Garlic Knots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Knots combine the comforting texture of freshly baked bread with the bold flavors of garlic and butter. The dough is simple to make, or you can use store-bought pizza dough for a shortcut. When baked, these knots turn crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. The garlic butter sauce is rich and flavorful, making each bite a savory delight. Whether you’re pairing them with pasta, serving them as an appetizer, or enjoying them as a snack, garlic knots are always a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) pizza dough (or homemade pizza dough)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Salt, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the dough: If using store-bought pizza dough, roll it out onto a lightly floured surface into a rectangle or square about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide.

3. Form the knots: Take each strip of dough and tie it into a knot. Place the knots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. If the dough is too sticky, you can lightly flour your hands.

4. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

5. Brush the knots: Brush the garlic butter generously over each garlic knot, making sure to coat them well. Reserve some butter for brushing the knots after baking.

6. Bake: Bake the garlic knots in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

7. Add finishing touches: Once baked, remove the garlic knots from the oven and brush them with the remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if using, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

8. Serve: Serve the garlic knots warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 12-15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy garlic knots: Add some mozzarella cheese into the center of each garlic knot before baking for a cheesy surprise inside.

• Herb garlic knots: Mix fresh or dried herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary into the garlic butter for extra flavor.

• Spicy garlic knots: Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

• Garlic Parmesan knots: For a richer flavor, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese over the garlic knots before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover garlic knots can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, be sure to reheat them properly to keep them fresh.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the garlic knots in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough from scratch?

Yes! You can easily make your own pizza dough at home if you prefer. Just make sure to let it rise properly before using it to form the knots.

2. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic if you prefer, but fresh garlic gives a more intense, aromatic flavor. If using garlic powder, start with about 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.

3. Can I make these garlic knots ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and form the knots ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to brush them with garlic butter right before baking. If you prefer, you can also freeze them before baking and then bake directly from the freezer (add a few extra minutes to the cooking time).

4. Can I make these garlic knots without butter?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, and they will still taste delicious.

5. Can I use frozen pizza dough?

Yes, frozen pizza dough works just as well for garlic knots. Just let it thaw completely before rolling it out and forming the knots.

6. How can I make the knots extra crispy?

To make the garlic knots extra crispy, make sure to bake them at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) and allow them to bake for the full recommended time. You can also brush them with more olive oil or butter before baking.

7. Can I serve these with a dipping sauce?

Yes! Garlic knots are perfect for dipping. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a garlic butter dipping sauce for extra flavor.

8. Can I add meat to the garlic knots?

While traditionally vegetarian, you can add cooked bacon bits, pepperoni, or sausage to the dough before forming the knots for a meaty twist.

9. Can I make these garlic knots in a bread machine?

Yes, you can make the dough in a bread machine if you prefer. Once the dough is ready, continue with the recipe as instructed.

10. How do I prevent my garlic knots from being too greasy?

To prevent greasy garlic knots, make sure to brush the knots lightly with the garlic butter, not soaking them. You can also reduce the amount of butter in the recipe to suit your preference.

Conclusion

Garlic Knots are a perfect balance of buttery, garlicky goodness and crispy, doughy texture that will have everyone reaching for more. Easy to make, quick to bake, and completely customizable, this recipe is a go-to for gatherings, dinners, or just an indulgent snack. With the rich garlic butter, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, these garlic knots are sure to be a hit every time you make them!