Garlic Knots

Garlic knots are a delightful, buttery, and garlicky bread treat, perfect as a side dish or snack. These soft, golden-brown knots are brushed with a flavorful garlic butter sauce and sprinkled with fresh herbs, making them irresistible for any bread lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for pairing with pasta, soup, or as an appetizer
• Customizable with different seasonings and cheese
• Great for parties and gatherings
• Delicious homemade taste with minimal effort

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Warm water
• Instant yeast
• Sugar
• Salt
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Butter
• Fresh parsley
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
2. Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Knots: Divide the dough into small pieces, roll them into ropes, and tie each rope into a knot.
4. Second Rise: Arrange the knots on a baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
6. Make Garlic Butter: Melt butter and mix in minced garlic and chopped parsley.
7. Coat the Knots: Brush the warm knots with garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Serve: Enjoy warm as a side dish or snack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 garlic knots
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Baking Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2.5 hours

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Knots: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before baking.
• Spicy Version: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the garlic butter.
• Herb-Infused: Use rosemary, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor.
• Stuffed Garlic Knots: Add a small cube of cheese inside each knot before baking.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze baked knots in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warm.

FAQs

How do I make the dough ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well and saves time.

How do I get a crispy crust?

Bake the knots at a slightly higher temperature (400°F) for a crispier texture.

Can I make these without yeast?

Yes, you can use self-rising flour and Greek yogurt as a substitute for a quicker version.

What’s the best dipping sauce for garlic knots?

Marinara, ranch, or garlic butter sauce are excellent choices.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. A mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour is a good compromise.

How do I prevent the knots from getting too hard?

Avoid overbaking and store them properly to keep them soft.

Can I add extra toppings?

Yes, try sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or extra cheese for added flavor.

Can I make mini garlic knots?

Absolutely! Just divide the dough into smaller pieces and reduce the baking time slightly.

Are these good for meal prep?

Yes, you can freeze them and reheat when needed for a quick snack or side dish.

Conclusion

Garlic knots are a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of soft, chewy bread with a rich garlic butter topping. Whether served alongside pasta, soups, or as a standalone snack, they are a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Try making a batch today and enjoy these irresistible, homemade treats!

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