As I pulled my freshly baked Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots from the oven, the intoxicating aroma of garlic and melted mozzarella wrapped around my kitchen like a warm hug. These golden beauties are not just easy to make; they offer a delightful win over takeout, making them a perfect addition to your homemade food repertoire. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in. In under 15 minutes, you’ll have tender, cheesy knots that pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. Curious how to turn basic pizza dough into these heavenly bites? Let’s dive in!
What makes Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots irresistible?
Deliciously Cheesy: Each knot is filled with gooey mozzarella that melts in your mouth, providing a decadent taste with every bite.
Quick and Easy: These knots come together in under 15 minutes, making them a fantastic choice when time is tight.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, game days, or family dinners, everyone will enjoy pulling apart these cheesy delights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh parsley creates a fragrant experience that elevates these knots to the next level.
Endless Versatility: Pair them with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip for a customized flavor experience, perfect for any occasion.
If you love quick, homemade comfort food, you might also enjoy my Savory Garlic Butter Pasta for another quick win at the dinner table!
Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pizza dough – This is the base for your knots; feel free to use store-bought or homemade.
For the Cheese Filling
• Mozzarella cheese – Choose fresh mozzarella for a melty and gooey interior that enhances your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots.
For the Garlic Butter Mixture
• Melted butter – This adds richness and helps the garlic flavors shine through in every bite.
• Garlic – Minced garlic is essential for that aromatic punch, bringing the dish to life.
• Chopped parsley – Fresh parsley brightens the flavor and adds a touch of color to your knots.
• Salt – A pinch of salt enhances all the ingredients, elevating the overall taste.
Let’s get you ready to create these delightful cheese-filled bites!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots bake evenly and come off the pan easily. Set aside the prepared sheet while you work on dividing the pizza dough.
Step 2: Divide the Dough
Take your package of pizza dough and gently knead it for a few moments on a floured surface. Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces, each about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each piece into a small rectangle or circle, creating a perfect base for your delicious cheese filling.
Step 3: Fill the Dough
Place about 1 tablespoon of gooey mozzarella cheese in the center of each flattened dough piece. Carefully fold over the edges, sealing them tightly to keep the cheese from escaping. Then, tie the filled dough into a knot, ensuring a secure shape that will hold all the cheesy goodness inside.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Arrange the tied knots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each to allow for expansion during baking. This spacing will help your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots achieve that beautiful golden-brown color without sticking together.
Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This fragrant garlic butter mixture is key to adding a rich layer of flavor to your cheese-filled knots, so don’t skip this step!
Step 6: Brush the Knots
Using a pastry brush, generously apply the garlic butter mixture over each knot, ensuring that every nook and cranny gets coated. This will infuse the knots with delightful garlic flavor as they bake, giving them a golden sheen that makes them irresistible.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots for 12-15 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark, as an inviting aroma will fill your kitchen when they're just about ready.
Step 8: Final Touch and Serve
Once baked, remove the knots from the oven and brush them with any remaining garlic butter mixture for an extra burst of flavor. Serve your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots warm with marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear at your dinner table!
How to Store and Freeze Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots
Room Temperature: Allow the Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots to cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge: Store leftover knots in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness for a delightful snack.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the knots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat from frozen or refrigerated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness even on the busiest days! You can prepare the knots and fill them with mozzarella cheese up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in the fridge covered with plastic wrap to maintain their moisture. To avoid sogginess, wait to brush them with the garlic butter mixture until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake the knots directly from the fridge (no need to thaw), cooking them for the same 12-15 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly cheesy. With these make-ahead options, weeknight dinners become a breeze!
Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Customization
Dive into the delicious world of Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots where you can tweak the ingredients to fit your taste buds' desires!
- Dairy-Free: Swap mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives for a creamy, plant-based delight.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried Italian herbs or fresh basil with the garlic butter for an extra flavor boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling for a fiery twist.
- Stuffed with Spinach: Incorporate cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms with the cheese for a hearty variation.
