Garlic Knots Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for an appetizer that vanishes within minutes of hitting the table, Garlic Knots are about to become your new best friend. These soft, fluffy knots are brushed with garlicky butter, showered with fresh parsley, and crowned with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Each bite delivers pure comfort—warm, melt-in-your-mouth dough and that unmistakable garlic aroma everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting game night, serving up pizza, or just need a reason to treat yourself, these Garlic Knots are as irresistible as they are easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a few humble ingredients, when combined just right, can create something so universally adored. Each ingredient here is key—not only for flavor but also for that signature pull-apart texture and golden sheen that defines truly great Garlic Knots.
- Pizza dough (1 pound): Using store-bought or homemade pizza dough ensures your knots are chewy and fluffy at the same time.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): This adds rich flavor and delivers that glossy finish we crave in every bite.
- Fresh garlic (3 cloves, minced): Nothing compares to the punch and fragrance of real garlic infused into warm bread.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Parsley brings a burst of color and fresh, herbaceous notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): A final sprinkle gives the knots savory depth and a slightly nutty bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to enhance all the flavors and balance the richness of the butter and cheese.
How to Make Garlic Knots
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready to transform your dough into golden treasures. For guaranteed easy cleanup and knot removal, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This little trick means you’ll spend more time snacking and less time scrubbing when you’re done.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your countertop to prevent sticking, then gently roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle about half an inch thick. This ensures the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, chewy center. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into strips roughly one inch wide. Take each strip, tie it into a simple knot (it’s easier than you think), and place the knots evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and salt. Give everything a swift mix—you’re creating the flavorful magic that brings Garlic Knots to life! The aroma alone is enough to make everyone wander into the kitchen to ask, “What’s cooking?”
Step 4: Brush and Bake
Brush half of the garlic butter mixture all over the tops and sides of your knots, being generous—this is where the flavor begins building. Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful golden color and puffed, tender knots that practically invite you to pull them apart.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once your knots are hot from the oven, immediately brush them with the remaining garlic butter. Don’t hold back! While they’re still warm, sprinkle on the chopped parsley for freshness and a shower of grated Parmesan for that irresistible, slightly salty finish. Trust me, this last flourish makes all the difference.
How to Serve Garlic Knots
Garnishes
A little extra love goes a long way! Fresh parsley sprinkled right before serving keeps the knots looking vibrant, and an extra dusting of Parmesan adds that wow factor. For guests who like a hint of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes just before serving—the buttery garlic flavor with a subtle kick is out of this world.
Side Dishes
Garlic Knots are made to be dipped and shared. Pair them with a tangy marinara sauce for the ultimate appetizer, or serve alongside a hearty bowl of soup or a crisp Caesar salad. They also make an irresistible companion to pasta night, soaking up any leftover sauce so not a drop goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your presentation! Pile the Garlic Knots high on a rustic wooden board with ramekins of warm marinara and herbed olive oil for dipping. Or, for a party twist, thread mini knots onto skewers and serve as “knot kabobs” for easy grabbing. However you present them, these knots always steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have leftovers (no guarantees!), store cooled Garlic Knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll keep their flavor and soft texture, making for the perfect quick snack or lunchbox addition.
Freezing
Garlic Knots freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container—they’ll keep for up to two months. When you need a last-minute appetizer, just grab and go!
Reheating
To bring your Garlic Knots back to their warm, pillowy best, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about five minutes. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but the oven helps restore that irresistible golden exterior. Don’t forget another brush of melted butter for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough adds a personal touch and can be flavored with extra herbs or spices if you’re feeling adventurous. Just be sure it’s well-kneaded and stretchy for the softest Garlic Knots.
What’s the secret to getting knots to stay soft?
The real secret is not to overbake them. Keep a close eye in those last few minutes, and don’t skip the final brush of butter—it seals in moisture and keeps your knots tender.
Can I add cheese inside the knots?
Definitely! For an gooey surprise, tuck a small cube of mozzarella inside each strip before tying. When you break one open, you’ll be treated to molten cheese and garlicky bread in every bite.
Are Garlic Knots vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegetarian as written. If you’re serving vegan guests, a dairy-free butter and cheese substitute will work just as deliciously.
How can I make the Garlic Knots spicier?
A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes mixed into the garlic butter or added on top after baking will give your knots a flavor boost and just the right level of heat.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Knots are one of those special recipes that turn an ordinary night into something memorable. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh bread, garlic, and Parmesan baking in your kitchen—except maybe the sight of friends and family gathered around, reaching for “just one more.” I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make these knots part of your rotation!
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Garlic Knots Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 knots 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Knots are a delicious twist on traditional garlic bread. They are buttery, garlicky, and perfect for dipping in marinara sauce. Easy to make with store-bought or homemade pizza dough, they are a great appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into strips, tie each strip into a knot, and place on the baking sheet.
- Make garlic butter: Mix melted butter, minced garlic, and salt in a bowl. Brush half of the mixture over the knots.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Brush with the remaining garlic butter, sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Notes
- These knots are delicious dipped in marinara sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 knot
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
