Do you love the smell of fresh garlic and melted cheese? If so, you’ll adore this simple Garlic Parmesan Knots recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delightful snack or side dish that will impress everyone. These buttery, cheesy knots are quick to make and perfect for sharing. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create these tasty bites!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
To make Garlic Parmesan Knots, you need simple ingredients. The pizza dough gives a nice base. The melted butter adds richness. Garlic adds strong flavor. Oregano and garlic powder boost the taste and aroma. Parmesan cheese brings a salty, cheesy touch. Fresh parsley finishes the dish with color and freshness. Salt and pepper help balance the flavors.
Optional Ingredients
– Additional herbs (e.g., thyme, basil)
– Cheese variations (e.g., mozzarella, cheddar)
– Dipping sauces (e.g., marinara, ranch)
You can have fun with optional ingredients. Try adding herbs like thyme or basil for more flavor. Different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can change the taste. Dipping sauces like marinara or ranch can enhance the whole experience. These choices let you personalize your knots to your liking.
For the full recipe, check the details above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even baking. Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
– Prepare the dough: On a clean, floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle. Aim for a thickness of about ½ inch. This thickness helps the knots rise well.
– Cut and shape the dough: Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips about 1 inch wide. Take each strip and twist it into a knot shape. Make sure the knot is secure.
Baking Steps
– Arrange on the baking sheet: Carefully place your twisted knots onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each knot so they can expand while baking.
– Mix the garlic butter: In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it well until all ingredients blend together.
– Apply garlic butter to knots: Using a brush, generously coat half of the knots with the garlic butter mixture. Covering them well ensures they soak up all that great flavor.
– Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn a lovely golden brown.
– Drizzle and finalize: Once baked, take the knots out of the oven. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter mixture over the hot knots. This adds a burst of flavor right at the end.
Finishing Touches
– Cheese sprinkle: While the knots are still warm, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. The heat helps the cheese melt slightly, creating a tasty topping.
– Garnish and serve: Finally, add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. Serve warm for the best taste experience. If you want to impress, arrange the knots on a platter with a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.
You can find the full recipe above to guide you through these steps!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To twist the knots perfectly, start by cutting the dough into even strips. Aim for one-inch wide pieces. When twisting, hold both ends of the strip and give it a gentle twist. This helps create a nice shape. Make sure to secure the ends well to avoid them coming undone during baking.
For a golden brown finish, keep a close eye on your knots as they bake. The right color means they are ready. Bake them for about 12-15 minutes at 400°F. The tops should be golden, and the edges should look crispy.
Timing is key for exact baking. If your oven runs hotter or cooler, adjust your baking time. Check the knots around the 10-minute mark. You want them to be perfectly baked, not overdone.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic knots pair wonderfully with marinara sauce. A small bowl for dipping adds a fun touch. You can also try them with ranch dressing for a creamy option.
For drinks, serve garlic knots with a nice glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer non-alcoholic, sparkling water with lemon works well too.
Get creative with serving! Try stacking the knots in a bowl or on a platter. You can even add fresh herbs on top for a pop of color. Another idea is to serve them with a side of garlic butter for extra dipping fun.
For the full recipe, be sure to check the detailed instructions provided earlier.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can mix up the flavor of your garlic Parmesan knots. Here are some ideas:
– Adding different herbs or spices: Try adding fresh thyme or dried basil to the garlic butter. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
– Incorporating other types of cheese: Swap Parmesan for mozzarella or cheddar. These cheeses melt well and add a different taste.
– Bourbon-infused garlic butter: For a unique twist, mix a splash of bourbon into the garlic butter. It adds a rich depth to the flavor.
Dietary Variations
You can adapt this recipe to fit different diets. Here are some options:
– Gluten-free options: Use gluten-free pizza dough for a tasty alternative. Many brands offer great gluten-free choices.
– Vegan adaptations: Replace butter with vegan butter and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. This keeps the flavor while making it plant-based.
– Low-carb substitutions: For a low-carb version, consider using cauliflower dough. It’s a great way to enjoy these knots while cutting carbs.
These variations let you enjoy garlic Parmesan knots in many ways. The recipe is simple, and you can customize it based on what you like or need. Check out the Full Recipe for more details!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
After you enjoy your garlic Parmesan knots, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about three days. When you want to eat them again, reheat them in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes. This helps keep them crisp.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to keep your knots for longer, you can freeze them. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy them later, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best taste. For the full recipe, check the earlier section!
FAQs
Common Questions
How to make garlic knots from scratch?
To make garlic knots from scratch, you need flour, yeast, water, and salt. Combine these ingredients to form a dough. Knead the dough until smooth, then let it rise. Once it doubles in size, roll, cut, and twist into knots. Follow the steps in the Full Recipe for more details.
Can I use homemade dough instead?
Yes, you can use homemade dough. Just ensure it has a good rise and is easy to work with. Homemade dough can add a personal touch and unique flavor to your garlic knots.
What to do if dough sticks to the surface?
If your dough sticks, sprinkle more flour on the surface. Use a bench scraper to lift it gently. You can also roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Cooking Questions
How do I know when they are fully baked?
Garlic knots are fully baked when they turn a golden brown. You can also tap the bottom; it should sound hollow. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the knots ahead of time. Shape them and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temp for about 30 minutes before baking.
What are good dipping sauces for garlic knots?
Good dipping sauces include marinara, ranch, and garlic butter. You can also try pesto or a spicy aioli for a twist. Each sauce adds a unique flavor to the garlic knots.
This blog post shared how to make delicious garlic knots from simple ingredients. You learned the main steps, tips for perfection, and easy variations. Whether you want them gluten-free or vegan, there’s a version for you. Remember to pair your garlic knots with tasty dips and drinks for a great snack. Making these knots can be fun and rewarding. Grab the dough, gather your extras, and enjoy this tasty treat!
