If you have a soft spot for warm, buttery, garlicky treats that are ridiculously easy to make, this Garlic Knots Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These tender, twisted dough bites are loaded with fragrant garlic, herbs, and parmesan, baked to golden perfection, and perfect for sharing at any gathering or simply enjoying as a cozy snack. Whether you’re dipping them into marinara or savoring them straight from the pan, these garlic knots bring that classic pizzeria feel right into your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Knots Recipe starts with a handful of simple, staple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each plays an essential role: the pizza dough forms the soft base, butter imparts rich moisture, and the garlic and herbs infuse every bite with irresistible flavor.
- 1 (14-ounce) package of pizza dough: Using pre-made dough saves time and ensures a deliciously soft texture.
- ¼ cup salted butter: This adds richness and helps the herbs stick to the knots perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers that essential garlicky punch without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the garlic nicely.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery note and a pop of green.
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a savory, melty finish that’s hard to resist.
How to Make Garlic Knots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans
Start by lining your baking pans with parchment paper and lightly spraying with non-stick spray. This ensures that your knots won’t stick and clean-up is a breeze.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Open the pizza dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a clean surface. This shape makes it easier to cut even pieces for your knots.
Step 3: Cut the Dough
Cut the rectangle in half to create two equal squares, then slice each square into 4 strips lengthwise. Next, cut those strips in half to get 16 pieces of dough, all roughly the same size.
Step 4: Form the Knots
Roll each piece into about an 8-inch rope and tie it into a knot. You can tuck the ends underneath the knot or leave them visible—either way, it adds a charming rustic look.
Step 5: Arrange and Rise
Place each knot onto your prepared pan, leaving some space between them. Cover lightly and allow the knots to rise until they double in size—this usually takes about an hour and makes them delightfully fluffy.
Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Butter Mixture
While the knots are rising, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Melt the butter and stir in garlic powder, oregano, and parsley. Keep some of this mixture aside for brushing later along with the parmesan.
Step 7: Bake the Knots
Once risen, brush the knots generously with the herbed butter and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 8: Add Parmesan and Serve
Combine the reserved butter with the parmesan cheese and brush this flavorful mixture over the warm knots after baking. You can also sprinkle extra parmesan on top for an added cheesy kick. Consider serving with a side of marinara for dipping—it’s heavenly.
How to Serve Garlic Knots Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra burst of color and taste, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes over the garlic knots. A light dusting of grated parmesan right before serving adds a beautiful finishing touch too.
Side Dishes
Garlic knots pair wonderfully with Italian-inspired meals like pasta, soups, or salads. Imagine a steaming bowl of tomato basil soup or a crisp Caesar salad alongside your garlic knots—pure comfort at its finest.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the knots in a basket lined with a pretty cloth napkin to make your table inviting and warm. Or stack them high on a wooden board for a casual party snack that invites everyone to dig in and share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They stay soft and flavorful, making them an easy grab-and-go snack the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save the knots for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your garlic knots in a 350-degree oven for about 8–10 minutes. This brings back the golden crust and soft, buttery interior perfectly—just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully and adds a personal touch. Just be sure it’s at room temperature before you start shaping your knots.
What if I don’t have garlic powder? Can I use fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic can be used but be cautious with the quantity as it’s more intense. Mince it finely and sauté in butter before brushing on the knots for a smoother flavor.
How long do the garlic knots stay fresh?
Best enjoyed within the first two days, garlic knots can lose some softness after that, but reheating can help revive their freshness.
Can I make these knots vegan?
You can easily veganize this Garlic Knots Recipe by swapping the butter for a plant-based alternative and skipping the parmesan or using a vegan cheese substitute.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Using a gluten-free pizza dough base works well, just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary depending on the dough’s recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Knots Recipe is pure comfort food joy, combining simple ingredients, easy steps, and a delicious result that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. They’re perfect for gatherings or just when you want to treat yourself to something special. I can’t wait for you to try making these and share that first buttery, garlicky bite with friends or family!
