I still remember the very first time I made garlic knots. It was during a cozy evening when friends came over unexpectedly, and I needed something quick yet impressive to serve. Instead of reaching for something store-bought, I decided to get creative with some leftover pizza dough. I rolled it, twisted it, tied it into little knots, brushed them generously with garlic butter, and baked them until golden brown. The aroma that filled my kitchen was enough to make everyone impatiently gather around the oven. When I pulled them out, glistening and fragrant, they disappeared almost instantly. Since then, garlic knots have become one of my go-to recipes whenever I want to serve something simple yet special.
Over the years, I’ve perfected the recipe, adjusting the dough, seasoning, and butter topping to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and softness. These knots are chewy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and bursting with buttery garlic goodness. They’ve become a staple in my kitchen, and every time I bake them, I’m reminded of that very first night when a simple experiment turned into an unforgettable treat.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love these garlic knots for their irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The buttery garlic coating makes each bite rich and savory, while the soft dough inside keeps them pillowy and satisfying. They’re easy to make, even if you’re not an experienced baker, and they bring a touch of homemade comfort to any table. Whether you serve them as a side, snack, or appetizer, they’re guaranteed to please.
Versatile
These garlic knots are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them alongside pasta, soups, or salads, or simply eat them on their own as a snack. They can be brushed with extra parmesan, sprinkled with herbs, or even stuffed with cheese for a fun twist. You can also serve them with marinara sauce for dipping, which makes them even more enjoyable.
Affordable
One of the best things about garlic knots is how budget-friendly they are. Made with simple pantry staples like flour, yeast, butter, garlic, and olive oil, they don’t require any fancy ingredients. With just a few basic items, you can create a restaurant-quality snack at home without spending much money.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 cup warm water
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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4 garlic cloves, finely minced
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Prepare This Recipe
Preparing garlic knots at home may sound complicated, but it is actually very simple and straightforward. The process begins with making a soft dough, then shaping it into little knots, baking them until golden, and finishing with a flavorful garlic butter glaze. Every step adds to the final result, ensuring your knots are fluffy inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and full of rich garlic flavor.
When I bake these garlic knots, I like to make the dough from scratch because it gives me full control over texture and flavor. However, if you’re short on time, you can also use ready-made pizza dough for quicker preparation. The real magic happens with the buttery garlic mixture that coats each knot, turning a simple piece of bread into a delightful, mouthwatering treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Step 1 – Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active, which is crucial for making the dough rise properly.
Step 2 – Mix the Ingredients
Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about eight to ten minutes. You should end up with a smooth, elastic dough that bounces back when pressed lightly with your finger.
Step 3 – Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour. The dough should double in size, which gives the knots their fluffy texture.
Step 4 – Shape the Knots
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into small equal portions, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each piece into a rope around six inches long, then tie it into a simple knot. Tuck the ends underneath to form a neat shape.
Step 5 – Second Rise
Arrange the shaped knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Cover them loosely and let them rest for another fifteen minutes. This short rise helps them puff slightly before baking.
Step 6 – Bake the Knots
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. The smell of fresh bread mixed with hints of yeast will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait.
Step 7 – Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the knots bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, about one to two minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley and parmesan if using. Remove from the heat and keep warm until the knots are ready.
Step 8 – Coat the Knots
As soon as the knots come out of the oven, brush them generously with the warm garlic butter. Be sure to coat every side so they absorb the flavor. Serve them immediately while they’re still warm, soft, and aromatic.
Quick and Easy
This recipe may seem like it takes time, but most of it is resting and rising time for the dough. The active work you’ll do is minimal. If you use pre-made pizza dough, you can have garlic knots ready in less than thirty minutes, making them a perfect last-minute snack or appetizer.
Customizable
One of the best things about garlic knots is how easily customizable they are. You can add shredded mozzarella into the dough for cheesy garlic knots, sprinkle chili flakes for a spicy kick, or brush them with a mixture of olive oil and herbs instead of butter for a lighter version. If you want to make them even more indulgent, serve them with marinara, cheese dip, or ranch on the side.
Popular With Many People
Garlic knots are universally loved. Whether you serve them at a family dinner, bring them to a gathering, or offer them as a snack for kids, they always disappear quickly. Their simple yet bold flavor makes them appealing to both adults and children. They are not only comforting but also impressive because they look beautiful on the table with their golden shine and sprinkle of herbs.
PrintMouthwatering Garlic Knots You Must Try
These garlic knots are soft, fluffy, and bursting with buttery garlic flavor. Made from a simple homemade dough and brushed with a rich garlic butter glaze, they are the perfect side dish or snack. Whether served with pasta, soups, or as a party appetizer, they always impress.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
- Yield: 16 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide into small portions, about the size of a golf ball.
- Roll each portion into a rope about 6 inches long. Tie into a knot and tuck the ends underneath.
- Place shaped knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake knots for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, melt butter in a small saucepan. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in parsley and parmesan (if using).
- Remove knots from oven and brush generously with garlic butter. Serve warm.
Notes
For a cheesier version, sprinkle extra parmesan on top before serving.
If short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough.
Serve with marinara sauce or ranch for dipping.
FAQs
Can I make garlic knots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking. You can also bake the knots ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes.
Can I freeze garlic knots?
Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, place the knots in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven to restore their softness.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, using store-bought pizza dough is a great shortcut when you want to save time. The flavor and texture will still be delicious, and you’ll have garlic knots ready much faster.
What can I serve with garlic knots?
They pair wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, and salads. For dipping, marinara sauce, cheese sauce, or even flavored olive oil work perfectly.
How do I keep garlic knots soft?
Brush them with garlic butter right after baking and store them in an airtight container while still slightly warm. This traps moisture and keeps them pillowy for hours.