Name: Easy Homemade Garlic Knots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Warm, fluffy, and brushed with buttery garlic goodness—these Easy Homemade Garlic Knots are not just a side dish, but a comforting experience that elevates any meal. Whether paired with pasta, enjoyed on their own, or served at family gatherings, these delightful knots capture the essence of homemade comfort food. If you’re looking for a simple way to impress your guests or simply want a cozy snack, this recipe is your answer. The irresistible aroma of fresh garlic wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eager to dig in as soon as they’re out of the oven.

There’s something truly special about biting into a soft, warm garlic knot—it’s like a hug for your taste buds! Easy Homemade Garlic Knots require minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. With just a handful of ingredients, including pizza dough and garlic, you can create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly flavorful. Plus, the addition of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan brings it all together, making every bite a bouquet of delightful flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Garlic Knots

Quick and Easy: These knots come together in under 35 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
Comfort Food: Soft, buttery, and garlicky, they hit all the right comfort food notes.
Versatile: Enjoy them as a side dish, a quick snack, or even a party appetizer.
Customizable: You can add various toppings or fillings to make them your own.
Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will adore these tasty bites.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing for your Easy Homemade Garlic Knots can enhance your cooking experience and ensure delicious results. Start by gathering all your ingredients and necessary tools. You will need just a few simple items: a good quality pizza dough (either store-bought or homemade), a rolling pin, a sharp knife or dough scraper, and a parchment-lined baking sheet. It’s wise to also have a small bowl for the garlic butter mixture and a pastry brush for application.

Before you begin, ensure your kitchen is clean and your workspace is ready to rock. If your pizza dough is refrigerated, make sure to pull it out and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to work with and help the knots rise beautifully in the oven. Prepare your baking sheet while the dough warms up to save time—all these small steps lead to a smoother cooking process!

Ingredients

1 pound pizza dough
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by allowing your pizza dough to come to room temperature if it’s been in the refrigerator. This is a crucial step that will make the dough more pliable and easier to work with. Aim for about 30 minutes of resting time—this will help in achieving those fluffy knots.

Step 2: Shape the Knots

Once your dough is ready, lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each piece into a rope measuring 6 to 8 inches in length. This part is fun! Tie each rope into a knot, making sure to tuck the ends underneath to keep them from unraveling during baking.

Step 3: Let Them Rise

Next, place your knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for expansion. Once arranged, cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This step is essential for creating those airy, soft knots.

Step 4: Bake the Knots

While your knots are rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After the rising time has passed, bake your garlic knots in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to ensure perfect color!

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter

As the knots bake, melt your butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant—don’t let it burn! After that, promptly remove it from heat, adding in the freshly chopped parsley and salt. This garlic butter mixture will be the icing on the cake for your knots.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the knots are out of the oven and still warm, brush the garlic butter generously over them with your pastry brush. This is where the flavor truly shines! Finally, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top for an indulgent finish.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Your Easy Homemade Garlic Knots are now ready to be devoured! Serve them warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful treat.

Variations

Protein: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or pepperoni slices for a meaty touch!
Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough for added flavor and nutrition.
Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or experiment with different herbs like oregano for a unique taste.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your garlic is minced finely so it evenly distributes flavor throughout the knots.
Cover the knots with a towel during the second rise to keep them warm and encourage proper rising.
If you prefer, swap out parmesan for mozzarella for a cheesier experience!
Note that the knots are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for a day or two.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside pasta dishes for a complementary side.
Add to a charcuterie board for a unique twist.
Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips

Experiment with different cheese toppings, such as feta or cheddar.
For added longevity, warm the knots in the oven for a few minutes before serving again.
Make a double batch—these will disappear quickly!
Use leftover knots for garlic bread sandwiches or mini garlic sliders.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 120 per knot
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 180mg

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time, and many varieties are delicious. Just ensure it’s at room temperature before shaping.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic on low heat until fragrant, and always remove from heat promptly after adding.

Can I make these knots in advance?

Yes! You can shape the knots and place them on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I dip my garlic knots in?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also pair them with ranch dressing, alfredo sauce, or even a garlic herb olive oil.

Conclusion

These Easy Homemade Garlic Knots are more than just a recipe; they are a delicious experience that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With their tender texture and rich flavor, they can seamlessly fit into any occasion, be it an intimate family dinner or a festive get-together. You’ll appreciate just how simple they are to whip up, while your family and friends savor every bite.

So why not give this recipe a try? Whether you choose to make them classic or add your twist, these garlic knots are destined to become a household favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any variations you’ve tried! Enjoy and happy cooking!