These Garlic Parmesan Knots are a delightful snack or side dish made from soft, buttery pizza dough twisted into knots and brushed with a rich garlic butter mixture. Topped with Parmesan cheese and herbs, these knots are perfect for dipping into warm marinara sauce. They make an excellent appetizer or a side for Italian meals, and they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Preparation Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 16 garlic knots
Ingredients:
- 1 pound prepared pizza dough, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm marinara sauce, for dipping
Directions:
- Prepare the baking sheets: Gather all ingredients. Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
- Divide and rest the dough: Divide the prepared pizza dough into 4 equal pieces. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest at room temperature for 1 hour to rise.
- Shape the dough: Working with one piece at a time (keeping the remaining pieces covered), roll the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 6-x 4-inch rectangle. If the dough is too elastic and springs back, let it rest for 15 minutes before continuing. Cut each rectangle into four strips. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.
- Form the knots: Tie each strip into a single knot, making sure there’s no more than a 1-inch overhang. This allows the knots to rise in a compact shape. Place each knot onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Prepare the butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried parsley flakes, and salt. Brush the knots with half of the butter mixture.
- Let rise again: Lightly cover the knots with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes until puffed.
- Bake the knots: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the knots are ready, bake them for 13-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
- Brush with remaining butter mixture: Remove the knots from the oven and brush with the remaining butter mixture.
- Serve: Serve the garlic knots immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna for a delicious side.
- Add to an Italian-themed meal along with a green salad.
- Enjoy with a bowl of cream soup for a comforting meal.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken for a complete, hearty dinner.
Cooking Tips:
- Use room temperature dough: Letting the dough come to room temperature makes it easier to work with.
- Let the dough rest if needed: If the dough is too springy and hard to roll, let it rest for 15 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Brush with butter after baking: Brushing with the butter mixture after baking ensures extra flavor.
- Add extra herbs: Sprinkle extra Italian seasoning or fresh herbs on top for a burst of flavor.
- Use an air fryer: These garlic knots can also be baked in an air fryer for a slightly faster cook time and extra crispiness.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in carbohydrates for energy from the pizza dough.
- Calcium boost from Parmesan cheese.
- Healthy fats from butter and olive oil.
- Herbs and garlic provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Kid-friendly snack option that’s easy to make and enjoy.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
- Can be made vegan by substituting butter with plant-based butter and using dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free version.
- Nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
- Customizable spice level by adjusting the garlic and herbs to your preference.
Nutritional Facts (per garlic knot):
- Calories: 100
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm or in an air fryer for a crispier texture.
- Freeze: Garlic knots can be frozen before baking or after baking for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to make: With prepared pizza dough, these knots come together effortlessly.
- Perfect appetizer or side dish: Great for parties, gatherings, or alongside Italian meals.
- Flavorful and buttery: The combination of butter, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs is irresistible.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste.
- Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike love the soft, chewy texture and buttery flavor.
Conclusion:
These Garlic Parmesan Knots with Marinara Dip are the perfect blend of soft, chewy dough and rich, savory flavor. They’re easy to make with just a few ingredients and are a great addition to any meal. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit at your table. Give them a try and enjoy each buttery, garlicky bite with warm marinara sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. - How do I prevent the knots from sticking to the baking sheet?
Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or using nonstick spray will prevent sticking. - Can I freeze the garlic knots?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. To serve, thaw and reheat until warm. - What other dips can I serve with these garlic knots?
Besides marinara, try serving with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or cheese sauce for variety. - How do I make the knots extra soft?
Covering the knots while they rise ensures they are soft and pillowy after baking.