Easy Homemade Garlic Knots

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There’s something so satisfying about tearing into a warm, pillowy garlic knot fresh out of the oven. The golden-brown crust, that irresistible garlicky aroma, and the soft, fluffy center—it’s comfort food at its finest. I’ve made these Easy Homemade Garlic Knots more times than I can count, and every time, they disappear faster than I can bake them.

What I love most about this recipe is how deceptively simple it is. Whether you’re making a cozy pasta dinner, serving up game day snacks, or just craving something freshly baked, these knots fit right in. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, brushed with garlicky butter and sprinkled with parsley and parmesan. Once you make them at home, the takeout version just won’t cut it anymore.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe

• Super soft and fluffy inside, perfectly golden outside
• Packed with buttery garlic flavor
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• No fancy equipment needed
• Bakes in just 15 minutes

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What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Garlic Knots?

I always reach for pizza dough—either homemade or store-bought. It’s easy to work with, gives a great chew, and rises just right. If you’re using store-bought, look for fresh dough from the refrigerated section instead of the canned variety for best results.

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Options for Substitutions

• Butter: Swap with olive oil for a dairy-free version
• Parmesan: Use nutritional yeast for a vegan option
• Parsley: Fresh basil or oregano adds a different herbaceous twist
• Garlic: Garlic powder works if fresh isn’t available, though fresh always has better flavor
• Flour: If making dough from scratch, you can use bread flour for chewier texture or all-purpose for a softer result

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Ingredients for This Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe

• Pizza Dough – The heart of the knots; soft, pliable, and perfect for shaping into that classic twist.
• Unsalted Butter – Brushed on top for a golden finish and rich flavor.
• Fresh Garlic – The essential ingredient; sautéed in butter to infuse the knots with bold garlicky goodness.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top for a savory, umami-rich finish.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors, both in the dough and the garlic butter.
• Olive Oil – Optional for coating the dough if you’re prepping ahead or want a lighter touch.

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Step 1: Prepare the Dough

If you’re using homemade dough, make sure it has risen and is at room temperature. For store-bought dough, let it sit out of the fridge for at least 30 minutes so it’s easier to work with. Lightly flour your surface and divide the dough into equal portions, about the size of a golf ball.

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Step 2: Shape the Knots

Roll each dough ball into a rope about 6–8 inches long. Gently tie each rope into a knot—don’t worry about perfection. Tuck the ends underneath and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space in between.

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Step 3: Let Them Rise Again

Cover the shaped knots with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20–30 minutes. This gives them that soft, fluffy interior when baked.

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Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the knots for 12–15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and sound slightly hollow when tapped.

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Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter

While the knots are baking, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned (about 1 minute). Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley and a pinch of salt.

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Step 6: Brush and Sprinkle

As soon as the knots come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter. Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese while they’re still hot so it melts slightly into the top.

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Step 7: Serve Warm

These are best served warm right out of the oven. You can pair them with marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy them plain as a side or snack.

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How Long to Prepare the Easy Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe

Making these garlic knots is a straightforward process, and the overall time investment is well worth it for the flavor payoff.

Preparation Time: If you’re starting with ready-made dough, prep takes about 15–20 minutes. This includes dividing and shaping the dough into knots, and getting your garlic butter mixture ready. If making dough from scratch, add another 1.5 to 2 hours for rising and mixing.

Rising and Baking Time: Once shaped, the knots need about 30 minutes of second rise. Baking them takes another 12–15 minutes. So from start to finish (using pre-made dough), you’re looking at around 45–60 minutes total.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Knots

• Room Temperature Dough: Always let your dough sit out before shaping—it’s easier to handle and gives better results.
• Use Fresh Garlic: The difference in flavor is noticeable; fresh garlic is much bolder and aromatic.
• Brush While Hot: Applying the garlic butter right after baking helps the flavors absorb into the bread.
• Don’t Overbake: Pull them once they turn golden brown to keep them soft inside.
• Add Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, a little mozzarella stuffed inside the knots takes them to another level.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using Cold Dough: It won’t stretch or knot properly and may bake unevenly.
• Skipping the Second Rise: This step is crucial for soft, fluffy interiors.
• Browning Garlic in Butter: Cook just until fragrant; burned garlic tastes bitter.
• Under-seasoning: Salt is essential—don’t skip it in the garlic butter.
• Crowding the Pan: Give each knot space to rise and bake evenly.

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What to Serve With Garlic Knots?

1. Marinara Sauce

The classic combo. Warm marinara makes the perfect dipping sauce and enhances the garlic flavor.

2. Creamy Alfredo Pasta

A rich, velvety pasta dish pairs wonderfully with the garlicky, cheesy bread.

3. Tomato Basil Soup

A warm, comforting bowl of soup and fresh garlic knots are a match made for chilly evenings.

4. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Balance the richness with crisp romaine, grilled chicken, and creamy Caesar dressing.

5. Baked Ziti or Lasagna

Serve the knots as a side to any baked pasta dish—they’re perfect for soaking up sauces.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to revive their texture.

Refrigerator: If you plan to store them longer, pop them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat as above.

Freezer: Garlic knots freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, wrap in foil or plastic, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 2 months. To serve, thaw and reheat at 350°F until warm.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Knot, Approximate)

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the garlic knots are done baking?

They should be golden brown on top and sound slightly hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Can I make garlic knots ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the knots and refrigerate them overnight before baking. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Garlic powder can be used as a substitute—about 1/2 teaspoon in the butter mix.

Are garlic knots vegan?

They can be! Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Can I reheat them in the microwave?

You can, but the texture may become chewy. For best results, use an oven or air fryer.

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Conclusion

Easy Homemade Garlic Knots are one of those recipes that feel indulgent yet are simple to pull off any day of the week. Whether you’re hosting guests or just adding something special to a weeknight dinner, these knots always impress. Fluffy, buttery, garlicky, and endlessly comforting—they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen just like they are in mine.

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