan generously with cooking spray or oil.
Then, I cut each biscuit round into quarters. I flatten each piece slightly, add a pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, then pinch it closed and roll it into a ball.
In a bowl, I mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
I dip each cheese-filled dough ball into the butter mixture, making sure it’s fully coated, and then layer them evenly in the prepared Bundt pan.
Once all the dough balls are in, I pour any leftover butter mixture on top.
I bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and everything is cooked through.
After baking, I let it rest for 5 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.
To finish, I garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve it warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 310 kcal
Variations
I sometimes swap the mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor kick.
For a meatier version, I like to add small pieces of pepperoni or cooked bacon inside each dough ball.
I’ve also tried using fresh rosemary or Italian seasoning in the butter mixture for a twist.
When I want a slightly lighter option, I use reduced-fat cheese and biscuits.
To make it spicy, I add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, I wrap the bread tightly or place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I like to use the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the outside crisp and the inside gooey. For a quicker option, I microwave individual portions for about 30–40 seconds, though it won’t be as crispy.
FAQs
How do I know when the monkey bread is fully baked?
I check if the top is a deep golden brown and gently pull apart a few pieces to make sure the inside dough is cooked through. If it’s still doughy, I bake it for a few more minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I often assemble it ahead and store it in the fridge (uncooked) for a few hours. When I’m ready, I just pop it in the oven. I don’t recommend prepping it the day before, though, as the dough can get soggy.
What’s the best cheese to use for stuffing?
I usually go with mozzarella because it melts beautifully, but I’ve also tried smoked gouda, provolone, or even cream cheese for something richer.
Can I use homemade biscuit dough?
Definitely. I’ve made it with homemade dough, and it turns out even more flavorful, though it takes more time. The store-bought dough is just super convenient when I’m in a hurry.
What can I serve this with?
I like serving this monkey bread as a party appetizer or alongside soups, pasta dishes, or a big salad. It’s especially great dipped in marinara or ranch sauce.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Monkey Bread is one of those recipes I keep coming back to — it’s easy, fun to make, and always a hit. Whether I’m making it for a party, a family dinner, or just a snack, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its cheesy, garlicky pull-apart goodness.
📖 Recipe:
Cheesy Garlic Monkey Bread
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Garlic Monkey Bread is a pull-apart bread loaded with gooey mozzarella, garlic butter, and herbs. Perfect as a party appetizer or a cheesy side dish, it's easy to make with biscuit dough and always a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated biscuit dough
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Cooking spray or extra oil for greasing pan
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan with cooking spray or oil.
- Cut each biscuit round into quarters. Flatten each piece slightly, add a pinch of mozzarella cheese in the center, pinch it closed, and roll into a ball.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each cheese-filled dough ball into the butter mixture to coat, then layer them evenly in the Bundt pan.
- Pour any remaining butter mixture over the dough balls in the pan.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Swap mozzarella with cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda for a flavor variation.
Add cooked bacon or pepperoni inside the dough balls for a meatier version.
Use fresh rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different herb flavor.
Use reduced-fat cheese and biscuits for a lighter version.
To make it spicy, increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to the butter mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅛ of recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
