Garlic Parmesan Knots

Garlic Parmesan Knots always bring a warm comforting aroma into my kitchen and I love how a simple batch of dough can transform into something so irresistible. I’m always amazed at how quickly they come together and how they manage to feel both homemade and a little special at the same time. Every time I brush on that garlicky butter I know they’ll come out golden soft and full of flavor.

When I shape the knots I enjoy the hands-on moment because twisting the dough feels relaxing and almost therapeutic. I love watching them puff up in the oven as they turn lightly browned on the edges and fill the kitchen with that familiar Italian-inspired smell. The mixture of garlic herbs and butter melts right into the dough making each knot tender and delicious from the very first bite.

I also appreciate how adaptable these knots can be because I can make them as simple or as fancy as I want with fresh herbs cheeses or dipping sauces. No matter how many I make they never last long at the table and that’s exactly why I keep going back to this recipe for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and you can always adjust the herbs or cheese depending on your taste.

• Pizza dough – Provides a soft chewy base that bakes beautifully.
• Butter – Helps give the knots their golden color and rich flavor.
• Garlic – Brings that signature aroma and savory taste.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds salty cheesy depth that pairs perfectly with herbs.
• Parsley – Gives freshness and color to the final result.
• Italian seasoning – Adds a warm herb blend that enhances the garlic butter.

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – Holds the knots and helps them bake evenly.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Small saucepan – Melts the butter and infuses the garlic.
• Pastry brush – Helps me coat the knots evenly with butter.
• Knife or bench scraper – Allows me to divide the dough into equal portions.
• Mixing bowl – Useful for tossing the warm knots in extra Parmesan and herbs.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Dough

I start by dividing my pizza dough into small even pieces then I roll each one into a rope using my hands.

Step 2: Shape the Knots

I tie each rope into a simple knot tucking the ends underneath to form a cute rounded shape.

Step 3: Add Garlic Butter

While I preheat the oven to 375°F I melt butter with minced garlic and a pinch of Italian seasoning then I brush the mixture generously over each knot.

Step 4: Bake

I place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn golden and slightly puffed.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

As soon as they come out of the oven I brush them with more garlic butter and sprinkle plenty of Parmesan and fresh parsley over the top.

Step 6: Serve Warm

I transfer them to a plate and serve immediately while they’re soft warm and extra fragrant.

Tips

I like using fresh garlic whenever possible because it gives a stronger more aromatic flavor. If I want the knots extra soft I let the shaped dough rest for 10 minutes before baking so they rise a bit more. Sometimes I mix a little olive oil into the butter to help prevent burning. For more cheesiness I toss the warm knots in extra Parmesan right after baking.

Ways to Serve

I love serving Garlic Parmesan Knots as a side for pasta dishes soups or salads because they add the perfect touch of warmth and comfort. They’re also fantastic on appetizer platters with dipping sauces like marinara ranch or garlic aioli. When I host gatherings I place them in a basket lined with a towel so they stay warm and soft throughout the meal.

Storage Instructions

I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to four. To reheat them I warm them in the oven for a few minutes until the edges crisp slightly while the inside stays soft. If they dry out a bit I brush a tiny amount of melted butter to bring back their texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Knots ahead of time?

Yes you can shape the knots and refrigerate them then bake just before serving for the freshest texture.

Why are my knots dense?

Dense knots usually come from overworking the dough or not letting it rest. I shape them gently and let them relax before baking for fluffier results.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely store-bought pizza dough works perfectly and saves a lot of time.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you enjoy making these Garlic Parmesan Knots because they’re simple cozy and always a hit. Let me know how yours turn out and feel free to save this recipe for your next pasta night or family dinner.

Happy Cooking!

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