Name: Homemade Garlic Knots that Melt in Your Mouth Every Time
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough (Store-bought or homemade); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Or olive oil for a healthier option); 4 cloves garlic (Minced); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (Chopped); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Optional); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Optional)

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As I unwrapped the pizza dough, a warm wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminiscent of family gatherings filled with laughter and the inviting smell of homemade goodies. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my recipe for Easy Homemade Garlic Knots—your shortcut to crafting a delightful, buttery snack that’s irresistibly soft and chewy. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up these garlic knots in no time, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy get-together. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser that pair beautifully with marinara sauce, but they’re also a fun way to elevate any meal. Ready to fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma? Let’s dive into the world of homemade garlic knots together!

Why Should You Make Garlic Knots?

Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal effort—perfect for beginners or those short on time.

Flavor Explosion: Bursting with garlicky goodness and buttery warmth, these knots elevate any meal or snack.

Versatility: Pair them with pasta, serve them as a standalone treat, or enjoy with marinara sauce for a delightful twist!

Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or cheeses for a personalized touch that caters to your taste buds.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these garlic knots will undoubtedly impress your guests.

If you’re looking for more comforting side dishes, be sure to check out my Hearty Homemade Beef or Garlic Butter Chicken.

Homemade Garlic Knots Ingredients

• To create these easy homemade garlic knots, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

1 pound pizza dough – This serves as the delightful foundation; store-bought will save time, or you can make your own for extra love!

For the Garlic Butter

1/4 cup unsalted butter – Rich and creamy, it enhances the knots’ flavor; feel free to swap in olive oil for a healthier option.
4 cloves garlic – Minced for that irresistible garlicky punch; always opt for fresh for maximum taste.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley – Chopped for a burst of color and freshness; dried herbs work well too if fresh isn’t available.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors; adjust to your personal preference.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle, warming kick; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – An optional touch of heat for those who crave spice; omit for a gentler flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Homemade Garlic Knots

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly baked homemade garlic knots that are golden brown and delicious. While the oven heats up, gather your parchment paper and line a baking sheet to have everything ready when you’re set to bake.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
On a floured surface, roll out your 1 pound of pizza dough until it reaches about 1/2 inch thick. Using a pizza cutter or knife, slice the dough into strips roughly 1 inch wide. This will give you enough dough to create delightful knots ready for that garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Shape Knots
Take each strip of dough and tie it into a knot, creating a playful twist that will hold onto that buttery flavor. As you shape them, place the knots on the prepared baking sheet with some space in between each one so they can expand beautifully while baking.

Step 4: Make Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until liquid. Once melted, mix in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mixture will infuse your knots with incredible flavor, so stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Brush Knots
Using a pastry brush, generously coat each knot with the homemade garlic butter mixture you just prepared. Make sure to reserve some of the garlic butter for later; it will amp up the flavor after baking. The knots should glisten with the buttery goodness, enticing everyone around.

Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the garlic knots for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to turn a lovely golden brown on top while remaining soft and fluffy inside. The aroma wafting from the oven will surely be mouthwatering!

Step 7: Final Touch
After the knots are perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and use the reserved garlic butter to brush a final coat over them. This extra step enhances the garlicky flavor and adds a shiny finish to your homemade garlic knots. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!

Storage Tips for Homemade Garlic Knots

Room Temperature: Store leftover homemade garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you need to store them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for 5-10 minutes to restore their original texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze garlic knots wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Reheating: Always reheat your garlic knots in the oven for the best taste and texture, keeping them deliciously buttery and warm!

Homemade Garlic Knots Variations

Feel free to play around with these variations to make the recipe your own and discover new flavor profiles!

Olive Oil Swap: Replace unsalted butter with olive oil for a lighter, healthier twist. This will give the knots a unique flavor while keeping them moist.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano, basil, or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost that complements the garlic beautifully.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: Sprinkle your favorite shredded cheese on top before baking for a melty, decadent addition to your garlic knots. It creates a delightful gooey texture inside!
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pizza dough to cater to those with dietary restrictions. Many brands offer a great alternative that won’t compromise on taste.
Add a Sweet Element: Mix in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar with the garlic butter for a surprising touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the garlic.
Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture for a fiery twist!
Basil Pesto Infusion: Brush a thin layer of basil pesto onto your knots before adding the garlic butter for a burst of herby flavor. It adds sophistication and a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions: These garlic knots are fantastic alongside pasta dishes, but they also make a delightful snack on their own. Try them with marinara sauce or your favorite dip!

