If you have ever wondered how to elevate a simple garlic knot into a taste sensation that steals the show, this Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe is the answer you’ve been craving. With soft, fluffy pizza dough twisted into charming little knots and generously brushed with fragrant garlic butter, then adorned with gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan, these knots bring comfort and joy in every bite. Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a cozy night at home, they have the ideal balance of buttery, garlicky richness and irresistible cheese pull that will make you come back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients sets the stage for incredible flavor and texture in this Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect bite — from the airy dough to the aromatic garlic and the luscious melted cheese that melts your heart.
- 1 lb pizza dough: Whether store-bought or homemade, this soft base is the canvas for all the magic.
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or olive oil): Adds richness and helps crisp up the knots while carrying the garlic flavor beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that signature punch and warmth that garlic lovers crave.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey pockets that create that delightful cheese pull.
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top to round out the flavor.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses herbal notes that elevate the garlic butter with classic Italian flair.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances the dough and toppings.
- Optional garnish – fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, marinara sauce: These add color, a touch of heat, and a tangy dip to complete the experience.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Divide your pizza dough into 12 equal pieces to ensure even baking. Roll each piece into an 8 to 10-inch rope, then elegantly tie it into a knot, tucking the ends underneath to create that classic shape.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. This vibrant garlic butter blend will infuse every knot with delicious aroma and flavor, becoming the essence of this Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe.
Step 3: Brush and Add Cheese
Lightly brush each knot with the garlic butter mix. Then, either press a pinch of shredded mozzarella into the center of each knot for a cheesy surprise or sprinkle it on top. The key is to ensure that as they bake, the cheese melts beautifully into the dough.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Place your prepared knots onto the lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch eagerly as they turn a lovely golden brown with bubbling cheese, a sign that they are perfectly cooked and ready to be devoured.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once out of the oven, brush any remaining garlic butter over the knots for extra flavor punch. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top, adding that irresistible finishing touch to your Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley brings a vibrant color and fresh note that brightens each bite, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds an exciting little kick for those who love a touch of heat. Don’t forget a ramekin of warm marinara sauce—the perfect tangy dip that complements the buttery, cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
These knots pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. They also make a fantastic appetizer at a party, perfect next to your favorite pasta or grilled chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange your Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe in a circular wreath shape on a platter, perfect for holiday entertaining. You can also sprinkle chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes over the top before baking to add extra layers of flavor and vibrant color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which can be rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keeping them covered preserves their soft texture, preventing them from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze these knots before baking. Place the shaped knots on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 3 to 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through evenly.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This method crisps the outside while warming the inside, reviving that fresh-from-the-oven texture and keeping the cheese heavenly melted.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pizza dough works perfectly for the Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly based on your dough’s instructions and enjoy the same cheesy, garlicky delight.
How do I make these knots vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the butter for vegan butter or olive oil and use plant-based mozzarella and parmesan substitutes. This ensures everyone can enjoy these tasty knots without missing out on the signature cheesy goodness.
Can I prepare the dough knots ahead of time and refrigerate?
Yes! You can shape the knots and store them in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying, then bake directly from chilled.
What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella is ideal for that melty, stretchy texture, but adding parmesan on top brings a nice sharp flavor. For extra gooeyness, small cubes of fresh mozzarella stuffed inside the knots create an incredible cheese pull.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the soft texture and cheesy flavor, plus the fun of dipping in marinara sauce. You can adjust the garlic and seasoning to make it milder if preferred for little palates.
Final Thoughts
Friends, this Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the warmth and comfort of homemade garlic bread with an exciting cheesy twist. Easy to make and fun to share, it’s a recipe destined to become one of your favorites to impress guests or treat yourself anytime. So grab your dough, get twisting, and dive into these irresistible bites—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Knots Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 knots
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, fluffy pizza-dough knots brushed with garlic butter and stuffed or topped with melty cheese — a crowd-favorite Italian-American appetizer that’s perfect for parties or a savory snack.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or olive oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
Cheese & Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, marinara for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough Knots: Cut the pizza dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 8–10 inch rope, then tie each rope into a knot, tucking the ends underneath to secure.
- Make Garlic Butter: Combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt in a bowl. Mix well to infuse the flavors.
- Brush and Add Cheese: Lightly brush each knot with the garlic butter mixture. Then, press a pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese into the center of each knot or sprinkle some on top as preferred.
- Bake: Place the knots on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Finish and Garnish: Once baked, brush the knots with any remaining garlic butter, then sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Add red pepper flakes if desired for a bit of heat.
- Serve Warm: Serve the cheesy garlic knots warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping, perfect for sharing and enjoying immediately.
Notes
- For extra cheese pull, use small cubes of mozzarella stuffed inside each knot instead of shredded cheese.
- To make vegan, substitute butter with vegan butter and use dairy-free cheeses.
- To reheat, warm the knots in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to re-crisp.
- Knots can be frozen before baking; bake them straight from frozen and add 3–5 minutes to the baking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
