There’s something wonderfully satisfying about warm, buttery garlic knots fresh out of the oven. Just the thought of that soft, pillowy dough, kissed with fragrant garlic and parsley, instantly transports me to family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. One evening, after a busy day of running errands and tackling a to-do list that seemed never-ending, I found myself craving a comforting, homemade snack. That’s when I decided to whip up these easy homemade garlic knots.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these knots come together in a snap, transforming ordinary pizza dough into a savory delight that’s impossible to resist. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen is bound to create a warm, inviting ambiance, perfect for cozy evenings or lively gatherings. So, let’s dive into the savory world of garlic knots—your taste buds will thank you!
Why are these Easy Homemade Garlic Knots irresistible?
Simplicity is key: These delightful knots require minimal ingredients and effort, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible aroma: The blend of melted butter and garlic will fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering scent.
Versatile snack: Enjoy them as a side dish, appetizer, or even a late-night treat.
Crowd pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these garlic knots will impress everyone.
Quick to make: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, you’ll be savoring them in no time!
Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Ingredients
• Get ready to create the perfect snack!
- 1 package pizza dough – fresh or store-bought works beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – for that rich, savory flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic elevates the taste.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – adds a pop of color and freshness.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated – for irresistible umami goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors in these garlic knots.
Crafting easy homemade garlic knots has never been simpler!
How to Make Easy Homemade Garlic Knots
Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough instructions, typically around 425°F. This ensures a nice, even cooking temperature.
Prepare the pizza dough by letting it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This makes the dough easier to roll and shape into knots.
Roll the dough into small pieces, about the size of a golf ball, and then tie each piece into a cute knot. Tucking the ends in securely gives a lovely shape.
Melt the butter and garlic together in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step releases the rich garlic flavor that will infuse your knots.
Brush the knots with the melted garlic butter mixture generously. Don’t be shy; the more, the better!
Sprinkle the knots with a pinch of salt, followed by the chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese. This adds texture and tons of flavor that you’ll love.
Bake them in the preheated oven according to dough instructions, usually around 15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and look heavenly.
Optional: Garnish with extra parsley before serving for a fresh finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Homemade Garlic Knots are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the knots up to 24 hours in advance by shaping them and placing them on a baking sheet. Cover the knots with plastic wrap to prevent drying out, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your oven, remove the knots from the fridge, and brush them with the melted garlic butter mixture before sprinkling with salt, parsley, and parmesan. Bake as directed, and you’ll have warm, flavorful garlic knots that taste just as delicious as freshly made!
Expert Tips for Easy Homemade Garlic Knots
- Dough Temperature Matters: Allow your pizza dough to warm up before shaping. Cold dough can be difficult to work with and won’t rise as well.
- Don’t Overwork: When tying knots, be gentle! Overworking the dough can lead to tough knots instead of soft, fluffy ones.
- Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil to the garlic butter for a personalized twist on these easy homemade garlic knots.
- Oven Calibration: Ensure your oven temperature is accurate; an oven thermometer can help you achieve the perfect bake.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your garlic knots warm. They’re at their tastiest right out of the oven!
Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists on your garlic knots for an even more delightful experience.
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil and omit cheese to keep it plant-based and still flavorful.
Herb-Infused: Replace parsley with fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant, earthy flavor that adds depth to every bite.
Cheesy Twist: Add a surprise filling of mozzarella cheese in the center before tying each knot for an ooey-gooey delight.
Spicy Kick: Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic butter to give your knots a satisfying heat that brings them to life.
Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat pizza dough for a heartier and healthier version that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for an extra punch and flavor explosion that garlic enthusiasts will adore.
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey over the knots after baking for a unique sweet twist that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Veggie Version: Incorporate finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the dough for an exciting flavor variation that delights the palate.
What to Serve with Easy Homemade Garlic Knots?
Elevate your dining experience with delicious accompaniments that complement the delightful flavors of these garlic knots.
- Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, tangy marinara enhances the savory garlic with its rich tomato flavor, perfect for dipping.
- Caesar Salad: Crispy romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the warm knots. It’s a symphony of textures!
- Homemade Soup: Pair with a comforting bowl of tomato soup or garlic soup to envelop yourself in warmth and flavor harmony.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For the ultimate garlic lovers, adding another layer of garlic and cheese turns your meal into a hearty feast!
- Stuffed Peppers: The hearty stuffing of seasoned rice and ground meat balances beautifully with the light fluffiness of the garlic knots.
- Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc will complement the buttery richness while refreshing your palate.
- Dark Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich dessert that contrasts the savory flavor of the garlic knots, creating a delectable finale.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Homemade Garlic Knots
Room Temperature: Store cool garlic knots in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure they cool completely to avoid sogginess.
Fridge: Keep leftover garlic knots in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, wrapped in foil or placed in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the knots wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help restore their delightful texture and flavor of these easy homemade garlic knots.
Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough works best for garlic knots?
Absolutely, you can use either fresh or store-bought pizza dough! Both options yield delightful results. If you’re feeling adventurous, making your own dough from scratch can add an extra personal touch, but for ease and convenience, I recommend sticking with a quality store-bought brand.
How should I store leftover garlic knots?
For optimal freshness, let your garlic knots cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember to wrap them in foil or place them in a sealed container to keep them from drying out.
Can I freeze garlic knots?
Yes! Freezing these easy homemade garlic knots is a great way to enjoy them later. To freeze, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each knot tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
What should I do if my garlic knots are tough?
If your garlic knots turn out tough, it’s likely due to overworking the dough. When rolling and tying the knots, be gentle and avoid stretching the dough too much. Make sure to let your pizza dough come to room temperature before shaping, as cold dough can be more challenging to handle and might not rise properly during baking.
Can I make these garlic knots without dairy?
Very! You can easily make dairy-free garlic knots by substituting the unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil. For the parmesan, there are excellent vegan cheese alternatives that can provide a similar taste and texture. Just be sure to read labels to avoid any allergens!
What’s the best way to reheat garlic knots without losing their texture?
To maintain that soft and fluffy texture, I recommend reheating your garlic knots in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F, then place your knots on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. Enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen!
Easy Homemade Garlic Knots: The Best Comfort Snack Ever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough instructions, typically around 425°F.
- Prepare the pizza dough by letting it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Roll the dough into small pieces, about the size of a golf ball, and then tie each piece into a knot.
- Melt the butter and garlic together in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Brush the knots with the melted garlic butter mixture generously.
- Sprinkle the knots with a pinch of salt, followed by the chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake them in the preheated oven according to dough instructions, usually around 15 minutes.