Garlic Parmesan Bread Bites

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Brunch

There’s just something magical about a warm, buttery bread bite that’s been tossed in garlicky goodness and finished with a shower of Parmesan. Am I right? Whether you’re hosting a casual game night, planning a cozy movie marathon, or just want a quick and satisfying snack, these Garlic Parmesan Bread Bites hit the spot every single time.

They’re golden, buttery, cheesy, and honestly – addictive. I’ve made these for so many occasions (and yes, sometimes just because I was craving them at 9 pm), and they never last more than a few minutes on the table. What I love most is how incredibly easy they are to whip up with just a few pantry staples and either refrigerated or fresh pizza dough. And let’s not even talk about how amazing your kitchen will smell while these are baking.

This recipe is the kind that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. It’s simple, crowd-pleasing, and totally customizable – basically, everything a good snack should be. Ready to make a batch? Let’s dive into the first steps!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • 1 can refrigerated pizza dough or 1 pound fresh pizza dough

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt to taste

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

You can easily double the recipe if you’re serving a bigger crowd—or just if you want extras to snack on later. (Pro tip: you’re going to want extras.)

STEP 1: PREP YOUR OVEN AND DOUGH

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your bread bites don’t stick, and lightly flour your work surface to prevent any doughy messes.

Roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle that’s about ½ inch thick. Don’t worry about making it perfect – this recipe is forgiving, and rustic is part of the charm.

STEP 2: CUT INTO BITE-SIZED PIECES

Once your dough is rolled out, take a sharp knife or a pizza cutter and slice it into 1-inch squares. These little bite-sized pieces are what make them perfect for dipping and snacking. Lay them out on your baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each one so they can puff up and brown evenly.

STEP 3: BAKE TO GOLDEN PERFECTION

Pop your baking sheet into the oven and bake the bread bites for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and turning golden on top. Keep an eye on them near the end of the baking time—you want that perfect light golden color, not brown and crispy.

While those are baking and filling your kitchen with the smell of fresh dough, it’s the perfect time to get started on that garlic butter (arguably the best part).

Butter, Cheese & Flavor Magic

Now that your kitchen smells like a bakery (with just a hint of pizza shop vibes), your bread bites should be beautifully puffed and lightly golden from the oven. And trust me, while they’re great plain, it’s what comes next that really turns them into something special.

This next part is where the magic happens—when those warm, pillowy bites get drenched in garlic butter and tossed with Parmesan. It’s quick, easy, and makes the whole recipe taste like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant.

Let’s pick up right where we left off and finish off this delicious recipe.

STEP 4: MELT THE GARLIC BUTTER

While your bread bites are baking (or as soon as they go into the oven), grab a small saucepan and melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, add in 3 cloves of minced garlic and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

Let the mixture cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant. You don’t want it to brown—just enough heat to bring out all those garlicky, herby flavors.

Tip: Want to boost the flavor even more? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a tiny dash of garlic powder can add a little extra kick.

STEP 5: TOSS THE WARM BREAD BITES IN GARLIC BUTTER

As soon as your bread bites come out of the oven, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. While they’re still hot, pour the garlic butter over the top and gently toss until every piece is coated. You want them glistening and glossy with that buttery garlic goodness.

Don’t skip this step—it’s key to making sure the flavor sticks to every single bite.

STEP 6: SPRINKLE WITH PARMESAN

Right after tossing them in the butter, sprinkle on ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The warmth from the bread bites helps the cheese melt slightly and cling to the surface, giving you that perfect salty, cheesy coating.

Tip: Grate your Parmesan fresh if you can. It melts better and has a richer flavor than the pre-shredded kind.

Give everything one last toss to make sure the cheese is evenly distributed. If you’re feeling a little fancy, you can finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor—but it’s totally optional.

Serve & Enjoy!

These bread bites are best served warm, straight out of the bowl (or off the pan if you’re impatient like me). Pair them with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping, and you’ve got yourself the kind of snack that disappears faster than you think.

