If you’ve ever craved a warm, irresistible treat that pairs perfectly with any Italian meal or stands gloriously on its own, these Garlic Knots with Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe are exactly what you need. Soft, pillowy knots of pizza dough baked to golden perfection and drenched in a fragrant homemade garlic butter sauce bring that cozy, comforting magic to your kitchen. Each bite bursts with garlic goodness, fresh parsley brightness, and a delightful hint of Parmesan, making these knots unforgettable and an absolute crowd-pleaser. Ready to dive into the magic? Let’s get rolling!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great recipe starts with simple, quality ingredients, and this one is no exception. Each component plays a vital role—from the chewy dough that forms the base to the rich garlic butter that elevates every bite. Here’s what you’ll gather to create this iconic appetizer classic.
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought): The foundation of the knots, providing that soft, chewy texture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Melts into a luscious base for the garlic butter sauce, giving richness without overpowering flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic is key to that bold, aromatic punch in the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh herbal note to balance the garlic’s intensity.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, earthy heat that complements the garlic beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick, these bring warm spice without overwhelming.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish that melts into the knots.
How to Make Garlic Knots with Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Shape the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle about half an inch thick. Then, using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 12 equal strips. Each strip transforms into a charming knot when tied—this simple step creates that iconic shape we all love. Place each knot evenly spaced on your baking sheet, ready for baking.
Step 2: Bake the Knots
Pop your knots into the oven and bake them for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This baking time ensures the dough cooks through while developing a slightly crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is nothing short of heavenly.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the knots bake, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes—just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as you want that fresh, mellow garlic flavor to shine. Remove the pan from heat and stir in salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, and the chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Step 4: Brush and Finish
The moment your knots emerge golden and hot from the oven, brush each one liberally with the homemade garlic butter sauce. The heat helps the sauce soak in, infusing every nook and cranny. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top while the knots are still warm, allowing it to melt slightly into the buttery goodness. Serve these warm for maximum enjoyment!
How to Serve Garlic Knots with Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To make your garlic knots even more inviting, garnish with additional freshly chopped parsley for a burst of green and freshness. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan can also add a touch of elegance and flavor. If you want to jazz things up, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top gives a colorful hint of spice.
Side Dishes
Garlic knots are the perfect companion for almost any Italian meal. Serve them alongside a rich marinara sauce or a zesty arrabbiata for dipping, which adds a lovely contrast to the buttery knots. They also pair beautifully with a fresh green salad, pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, or a hearty bowl of soup for the ultimate cozy dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family gathering, arrange your garlic knots in a circular wreath shape on a serving platter for a festive look. You can also serve each knot stuffed with a little mozzarella before tying for a gooey surprise. Mini skewers with several knots and a dipping cup of sauce make for adorable, easy-to-eat finger food perfect for socializing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover garlic knots (though it’s hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps their texture from becoming too hard or stale before you can enjoy them again.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the baked garlic knots in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to two months. This method helps retain their freshness so you can enjoy homemade garlic knots anytime you want.
Reheating
To reheat, the oven is your best friend. Warm the knots at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them chewy and rubbery instead of soft and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully and saves time without compromising flavor or texture. Just make sure it’s thawed and at room temperature before shaping.
Is there a way to make these knots vegan?
You can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and omitting the Parmesan or using a vegan cheese alternative. The garlic butter sauce will still be full of flavor.
Can I add cheese inside the knots?
Yes! Stuffing each strip with a small piece of mozzarella before knotting creates cheesy, melty pockets that are incredibly indulgent and crowd-pleasing.
How long do the garlic knots keep fresh?
They taste best fresh out of the oven but can stay fresh for up to two days at room temperature in an airtight container. Reheat them for best texture before serving.
What dipping sauces pair well with garlic knots?
Classic marinara is a favorite, but you can also try pesto, ranch, or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a fun twist and extra flavor dimension.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the simplicity and comfort found in the Garlic Knots with Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe. Whether you’re feeding a family, impressing friends, or just indulging yourself, this recipe brings that perfect blend of homey warmth and savory flavor. Give these garlic knots a try, and I promise they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen and heart.
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Garlic Knots with Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 garlic knots
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These classic Garlic Knots with Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce are a delicious Italian-American appetizer made from soft pizza dough, tied into knots, and baked until golden. Brushed with a fragrant garlic butter mixture and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, they’re perfect for serving warm as a tasty starter or snack.
Ingredients
Garlic Knots
- 1 pound pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough to about a 1/2-inch thick rectangle. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 12 even strips.
- Form the knots: Take each strip and tie it into a knot, carefully pinching the ends to secure. Arrange the knots evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the knots: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the knots are puffed up and golden brown.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: While the knots bake, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic. Remove from heat and stir in salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Brush knots with sauce: When the knots come out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the warm garlic butter sauce to infuse them with flavor.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the coated knots while still warm, allowing it to lightly melt onto the surface.
- Serve: Serve the garlic knots warm as a perfect appetizer. Optionally, pair them with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for optimal softness and flavor.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes to regain crispness.
- Marinara sauce makes an excellent dip to complement these garlic knots.
