If you’ve ever been tempted by those irresistibly soft, fragrant garlic knots at your local pizzeria, wait until you try this Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe. It’s a delightful way to bring that same warm, buttery, garlicky goodness straight to your kitchen, with no complicated steps or fancy ingredients required. Each knot is tender on the inside with a golden crust on the outside, bursting with fresh garlic and parmesan flavors that make them absolutely addictive. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, a side, or party treats, these garlic knots will quickly become a staple you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe relies on just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a key role—from the chewy, tender dough to the garlicky, buttery glaze and the fresh pop of parsley that finishes them off perfectly.
- 1 pound pizza dough: The base of our knots, store-bought or homemade, make sure it’s at room temperature for easy shaping.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: This gives the knots that classic rich, buttery flavor that makes garlic knots so irresistible.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential here—it’s what gives these knots their signature punch.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of green color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, savory finish that takes these knots to the next level.
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt: Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors without overwhelming.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): For greasing your baking sheet to prevent sticking and add a tiny hint of fruity flavor.
How to Make Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with olive oil. This will prevent the knots from sticking and help them bake evenly. While the oven warms, roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into roughly a ½-inch thick rectangle. This thickness is just right—it ensures the knots will be fluffy on the inside and golden outside.
Step 2: Shape the Garlic Knots
Once your dough is rolled out, slice it into 1-inch wide strips. Then, tie each strip into a loose knot—it’s easier than you think and honestly kind of fun! The knots don’t have to be perfect; slight variations add to their charm and homemade appeal. Place each knot spaced apart on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Let the Knots Rise Briefly
Give your arranged knots a little rest, about 10 to 15 minutes, so they can puff ever so slightly. This short proofing step lets the dough relax and rise a bit, which translates to a softer, lighter texture after baking.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
While your knots are resting, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This luscious garlic butter mixture is the heart of this Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe, infusing every bite with rich, aromatic flavor.
Step 5: First Brush of Garlic Butter
Brush half of your garlic butter generously over the unbaked knots. This ensures that each knot soaks up flavor as it bakes, creating a beautiful golden crust and a garlicky aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden-brown color on the knots’ surface—this is when you know they’re perfectly baked, soft inside, and irresistible outside.
Step 7: Final Garlic Butter and Toppings
Take the hot knots out of the oven and immediately brush them with the remaining garlic butter. This last step ensures an extra layer of moist, buttery garlic flavor. Then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and coarse salt to give that salty, cheesy finish every garlic knot deserves.
Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve these warm, fresh from the oven garlic knots with your favorite marinara or dipping sauce. Picture the buttery, garlicky steam rising as you dig in—there really is nothing better than homemade garlic knots made easy and delicious.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe
Garnishes
To make your garlic knots look even more inviting, sprinkle extra fresh parsley or a light dusting of Parmesan just before serving. A little fresh cracked black pepper can also add a subtle kick that complements the garlic beautifully.
Side Dishes
These garlic knots pair wonderfully with classic Italian dishes like spaghetti marinara, lasagna, or a vibrant Caesar salad. They’re also fantastic alongside soups or stews where you want something perfect for mopping up rich sauces.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party presentation, pile your garlic knots in a rustic basket lined with a cloth napkin or served alongside a trio of dipping sauces—think marinara, ranch, and a spicy aioli. Kids and adults alike will love picking at these little knots of deliciousness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover garlic knots (though that might be hard!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft but lose a bit of that just-baked crispness.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your cooled garlic knots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months and are perfect for quick snacks or last-minute gatherings.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your garlic knots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and re-crisped. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that tends to make them chewy rather than delightfully soft and crusty.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the dough completely and let it come to room temperature before working with it. This helps the dough stretch easily and knot without tearing.
What if I don’t like parsley? Can I skip it?
You can skip or replace parsley with other fresh herbs like basil or oregano. Parsley adds a fresh note, but the garlic butter alone is delicious enough if you prefer a simpler flavor.
How can I make these garlic knots vegan?
Swap out the butter for a plant-based margarine or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. The knots will still be mouthwatering and full of garlic goodness!
Is there a way to make the knots more crispy?
If you love a crispier knot, you can bake them a bit longer or brush the dough with olive oil instead of butter before baking. Just watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I make these knots without tying them?
Yes! If you prefer, roll the dough into little twists or simple rolls. The tying just adds charm, but the flavor and texture will shine no matter the shape.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe is a total winner whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home cook. It’s quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring a little warmth and joy to your table. Trust me, once you taste these garlicky, buttery gems fresh out of the oven, you’ll wonder why you ever bought those frozen ones again. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to some homemade magic!
Print
Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These easy homemade garlic knots are a perfect soft and buttery treat, featuring fresh garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese brushed onto golden-baked pizza dough knots. Perfect as a side or appetizer, they are quick to prepare and deliciously flavorful.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, room temperature)
Garlic Butter & Toppings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the room temperature pizza dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips approximately 1 inch wide, then tie each strip loosely into a knot.
- Rest the Knots: Arrange the knots spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Let them rest for 10–15 minutes so they puff up slightly before baking.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley, mixing well to create a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Apply First Brush: Brush half of the garlic butter mixture over the unbaked dough knots, coating them generously.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the garlic knots for 12–15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and cooked through.
- Apply Final Brush: Remove the knots from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter to maintain a rich garlic flavor and buttery finish.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the warm garlic knots with grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of coarse salt for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve the garlic knots warm alongside marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or side treat.
Notes
- For an extra crispy exterior, broil the knots for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- You can customize by adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for more flavor.
- Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to retain crispness.
- These knots can be made ahead and baked fresh when ready to serve.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