- Pizza-Style: Fill the knots with pepperoni or sausage for a delightful twist on a pizza in a knot form.
- Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat pizza dough for a healthier, fiber-packed option that still delivers on taste.
- Cheesy Blend: Experiment with a blend of different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique gooey experience.
Each of these variations takes your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots to new heights, ensuring everyone can savor their own perfect bite. And if you're in the mood for something similar, try pairing alongside my Savory Garlic Butter Pasta for a truly comforting meal!
Expert Tips for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots
Perfectly Sealed: Ensure you pinch the edges of the dough tightly so that the mozzarella doesn't leak out while baking, keeping your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots intact.
Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and parsley. Dried herbs can alter the taste and aroma of the knots.
Don’t Skip the Brush: Brushing each knot with the garlic butter mixture before and after baking adds a rich layer of flavor and enhances the golden color.
Monitor the Bake: Keep an eye on the knots during the last few minutes of baking; ovens vary, and you want them golden brown without burning.
Serve Warm: Enjoy these cheesy delights right from the oven for the best texture and flavor, enhancing the overall experience of your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots.
What to Serve with Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots
Elevate your meal with tempting sides that harmonize beautifully with these cheesy, buttery knots.
- Marinara Sauce: Perfect for dipping, this classic tomato sauce adds a vibrant, tangy contrast to the richness of the knots.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these fries mirror the garlic flavor while adding delightful crunch.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the knots’ richness, balancing your meal perfectly.
- Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted vegetables offer a smoky, healthy addition, complementing the knots' cheesiness with varied textures.
- Creamy Spinach Dip: This rich dip pairs beautifully with the garlic knots, giving a smooth, cheesy experience that’s utterly decadent.
- Ice-Cold Lemonade: A refreshing drink that brightens the palate, its tartness is ideal against the buttery, garlic flavor of the knots.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this warm, gooey cake adds a delightful contrast, making the end of your meal utterly indulgent.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites add an earthiness to your table and ooze with melted cheese that echoes the knots’ interior.
- Prosecco: A bubbly drink that brings a joyful effervescence, its lightness pairs well with the rich flavors of the Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots.
Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pizza dough for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots?
Absolutely! When selecting pizza dough, freshness matters. If using store-bought, check for dates, ensuring it’s not close to expiration. If possible, opt for dough from a local pizzeria or make your own for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots?
You can store your Garlic Knots at room temperature for about 2 days in an airtight container. If you want to extend their shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them in the oven to bring back their delightful crispiness!
Can I freeze Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots?
Very! To freeze them, first let the baked knots cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. After that, move them to a freezer bag and they’ll last up to 3 months! Just thaw in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them.
What should I do if the cheese leaks out while baking?
No worries! If the cheese does leak during baking, it can be due to not sealing the knots tightly enough. For next time, ensure you pinch the edges well and give the knots a little twist to secure that cheesy goodness inside.
Are Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! However, these knots contain gluten and dairy. If you're making these for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free pizza dough and dairy-free cheese alternatives, which can work beautifully as substitutes.
How can I make these knots healthier?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can use whole wheat pizza dough or a cauliflower crust. Plus, drizzle just a bit less garlic butter, or experiment with olive oil instead, for a healthier twist on these Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots.
Delicious Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots You’ll Crave Daily
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 package Pizza dough store-bought or homemade
For the Cheese Filling
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese fresh for best results
For the Garlic Butter Mixture
- 4 tablespoons Melted butter
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Chopped parsley fresh
- 1 teaspoon Salt to taste
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Gently knead pizza dough on a floured surface and cut into 12 equal pieces, flattening each one.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of mozzarella cheese in the center of each flattened dough piece and seal tightly.
- Tie the filled dough into knots and arrange on the prepared baking sheet with space between each.
- Combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt in a small bowl.
- Brush each knot with the garlic butter mixture, coating thoroughly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until puffy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and brush with remaining garlic butter before serving warm with marinara sauce.
