There are few foods more universally loved than pizza, and when you take pizza dough and infuse it with savory garlic, aromatic herbs, and the irresistible flavor of Parmesan cheese, you create a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly tasty. Enter Garlic Parmesan Pizza Knots—a fun, bite-sized twist on traditional pizza that is as easy to make as it is addictive.
These little garlic knots are the ultimate appetizer, snack, or side dish, and they pair beautifully with a variety of main courses, from pasta dishes to grilled meats. The pizza dough, brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with fragrant garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and dried herbs, creates a soft, fluffy bite with a burst of flavor in every piece. The best part? They come together in just a few simple steps, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends and family.
The irresistible blend of garlic, Parmesan, and pizza dough is a timeless combination that everyone can enjoy, making this dish a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a snack on their own, Garlic Parmesan Pizza Knots are sure to satisfy cravings and leave everyone asking for more.
Full Recipe:
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
Steps to Make It:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the pizza knots from sticking during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Dough
If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, make sure it’s at room temperature. This will make it easier to work with. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape, roughly 12×8 inches in size. Once it’s rolled out, cut the dough into 12 even strips—each about 1 inch wide.
Step 3: Shape the Pizza Knots
Take each strip of dough and tie it into a knot, ensuring that the ends are tucked underneath the knot to keep the shape intact. Repeat the process for all the strips of dough, creating 12 garlic Parmesan pizza knots in total.
Step 4: Brush with Garlic Parmesan Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried parsley flakes, salt, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
Using a pastry brush, generously brush the garlic Parmesan butter mixture over each pizza knot. Make sure to coat them thoroughly for maximum flavor. The butter will not only add flavor but also help the knots become golden and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza Knots
Place the prepared pizza knots onto the lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 6: Serve with Marinara Sauce
Once the pizza knots are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping. The rich, tangy sauce perfectly complements the savory, cheesy, and garlicky flavors of the pizza knots.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
12-15 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
12 pizza knots (serves 4-6)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 2 Pizza Knots):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
Why This Recipe is Timeless:
The allure of Garlic Parmesan Pizza Knots lies in the combination of familiar flavors and textures that have stood the test of time. Pizza dough, which has long been a beloved comfort food, provides a perfect base for savory ingredients like garlic and Parmesan cheese. Garlic has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, prized not only for its bold flavor but also for its numerous health benefits. Parmesan cheese, with its nutty and tangy notes, is equally timeless, often used to elevate simple dishes into something extraordinary.
The versatility of pizza knots also makes this dish timeless. They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, making them suitable for almost any occasion—from casual family dinners to holiday spreads. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to share, and the warm marinara sauce for dipping adds a layer of comfort and indulgence. Whether enjoyed at a game night with friends, a cozy dinner with family, or a special gathering, Garlic Parmesan Pizza Knots fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Moreover, their ease of preparation makes them a go-to recipe for busy cooks who want a delicious, homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple, accessible, and inexpensive, yet the end result is nothing short of impressive. This is the beauty of timeless recipes—they rely on the magic of classic ingredients and the art of creating something extraordinary with the simplest tools.
The universal appeal of these pizza knots—garlicky, cheesy, and buttery—ensures that they will continue to be a favorite for generations to come. Their adaptability and flavor profile mean that they can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to adults, making them a family-friendly dish that will never go out of style.
FAQs:
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe and helps save time. Just make sure it’s at room temperature for easy handling.
Can I freeze these pizza knots?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza knots before baking them. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen knots directly on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding an extra few minutes if necessary.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the dough and shape the knots ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 24 hours. Brush with the garlic Parmesan butter and bake when ready to serve.
What can I dip these pizza knots in?
While marinara sauce is the classic choice for dipping, these pizza knots also pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a little kick.
Can I make these without Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella or a mix of your favorites. However, Parmesan adds a distinctive, sharp flavor that complements the garlic and herbs well.
Tips for Making the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Pizza Knots:
- Room Temperature Dough: Make sure the pizza dough is at room temperature. This will make it easier to roll and shape into knots. Cold dough can be more challenging to work with.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often lacks the richness and depth of flavor that freshly grated cheese offers.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic Butter: The garlic butter mixture is what gives the knots their signature flavor. Be generous when brushing it over the dough, and don’t be afraid to add extra garlic powder if you love garlic.
- Shape Uniform Knots: For even cooking, try to make all the pizza knots roughly the same size. This ensures they bake at the same rate, preventing some from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
- Experiment with Herbs: While oregano and parsley are traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, store the pizza knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They will remain soft and flavorful.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer to refrigerate them, place the knots in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: These pizza knots freeze well. After baking and cooling, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw them and reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Conclusion:
Garlic Parmesan Pizza Knots are the epitome of comfort food—simple, delicious, and always satisfying. This recipe combines the familiar joy of pizza dough with the irresistible flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and butter, creating a snack or appetizer that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, enjoying a movie night, or looking for an easy yet impressive appetizer, these pizza knots will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly timeless is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create something that feels indulgent and special. The crispy, golden crust combined with the savory, garlicky filling creates a flavor profile that never gets old, while the ability to serve these knots with different dipping sauces ensures that they can adapt to various tastes and occasions.
So next time you’re craving something warm, comforting, and delicious, give these Garlic Parmesan Pizza Knots a try. They’re sure to become a favorite, just as timeless recipes have always been.