For more comfort food ideas, check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken or serve them alongside some Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Homemade Garlic Knots are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and shape the knots up to 24 hours in advance—simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you’d like to go a step further, you can store the garlic butter mixture separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade garlic knots, just take them out of the fridge, brush with the garlic butter, and bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you save valuable time during busy evenings while still delivering delightful, buttery goodness to your family!

What to Serve with Easy Homemade Garlic Knots?

Warm, buttery, and garlicky, these homemade delights can easily become the star of any meal, bringing comfort and joy to your dining table.

Creamy Alfredo Pasta: The rich and velvety sauce complements the garlic knots perfectly, enhancing their flavor without overpowering it. Pairing them together creates a harmonious blend of indulgence that will delight your taste buds!
Marinara Sauce: Serve warm alongside these knots for dipping, allowing the tangy tomato flavor to balance the buttery richness. It’s a classic combination that feels like a cozy Italian night at home.
Caesar Salad: The crunch of fresh romaine and the zesty dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the softness of the garlic knots. This pairing brings a lovely, vibrant freshness to your meal, making it feel balanced and satisfying.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized, sweet vegetables add a delightful earthy flavor that complements the savory knots. Think carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious side that elevates your dining experience.
Italian Antipasto Platter: A medley of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates a tantalizing spread for a casual gathering. The savory flavors pair beautifully with the garlic knots, making for a delightful appetizer that everyone can enjoy.
Homemade Soup: Serve these delicious knots with a bowl of warm, comforting soup like minestrone or tomato basil. It’s the perfect marriage of hearty flavors and soft textures that will warm your heart.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink to cleanse your palate. The citrusy sweetness rounds off the richness of the knots beautifully, ensuring a delightful experience.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: As a sweet finish to your meal, these warm, gooey cookies bring a nostalgia that pairs surprisingly well with the savory garlic knots. This combination is a fun twist that rounds off your gathering on a sweet note!
Wine Pairing: Consider a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or even a light red like Pinot Noir. The acidity from the wine brings out the flavors in the garlic knots, making every bite feel special.

Expert Tips for Homemade Garlic Knots

Even Thickness: Ensure the dough strips are of even thickness to guarantee that your garlic knots cook evenly and avoid some being overdone while others remain raw.
Butter Infusion: Allow the garlic butter mixture to sit for a few minutes before brushing it on the knots. This enhances the flavor infusion, making your homemade garlic knots even tastier.
Golden Brown Alert: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Remove the knots once they turn golden brown to prevent dryness; they should remain soft and chewy on the inside.
Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix in fresh or dried herbs beyond parsley for a unique twist on flavor. Options like oregano or basil can elevate your homemade garlic knots significantly.
Storage Techniques: Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature. For the best texture when reheating, pop them back in the oven briefly to restore freshness.

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Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pizza dough?
Absolutely! For the best homemade garlic knots, I recommend using high-quality pizza dough, whether it’s store-bought or homemade. If you opt for store-bought, check the ingredient list for minimal preservatives for a fresher taste. If making your own, ensure it has risen sufficiently to create a light and fluffy texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover garlic knots?
Very! Store any leftover homemade garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them even longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they can last up to 2 months. Just make sure to check for dark spots before storing!

Can I freeze garlic knots?
Absolutely! To freeze the garlic knots, prepare them as instructed but don’t bake. After shaping the knots, place them on a parchment-lined tray and put them in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and warmed through.

What if my knots are too tough or doughy after baking?
No worries! If your homemade garlic knots come out too tough, it might be due to over-kneading the dough or not allowing it sufficient rising time. Ensure you roll the dough out evenly and avoid over-baking, as this can dry them out. Aim for a golden brown color, and remember that a little under-baking keeps them soft. If they’re too doughy, they might need a bit longer in the oven!

Are there any dietary considerations for garlic knots?
Great question! If you have dietary concerns, the main ingredient to be cautious about is gluten in the pizza dough. For a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free pizza dough available in stores or make your own. Additionally, for dairy-free options, substitute the butter with olive oil, and you can also consider using vegan cheese if you decide to add cheese for that gooey element. Always check for allergies related to garlic or other ingredients, especially for guests.