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
