There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of fresh garlic wafting through your kitchen, instantly transforming your home into a cozy haven. Picture this: you receive unexpected guests, or perhaps it’s just another weeknight with family, and you realize you need a quick, satisfying appetizer to impress. That’s where these homemade garlic knots come swooping in like superheroes! Fluffy and golden, they are not only easy to make with either store-bought or homemade pizza dough, but they also carry an aromatic punch thanks to a generous slathering of buttery garlic goodness.
Wait until you pull these beauties from the oven—crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside, and topped with melting Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Whether you’re looking to spice up a movie night or bring something delightful to a potluck, these garlic knots are both a crowd-pleaser and a love letter to the joy of homemade food. Ready in under an hour, they’re the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, ensuring your kitchen becomes the heart of the gathering. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s turn that dough into the most irresistible garlic knots you’ve ever tasted!
Why are Garlic Knots a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: Transform your weeknight meals with this effortless recipe that takes less than an hour to make.
Unmatched Aroma: The enticing scent of fresh garlic fills your kitchen, creating a comforting atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as a game-day snack or party appetizer, these garlic knots will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Versatile Base: Whether you opt for homemade or store-bought pizza dough, this recipe allows for flexibility, making it simple to whip up on a whim.
Customizable Flavor: From adding red pepper flakes for heat to brushing with pesto for a fresh twist, you can easily tweak the flavors to your family’s preferences.
Elevate your next meal with these delightful garlic knots and discover why they’re a fan favorite!
Garlic Knots Ingredients
For the Dough
- Pizza Dough – Provides the fluffy base; you can use store-bought for convenience or make homemade for an extra touch.
For the Garlic Butter
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and is necessary for that decadent flavor; feel free to substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic – Intensely infuses each knot with flavor; fresh garlic is best for taste, so adjust according to preference.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; if you don’t have it, sea salt is a great alternative.
For the Topping
- Parsley – Enhances freshness and color; dried parsley works in a pinch but lacks vibrance.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan – Delivers a savory, cheesy finish; for a vegan option, nutritional yeast is an excellent substitute.
Optional Kick
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a subtle heat; sprinkle in for a spicy twist.
- Pesto – Swap the garlic butter for pesto to introduce a fresh dimension to the flavor.
Get ready to create delicious garlic knots that will steal the show at your next gathering!
How to Make Garlic Knots
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your garlic knots bake evenly and develop that delightful golden crust.
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Roll the pizza dough into strips, about 1-inch wide, and then twist each strip into a knot shape. Tuck the ends underneath to create a tidy appearance that holds together beautifully.
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Melt butter in a small bowl over low heat. Once melted, mix in the minced garlic, kosher salt, and chopped parsley until well combined. This will be the aromatic garlic butter that makes your knots irresistible!
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Brush the knots generously with the garlic butter mixture. Be generous here—this is what adds that wonderful flavor and moisture to each knot!
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Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese evenly across the knots before placing them in the oven. This cheesy layer will melt and create an umami-rich topping that you won’t want to miss.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. You’ll know they’re done when they look perfectly crispy and delicious!
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Cool slightly before serving so they’re warm but not scalding. This brief waiting period allows the flavors to settle and makes them easier to handle.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra parsley before serving for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Knots are perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be made ahead of time! You can prepare the dough knots up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain their fluffy texture, make sure they are well covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your garlic knots, simply brush them with the garlic butter mixture and bake them directly from the fridge—no need to wait for them to come to room temperature! This way, you can have fresh, warm garlic knots ready with minimal last-minute effort, making it a true time-saver for your family gatherings or snack cravings.
Expert Tips for Garlic Knots
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Room Temperature Dough: Allow your pizza dough to come to room temperature before rolling. Cold dough can be tough to work with and may not rise properly.
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Knot Shapes Don’t Matter: Don’t fret over the appearance of your knots! Focus on flavor, as they’ll taste delightful regardless of how they look.
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Garlic Intensity: If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount or even use roasted garlic for a sweeter, richer flavor in your garlic knots.
