If you love gooey melted cheese wrapped in golden, buttery bread, these Cheese Bellies will be your new obsession! Soft, fluffy dough encases a molten cheese center, baked until perfectly golden. These cheesy delights are perfect for dipping, making them ideal for parties, snacks, or satisfying those cheesy cravings.
Why You’ll Love Cheese Bellies
- Ooey-gooey cheese pull in every bite.
- Soft, buttery bread with a crisp exterior.
- Customizable fillings – Add herbs, garlic, or even bacon.
- Perfect for dipping in marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
For the Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella (or a mix of cheddar, Gouda, or pepper jack)
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or basil (optional)
For Topping (Optional):
- Melted butter + minced garlic (for brushing)
- Fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add warm milk, melted butter, and egg, then knead until a smooth dough forms (about 5-7 minutes by hand or mixer).
- Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, mix shredded cheeses and seasonings until well combined.
Shape and Stuff the Rolls
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a small disc, add 1-2 tablespoons of cheese filling, then pinch the edges tightly to seal.
- Place the stuffed dough balls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second Rise and Bake
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
- Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle fresh parsley, if using.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheese Bellies
- Seal the dough tightly to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
- Use cold cheese for the filling—it melts better and prevents bursting.
- Add diced jalapeños, cooked bacon, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Make ahead – Freeze unbaked rolls and bake straight from frozen, adding about 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with marinara sauce for a classic dipping experience.
- Serve warm at parties for the ultimate cheesy appetizer.
- Enjoy alongside soup or salad for a cozy meal.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made dough? Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works well as a shortcut.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out? Make sure to seal the dough tightly and use cold cheese to minimize melting too quickly.
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can refrigerate assembled rolls for up to 24 hours before baking or freeze them for up to 2 months.
What other cheeses can I use? Mix and match cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina for unique flavors.
These Cheese Bellies are warm, melty, and impossible to resist—guaranteed to be a hit with everyone! Make them tonight and watch them vanish!