Cheesy Garlic Mozzarella Buns (The Best Way to Use Leftover Hot Dog Buns!)

We’ve all been there—you buy a pack of hot dog buns for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, and suddenly you’re left with half the pack staring at you from the counter. Before you know it, they’re on the brink of going stale. Instead of letting them go to waste, why not transform them into something irresistible? If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a half-used pack of buns on the verge of going stale, this recipe is about to become your new best friend.

This Cheesy Garlic Mozzarella Bread is the perfect way to repurpose leftover hot dog buns. Soft brioche buns are split, stuffed with gooey mozzarella, and slathered in a garlicky butter topping before being baked until golden brown. The result? A dish that tastes just like your favorite restaurant garlic breadsticks, but with a fun, homemade twist.

It’s quick, budget-friendly, and family-approved. Plus, it’s the kind of side that disappears fast, whether you serve it with pasta, soup, or a fresh salad. Trust me, after one bite, no one will ever guess these started as “just leftover hot dog buns.”

What makes this recipe shine is the buttery garlic topping that seeps into the soft brioche buns, paired with gooey mozzarella stuffed inside. The buns crisp up on the edges while staying pillowy in the center, giving you that perfect bite every single time. You’ll never look at leftover buns the same way again.

So next time you see those buns about to expire, try my recipe, you’re only 20 minutes away from turning them into something unforgettable!

INGREDIENTS:

• 10 brioche hot dog buns

• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

• 4 tablespoons of butter, softened

• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (or oregano)

• 5 large garlic cloves, minced (more if you love garlic!)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

STEPS:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. Arrange the buns in a 9x13-inch baking dish and cut each one in half.

3. Stuff each slit with shredded mozzarella cheese.

4. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.

5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the tops of the buns.

6. Bake for 14 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.

7. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, garlicky creation! Bon appétit!