Tips & Variations

Want to take these up a notch? Here are a few fun ways to change things up:

  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to your butter mixture for a touch of heat.

  • Cheese lover’s version: Mix a little shredded mozzarella into the Parmesan for an extra gooey bite.

  • Try a different seasoning: Swap the Italian seasoning for ranch seasoning, Cajun spice, or even a pizza seasoning blend.

  • Go bite-size garlic knots: Instead of cutting the dough into squares, roll each piece into a mini knot for a slightly different look and texture.

Whether you’re sticking to the classic or putting your own twist on it, these garlic Parmesan bread bites are a total win. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them a few times a week—they’re just that easy and that good.

FAQs & Final Thoughts

By now, you’ve rolled, baked, tossed, and probably snuck a few bites along the way (no judgment here). These Garlic Parmesan Bread Bites really do check all the boxes—simple, flavorful, and downright addictive. Before we wrap things up, I want to answer a few of the most common questions that come up when making these savory little bites. Whether it’s your first time trying the recipe or you’re looking for ways to store leftovers (if there are any), I’ve got you covered.

FAQ: Your Garlic Parmesan Bread Bite Questions Answered

1. Can I make these bread bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the dough and even bake the bites a few hours in advance. However, for the best flavor and texture, I recommend tossing them in the garlic butter and Parmesan right before serving. If needed, you can reheat the plain bites in the oven for a few minutes, then finish with butter and cheese.

2. Can I use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Absolutely! While fresh garlic offers the best flavor, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be used in a pinch. If you’re using pre-minced garlic from a jar, just be careful not to overcook it—it can burn quickly in butter.

3. What dipping sauces go best with these?
Marinara is a classic, but don’t stop there! Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a creamy cheese dip pairs wonderfully. I’ve even dipped them in warm Alfredo sauce, and let me tell you—it’s incredible.

4. Can I freeze the bread bites?
You can freeze the baked, uncoated bread bites for up to a month. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven, then toss them in fresh garlic butter and Parmesan. Freezing after adding butter and cheese can cause them to get soggy.

5. Is it better to use fresh dough or canned dough?
Both work great, and it really comes down to convenience vs. texture. Fresh pizza dough tends to be softer and chewier, while canned dough is quicker and slightly crispier. I use whichever one I have on hand, and the results are always delicious.

6. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free pizza dough—either homemade or store-bought. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy switch for those with dietary restrictions.

7. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture. Microwaving works too, but the bread may lose some of its crispiness.

Final Thoughts: Make Them Once, Crave Them Forever

I don’t say this lightly—these garlic Parmesan bread bites are one of those recipes you’ll come back to over and over again. They’re quick, versatile, and totally satisfying, whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a party snack, or a side with pasta or soup.

The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple pantry items and about 20 minutes, you can turn out a tray of warm, buttery, cheesy goodness that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds).

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Garlic Parmesan Bread Bites

Garlic parmesan bread bites are the perfect savory snack or appetizer. These soft, golden bites are made from pillowy dough, tossed in melted garlic butter, and finished with a generous coating of grated Parmesan. Ideal for dipping in marinara or enjoying on their own, they’re quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

  • Author: Mark's Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1 can refrigerated pizza dough or 1 pound fresh pizza dough

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt to taste

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1 Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle, about ½ inch thick.

2 Cut the dough into small bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 inch in size. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

3 Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bread bites are puffed and lightly golden on top.

4 While they bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

5 Remove the bread bites from the oven and immediately toss them in the garlic butter mixture until well coated. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese while still warm and toss again to coat evenly.

6 Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Use fresh dough for a softer texture, or refrigerated pizza dough for a quicker option. These bread bites are best served warm, straight out of the oven. For added flavor, try mixing the Parmesan with a bit of garlic powder or red pepper flakes. Serve with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack or side.

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