Cheesy Chili Bombs are a quick, delicious, and kid-friendly dinner idea. These savory treats feature seasoned ground beef, beans, and cheese encased in flaky crescent rolls. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a picnic on the go.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 15oz Cans of Crushed or Fire Roasted Tomatoes
• 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
• 1 15oz Can of Red Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 Medium Onion, Diced
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, Diced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, Diced
• 3 tsp Cumin
• 3 tbsp Chili Powder
• 2 tsp Black Pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 cans of 8 ct Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
• 1 Cup Shredded Mild Cheddar
• Small can tomato paste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and spices, stirring well.
4. Lower heat and add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and kidney beans, simmering for 15 minutes.
5. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, separate the crescent rolls, roll them into balls, then flatten them.
6. Once the chili mixture simmers, drain any excess liquid and spoon 1-2 tbsp of chili into the center of each roll.
7. Fold the dough over the chili and pinch the dough together.
8. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown.

Nutrients

• Calories: 300 per serving
• Carbs: 25g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

Why Cheesy Chili Bombs are Perfect for Busy Days

In today’s fast-paced world, we are constantly looking for ways to prepare tasty meals without spending too much time in the kitchen. Cheesy Chili Bombs check all the boxes: they are quick, easy, and require minimal ingredients while offering a big punch of flavor. The combination of a hearty chili filling and a gooey cheese center wrapped in soft, buttery crescent rolls makes them irresistible to both kids and adults.

Their simplicity and convenience make them an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner. In just a little over 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s filling enough to please even the hungriest family members. These Cheesy Chili Bombs can even be adapted for larger crowds or gatherings, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this cheesy, chili-filled delight.

The Benefits of Cooking with Crescent Rolls

Crescent rolls are often seen as a quick fix for meal prep, and for good reason. The dough is pre-made and ready to use, cutting down on prep time significantly. Not only that, but crescent rolls also provide a flaky texture that complements the richness of the chili and cheese filling. The soft dough provides a perfect balance to the savory filling, making each bite melt in your mouth.

Crescent rolls are also incredibly versatile, allowing you to use them in various recipes, from sweet to savory. They can be stuffed with meats, vegetables, or even fruits for a dessert twist. This versatility allows you to experiment with different fillings and flavors, giving you endless options to make the dish your own. Whether you’re using them to wrap a classic hot dog or fill them with a cheesy chili filling, crescent rolls make everything a little easier and a lot tastier.

Customizing Your Cheesy Chili Bombs

One of the best things about Cheesy Chili Bombs is that they are highly customizable. While the traditional recipe uses ground beef, kidney beans, and cheese, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein or mushrooms. You can also add additional vegetables like zucchini, corn, or jalapeños to spice things up.

Cheese lovers can experiment with different varieties of cheese, such as sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, to add extra flavor and meltiness. If you’re hosting a party or event, you can offer several variations of the Cheesy Chili Bombs to appeal to different tastes, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cheesy Chili Bombs are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chili bombs. You can also serve them with guacamole or salsa for a touch of creaminess or tanginess that will enhance the overall experience.

If you’re hosting a casual dinner or party, consider serving these bombs alongside other finger foods like sliders, chips, and dips. They can also be paired with hearty soups like tomato or vegetable soup for a comforting meal that’s perfect for colder days. For drinks, a cold iced tea, lemonade, or even a light beer would complement the flavors of the dish nicely.

Nutritional Benefits of Cheesy Chili Bombs

While Cheesy Chili Bombs are undoubtedly delicious, they are also packed with nutrients that can provide a balanced meal. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, which are essential for muscle growth and healthy red blood cells. Kidney beans, on the other hand, are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Adding fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions boosts the nutrient content, providing a good amount of vitamins and antioxidants.

However, like many savory treats, Cheesy Chili Bombs should be enjoyed in moderation due to their calorie and fat content. If you’re looking to make a lighter version, you can substitute the crescent rolls with a low-fat dough, or use leaner cuts of meat. Additionally, you can reduce the cheese content and increase the vegetable-to-meat ratio to make the dish healthier while still maintaining its flavorful essence.

Cheesy Chili Bombs for Special Occasions

While Cheesy Chili Bombs are ideal for everyday meals, they also make a great addition to special events like birthday parties, tailgates, or holiday gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and eat, even in casual settings. If you’re hosting a game day party or a movie night, these cheesy treats will definitely be a crowd-pleaser.

Their fun, finger-food format makes them a great conversation starter, and they can be easily transported if you’re attending a potluck or family gathering. You can even prepare the chili mixture ahead of time and assemble the bombs right before baking, which is especially useful if you’re short on time or need to make a large batch.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chili Bombs are a fantastic addition to any recipe collection, offering a perfect balance of flavor, convenience, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing food for a large group, these cheesy, chili-filled delights are sure to satisfy everyone. With their easy prep, customizable ingredients, and delicious results, they provide an excellent option for anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying dish.