If you adore warm, buttery bread with a punch of garlicky goodness, then this Garlic Knots Recipe is just the treat you need to add to your collection. These fluffy, golden knots are crisp on the outside and irresistibly soft inside, perfectly drenched in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with hints of fresh parsley and optional Parmesan for that extra layer of savory magic. Whether you’re looking for a cozy appetizer or a delightful snack, these garlic knots will steal your heart and fill your kitchen with captivating aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet powerful ingredients is key to making the best garlic knots. Each element plays its part—from the chewy texture of the pizza dough to the rich flavor of melted butter and fresh garlic that brings everything to life.
- 1 pound pizza dough: Your base for soft and pillowy knots, you can use store-bought or homemade dough depending on your preference.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Essential for that luscious garlic butter coating that seals in moisture and flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds pungent, aromatic depth you simply can’t replicate with powders.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, bright pop of color and a mild herbal note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances the garlic’s savory punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle kick for those who like a touch of heat.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkled on top, it’s the golden finishing touch for a nutty, slightly salty dimension.
How to Make Garlic Knots Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to a hot 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to get that perfect golden crust. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Shape Your Knots
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the pizza dough into a 10×14 inch rectangle. This simple step sets the stage for even knots that bake uniformly. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 12 strips. Then, channel your inner baker and tie each strip into a loose knot, placing them evenly spaced on the baking sheet for the best rise.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the knots for about 12 to 15 minutes until they puff up and turn a gorgeous golden brown. This is where the magic begins as the dough transforms into soft, airy knots with a satisfying crunch on the outside.
Step 4: Brush on Garlic Butter
While your knots are baking, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. As soon as the knots come out of the oven, generously brush each one with this fragrant mixture to ensure every bite bursts with buttery garlic flavor.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
If you love a cheesy finish, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top right after brushing the garlic butter so it gently melts onto the warm knots. Now they’re ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Garlic Knots Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley sprinkled on top after baking adds a vibrant green contrast that makes these garlic knots look as good as they taste. For an extra indulgent twist, a light dusting of more Parmesan right before serving is always welcome.
Side Dishes
Garlic knots pair beautifully with a wide array of dishes: from classic tomato marinara for dipping to accompanying a hearty pasta plate or a crisp garden salad. They also make an amazing finger food at parties or a cozy addition alongside your favorite soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your garlic knots in a bread basket lined with a colorful napkin for a warm, inviting look. Or arrange them around a dipping bowl filled with garlic-infused olive oil, herbed butter, or creamy ranch for guests to enjoy a fun and interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Garlic knots are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps retain their softness without drying out.
Freezing
To keep garlic knots on standby, freeze them before baking by tying your dough strips into knots and placing them on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time, and brush with garlic butter right after baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftover garlic knots in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their warmth and crispiness without making them soggy. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Absolutely! While fresh garlic lends the brightest flavor, garlic powder is a convenient substitute—use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder mixed into the melted butter for a similar garlicky zing.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap out the butter for vegan margarine or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative to make these garlic knots completely vegan-friendly.
Is store-bought pizza dough okay to use?
Definitely. Store-bought dough works perfectly well and is a huge time saver, especially when you want these garlic knots on the table quickly.
How spicy will the garlic knots be with red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth that complements the garlic without overpowering it. You can omit or adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the garlic butter ahead and refrigerate it for up to a day. Warm it slightly before brushing onto the hot knots to ensure it spreads easily and releases the best aroma.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Garlic Knots Recipe inspires you to bake up a batch of these irresistible bites that bring comfort and joy to any meal. They’re incredibly simple, yet packed with flavor and texture that will quickly make them a household favorite. Don’t hesitate to get your hands doughy and enjoy the rewarding smell of fresh-baked garlic knots filling your home!
Print
Garlic Knots Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 garlic knots
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy homemade Garlic Knots made from pizza dough, brushed with a flavorful garlic butter mixture and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these golden, soft knots are best served fresh and warm.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
For the Garlic Butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 10×14 inches in size to ensure even strips and knots.
- Cut and Shape: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 12 even strips. Tie each strip into a loose knot, making sure not to tighten too much to keep them fluffy when baked.
- Bake the Knots: Arrange the knots spaced slightly apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: While the knots are baking, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Brush Knots & Garnish: Once the knots come out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired for added flavor.
- Serve: Serve the garlic knots warm as a tasty appetizer or side, optionally with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Garlic knots are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to regain warmth and softness.
- If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can be substituted for the garlic in the butter mixture.
- Serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce to enhance the flavor.