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Butter Application: Be generous with the garlic butter brushing—this will ensure that each knot is infused with that delicious buttery garlic goodness.
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Try New Flavors: Experiment with adding spices like red pepper flakes or herbs such as oregano to customize your garlic knots according to your family’s taste preferences.
Garlic Knots Customizations
Feel free to get creative and make these garlic knots uniquely yours with these simple twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based margarine for a dairy-free version that still delivers on flavor.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter for a fragrant herbaceous kick that elevates each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the buttery richness.
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Cheeseboard Twist: Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist packed with flavor.
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Garlic Lovers: Don’t hold back—double the garlic amount or try using roasted garlic for an incredibly rich and sweet flavor.
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Whole Wheat: Make a healthier version by using whole wheat pizza dough, adding extra fiber without sacrificing taste.
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Pesto Brushing: Brush your knots with basil pesto instead of garlic butter to introduce a fresh and vibrant flavor profile.
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Sweet & Savory: For a fun twist, add a drizzle of honey before serving for a unique balance of sweet and savory on your garlic knots.
These variations ensure that your garlic knots can suit any palate or occasion while keeping the deliciousness intact!
Storage Tips for Garlic Knots
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Room Temperature: Store leftover garlic knots at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
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Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate garlic knots for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze garlic knots for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper for easy access.
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Reheating: To enjoy frozen knots, reheat directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
What to Serve with Garlic Knots?
A delightful array of pairings can elevate your garlic knots to new heights, making every meal memorable.
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Marinara Sauce: This classic pairing adds a zesty dip, enhancing the garlicky flavor while providing a comforting touch. It’s irresistible for those who can’t resist a little pizza night nostalgia!
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Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine with creamy dressing makes for a refreshing contrast to the soft garlic knots. The crispness balances the rich buttery bites perfectly.
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Stuffed Peppers: Complement the knots with hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice, cheese, and veggies. This dish provides a satisfying, wholesome contrast against the fluffy garlic knots.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasting alongside your knots brings a bright and healthy element to your meal. Their slight char and earthy flavor complement the knots beautifully.
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Beer or Wine: Pair with a light beer or a crisp white wine. The carbonation or acidity cuts through the richness, creating a balanced and enjoyable dining experience.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings: If you’re a fan of flavor-packed dishes, serve these wings alongside your knots. The garlicky theme continues, making your meal a savory feast!
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl adds a comforting element that perfectly contrasts the soft knots. The dipping opportunity creates a delightful tasting experience.
Dive into an unforgettable meal by exploring these delicious pairings with your garlic knots!
Garlic Knots Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough works best for garlic knots?
Absolutely! You can use either store-bought pizza dough for convenience or make your own from scratch. If you’re using homemade dough, be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. This makes it easier to work with and ensures a soft, fluffy knot.
How should I store leftover garlic knots?
For maximum freshness, store any leftover garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure they’re sealed well to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze garlic knots, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze garlic knots! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, stacking layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
What can I do if my garlic knots don’t rise properly?
If you find that your garlic knots aren’t rising as expected, ensure your dough is at room temperature before shaping. A cold dough can be difficult to stretch and won’t rise well. Also, check that your yeast is fresh if you’re making homemade dough; inactive yeast won’t create the fluffy texture we want.
Are garlic knots safe for pets and those with allergies?
Always keep garlic away from pets, as it can be toxic to them. Additionally, if you have allergies, be cautious of ingredients. Consider using margarine for a dairy-free option and ensure substitutions like nutritional yeast for cheese are suitable. Always check label information to be safe!
How long do garlic knots last in the fridge or freezer?
In the fridge, garlic knots will last for about a week when stored in airtight conditions. If frozen, they can maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re delightful and warm again.
Garlic Knots: Quick and Irresistible Appetizer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll the pizza dough into strips, about 1-inch wide, and twist each strip into a knot shape.
- Melt butter in a small bowl over low heat. Mix in minced garlic, kosher salt, and chopped parsley.
- Brush the knots generously with the garlic butter mixture.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before placing them in the oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Cool slightly before serving.