Garlic Parmesan Knots are warm, fluffy bread bites coated in zesty garlic butter and sprinkled with cheesy Parmesan. They are perfect for sharing—or not! 😉
I love how easy they are to make! Just twist some dough, bake until golden, then slather on that garlic goodness. They pair perfectly with pasta or just on their own, yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: I prefer using refrigerated pizza dough for convenience. If you’d like to make it from scratch, a simple homemade dough works well too. For a gluten-free option, check out gluten-free pizza doughs available at stores.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best since it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong, robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use less (about 1/4 teaspoon) as it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is my go-to for its rich taste. If needed, Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese can work as substitutes. Just keep an eye on the saltiness!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice color and flavor. If you’re out, swap it with dried parsley or omit it altogether. Chopped chives or basil can also brighten the flavor.
How Do I Get That Perfect Golden-Brown Color?
Achieving a golden-brown color on your garlic knots is all about the right baking technique. Here are some key tips:
- Preheat your oven completely before baking. This ensures even cooking from the start.
- Keep the knots well-spaced on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around them, promoting browning.
- Brush your knots with garlic butter before and after baking to add flavor and moisture.
Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time. If they’re getting too dark too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil. Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Knots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Knots:
- 1 package (about 13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough or homemade dough
For the Garlic Butter Coating:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 2 tsp dried parsley flakes)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red chili flakes for a subtle heat
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-18 minutes of baking. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Dough:
Dust your countertop lightly with flour. Take your pizza dough and roll it out into a rectangle that’s about 12×10 inches. This will help you cut equal-sized strips for the knots.
3. Cut the Dough:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the rolled-out dough into strips that are approximately 1 inch wide. This will give you nice, manageable pieces to work with for knotting.
4. Shape into Knots:
Take each dough strip and tie it into a loose knot, making sure to tuck the ends underneath so they don’t unroll while baking. Arrange the shaped knots on your prepared baking sheet with some space between each one.
5. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. This mixture will give the knots their delicious flavor!
6. Brush the Knots:
Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each knot, making sure they are well-coated. This will add flavor and help with browning.
7. Bake the Knots:
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and look deliciously inviting!
8. Add Parmesan and Serve:
Once the knots are done baking, take them out and immediately brush them again with any remaining garlic butter. While they are still hot, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, letting it melt slightly.
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the knots cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm—perfect for sharing or for a tasty snack all to yourself!
These Garlic Parmesan Knots are fluffy and crispy, with an irresistible garlicky flavor and the richness of Parmesan. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen pizza dough, make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or leave it at room temperature for a couple of hours until it’s soft and pliable before rolling it out.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor profile. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Parmesan Knots?
Store any leftover knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can also refrigerate them. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make These Knots Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the knots and shape them ahead of time. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly before baking.
