Garlic Knots: The Ultimate Recipe for Delicious Homemade Treats

Garlic knots are a delightful and irresistible treat that can elevate any meal or stand alone as a snack. Originating from the pizzerias of New York City, these savory bites have become a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine. The combination of soft, chewy dough tied into knots and generously coated in a buttery garlic sauce creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. I love how garlic knots are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish fresh out of the oven. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a late-night snack, garlic knots are sure to please everyone at the table. Their warm, garlicky aroma and satisfying texture make them a favorite among family and friends, and I can’t wait to share my recipe with you!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Flour, for dusting

Preparing the Dough

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your garlic knots bake perfectly once they’re ready. 2. **Prepare Your Work Surface**: Lightly dust your countertop or a large cutting board with flour. This will prevent the dough from sticking as you work with it. 3. **Divide the Dough**: If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, it usually comes in a ball. Take the dough and cut it into 12 equal pieces. If you’re making your own dough, follow your recipe until it’s ready to be shaped. 4. **Shape the Knots**: Take one piece of dough and roll it into a long rope, about 8-10 inches long. Then, tie it into a knot by looping one end over the other and tucking the end underneath. Place the knot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process with the remaining pieces of dough.

Making the Garlic Butter

5. **Melt the Butter**: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. If you’re using the microwave, do it in 30-second intervals to avoid burning the butter. 6. **Add Garlic and Herbs**: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The aroma will be heavenly!

Baking the Garlic Knots

7. **Brush the Knots**: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each knot. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor. 8. **Sprinkle with Parmesan**: If you’re a cheese lover like me, now’s the time to sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the knots. This step is optional, but it adds a deliciously cheesy flavor. 9. **Bake**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake.

Finishing Touches

10. **Prepare for Serving**: Once the garlic knots are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle and allow the flavors to settle. 11. **Final Brush**: For an extra burst of flavor, brush the knots with any remaining garlic butter mixture. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who can’t get enough garlic goodness! 12. **Garnish**: If you have any leftover parsley, feel free to sprinkle it on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

13. **Serve Warm**: Garlic knots are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them as an appetizer, snack, or alongside your favorite pasta dish. They also pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. 14. **Storage**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture. 15. **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to get creative! You can add different herbs like oregano or basil, or even sprinkle some Italian seasoning into the garlic butter for a twist. 16. **Make it a Meal**: If you want to turn these garlic knots into a full meal, consider serving them with a side salad or a hearty soup. They’re versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. 17. **Enjoy with Friends**: Garlic knots are perfect for sharing. Gather your friends or family around the table, and enjoy these delicious bites together. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering! By following these steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious garlic knots that are sure to impress. The combination of buttery garlic flavor and the soft, chewy texture of the dough makes for

Conclusion:

In summary, these garlic knots are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, buttery, and garlicky treat. They are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side dish with pasta, or even as a snack while watching your favorite movie, these knots are sure to impress your family and friends. Feel free to get creative with your garlic knots! You can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy flavor, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this garlic knots recipe a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creations. Let’s spread the love for these irresistible garlic knots together!

Print