Are you ready for a snack that will blow your taste buds away? These Cheesy Garlic Butter Knots are the perfect treat for any time of day. With simple ingredients like pizza dough, buttery garlic, and gooey cheese, you can whip up a batch in no time. Follow along as I guide you through each step, sharing tips and tricks for delicious results. You won’t want to miss this irresistible snack recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to make, taking just 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking.
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously gooey and cheesy experience.
- Flavorful Garlic Butter: The garlic butter adds a rich, savory flavor that elevates these knots to another level.
- Perfect for Dipping: Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, making them an ideal appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
The main ingredients are simple and easy to find. You need a package of pizza dough. This dough forms the base of your knots. The butter adds richness. It also helps the garlic stick. We use minced garlic for a strong, bold flavor.
Seasoning and Cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Dried parsley gives a fresh touch to the knots. It adds color and flavor. Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully. It stretches and pulls when you bite into the knots. If you want extra flavor, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Spices and Flavor Enhancers
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic powder boosts the garlic taste. The salt brings out all the flavors. Black pepper adds a little kick. Together, these spices make the knots irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Tray
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Line a baking tray with parchment paper. This helps keep the knots from sticking.
Making the Garlic Butter Mixture
– Mix melted butter with garlic, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
– Stir well until all the ingredients blend together. This mixture gives the knots their rich flavor.
Shaping the Dough
– Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
– Cut the dough into strips, roughly 1 inch wide and 6 inches long.
– Take each strip and tie it into a knot.
– Place the knots on the baking tray, leaving space between them. This allows them to rise while baking.
Applying the Garlic Butter and Cheese
– Brush the garlic butter mixture over each knot. Make sure some garlic pieces sit on top.
– Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the knots. Aim for good coverage for cheesy goodness.
– If you want, add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Baking the Knots
– Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
– Watch for them to turn golden brown and the cheese to bubble up.
Final Touches
– Once baked, remove the knots from the oven.
– Brush them with any remaining garlic butter for added flavor.
– Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfect Dough Consistency
For great knots, roll out your dough evenly. Use a floured surface to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. If the dough is too thick, the knots may not bake well.
When cutting strips, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. This helps avoid tearing. Cut strips about 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. Handle the dough gently to keep it intact.
Enhancing Flavor
Want to change the flavor? You can swap garlic with garlic powder or roasted garlic. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a nice twist. Feel free to mix things up with your favorite seasonings.
For dipping, marinara sauce works great. You can also try ranch or a cheesy dip. These options will make your knots even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, arrange the knots on a large platter. Garnish with fresh parsley for a colorful touch. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
These knots pair well with pasta dishes or salads. They are great as a snack or side dish. Enjoy them with friends or family for a fun meal!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide a stronger and more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- Perfectly Golden Knots: For an even browning, rotate the baking tray halfway through the baking time to ensure uniform heat distribution.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the knots in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the cheese to mix things up. Try cheddar for a sharp taste. Gouda gives a nice creamy texture. Each cheese brings a unique flavor to your knots.
If you want a milder taste, use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic. Roasting garlic makes it sweet and soft. This swap gives a new twist to your knots.
Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Want more kick? Add red pepper flakes for heat. Just a sprinkle adds a nice zing.
You can also toss in some veggies for more color and taste. Spinach adds a fresh bite. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a rich, sweet flavor that pairs well with cheese.
Different Cooking Methods
For a healthier option, try the air fryer. It cooks the knots quickly and makes them crispy. Set your fryer to 375°F and cook for about 10 minutes.
You can also grill the knots for a smoky flavor. Just tie the dough as usual and place them on the grill. Watch them closely; they take less time than baking. The grill adds a fun char and unique taste.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover cheesy garlic butter knots, place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. The knots will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these knots before or after baking. To freeze before baking, shape the knots and place them on a baking tray. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a bag. For after baking, let them cool first. Then, store them in a freezer bag. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
Avoiding Sogginess
To keep your knots crispy, use a paper towel in the container. This will absorb extra moisture. When reheating, avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy. Instead, stick with the oven for the best texture. Enjoy your cheesy garlic butter knots as if they were fresh!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough. Using homemade dough adds a fresh taste. It gives you control over the ingredients. Here are some tips for using it:
– Allow the dough to rise for at least an hour.
– Roll it out to the same thickness as the refrigerated dough.
– Make sure to season it with herbs for extra flavor.
How can I make these knots ahead of time?
You can prepare these knots ahead of time. Here are some options:
– Shape the knots and place them on the tray. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
– Bake them straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
– You can also freeze the shaped knots. Place them on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding more time as needed.
What can I serve with Cheesy Garlic Butter Knots?
These knots pair well with many dishes. Here are some tasty suggestions:
– Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
– They are great alongside a fresh salad.
– Pair them with pasta dishes, like spaghetti or fettuccine.
Can I make these knots vegan?
You can make these knots vegan with easy swaps. Here’s what to do:
– Use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
– Swap mozzarella for a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
– Check that your pizza dough is dairy-free. Many brands are, but it’s good to verify.
This blog post covered how to make Cheesy Garlic Butter Knots. We detailed the main ingredients, including pizza dough, garlic, and cheese, along with step-by-step instructions for baking. We also discussed tips for perfecting flavor and texture, and variations to keep the recipe exciting.
In closing, these knots are simple, delicious, and great for sharing. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or with your favorite dip. Whether hosting or snacking, these knots are sure to delight everyone at your tabl
