If you’re looking for a warm, irresistible treat that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, this Garlic Knots Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft, chewy knots of pizza dough brushed with a heavenly garlic butter sauce make these little bites perfectly addictive. They’re easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but special enough to steal the show at any gathering. Once you taste these golden delights, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these garlic knots is surprisingly simple, and each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the soft dough to the fragrant garlic and fresh parsley, these essentials come together to form something truly magical.
- 1 lb pizza dough: This is the base, providing that soft, chewy texture that makes garlic knots so comforting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter adds richness and serves as the flavor carrier for the garlic and herbs.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a punch of savory aroma that defines the whole dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley adds a bright, fresh note that balances the richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just enough to elevate all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- Optional 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra touch of umami and a savory finish.
How to Make Garlic Knots Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease; this ensures the knots won’t stick and will come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Shape the Knots
Take your pizza dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 6 to 8 inches long. Then gently tie each into a loose knot. This shape is not just charming but also creates delightful crispy edges balanced by a soft center. Place the knots evenly spaced on your baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Knots
Pop the knots into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn golden brown and the dough is cooked through. The smell at this point will start to hint at the incredible garlic butter flavor coming your way.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the knots bake, melt your butter in a small saucepan or the microwave. Stir in minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, mix it in now—it adds a lovely savory depth. This butter mixture is where the magic truly happens.
Step 5: Coat the Knots
As soon as the knots come out of the oven, brush each one generously with the garlic butter sauce. Doing this while they’re still warm allows the flavor to soak in beautifully and gives the knots that irresistible glossy finish.
How to Serve Garlic Knots Recipe
Garnishes
To take your garlic knots to the next level, sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese creates an elegant, cheesy crust that adds great texture. For a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes work wonders sprinkled on just before serving.
Side Dishes
Garlic knots feel right at home alongside a tangy marinara sauce for dipping—perfect for sharing. They also pair beautifully with classic Italian dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or creamy Alfredo. A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables complement the richness and add balance to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your garlic knots in a wreath shape on a large platter for a festive touch at gatherings. Serving them in a rustic bread basket lined with a checkered napkin adds cozy charm. For parties, pair them with an array of dips such as pesto, ranch, or a zesty sun-dried tomato spread to delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover garlic knots, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and delicious while preventing them from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked garlic knots for up to a month. Arrange them on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake them straight from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To revive the delightful warmth and softness, reheat garlic knots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep their crispy edges intact. A quick brush of garlic butter after reheating will bring back their fresh-baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough for this Garlic Knots Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully and saves you time without sacrificing taste. Just make sure it’s fully thawed if frozen before shaping.
How do I make the knots taste more garlicky?
If you love garlic, increase the amount of minced garlic in the butter or add a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra kick. Roasted garlic can also offer a sweeter, milder garlic flavor.
Can I make these knots gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free pizza dough, you can enjoy garlic knots even with gluten restrictions. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
What dipping sauces go well with garlic knots?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but garlic knots also pair well with Alfredo sauce, ranch, or even a tangy pesto. Experiment to find your favorite!
How do I keep garlic knots fresh for a party?
Bake them shortly before guests arrive and keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F/90°C) covered with foil. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking without drying out.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Garlic Knots Recipe is a must-have in your cooking repertoire. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these garlic knots bring comfort and joy in every bite. Whip them up for dinner, a party, or whenever you need a little tasty pick-me-up. You won’t be disappointed!
Print
Garlic Knots Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Delicious, soft garlic knots made from pizza dough, baked to golden perfection and brushed with a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these knots are infused with fresh garlic, parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese for an irresistible aroma and taste.
Ingredients
Garlic Knots Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Knots: Divide the pizza dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 6-8 inches long, then tie each into a loose knot. Arrange the knots on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake the Knots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the knots for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the knots bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. If using Parmesan cheese, add it now and stir until combined.
- Coat the Knots: Once the garlic knots are out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the warm garlic butter mixture so they absorb all the flavor.
- Serve: Serve the garlic knots warm, optionally with extra garlic butter for dipping or alongside marinara sauce for a tasty snack or side dish.
Notes
- For a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount of minced garlic or let the garlic infuse in the melted butter for a few minutes before brushing.
- Use fresh parsley for best flavor, but dried parsley can substitute if needed.
- If you prefer a cheesy twist, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top of the knots before baking.
- These knots can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispness.
- Try serving with marinara or ranch dipping sauce for variation.
