If you’re craving a snack that’s ooey-gooey and full of flavor, you’ve found it! Cheesy Herbed Garlic Knots are the ultimate tasty treat, perfect for parties or cozy nights in. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these warm, buttery knots that are bursting with cheesy goodness and herbs. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive in and make these irresistible bites!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Herbs and Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Additional Toppings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Cheesy herbed garlic knots start with simple and fresh ingredients. First, I use 1 pound of refrigerated pizza dough. This saves time and makes cooking easier. Next, I grab 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. This cheese melts beautifully and adds the gooey texture we love. Then, I measure out 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted. This butter brings richness and flavor to our garlic knots.
For the herbs and seasonings, I pick 3 cloves of minced garlic, which give a nice kick. I also add 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, or their dried versions if I’m in a pinch. Lastly, I sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for that classic taste.
Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste. If you want extra flavor, consider grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a lovely finishing touch to your knots. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make the most delicious cheesy herbed garlic knots!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps create a nice texture for your knots.
Shaping the Knots
- Cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide.
- Take each strip and stretch it a bit. Tie it into a knot. Repeat this with all strips and place the knots on the prepared baking sheet. They should look cute and ready to bake!
Creating the Garlic Herb Butter
- In a bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mix gives the knots amazing flavor.
- Brush this garlic herb butter mixture generously over the knots. Don’t forget to save some for later!
Baking the Knots
- Bake the knots in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. They should turn golden brown.
- Once they are out of the oven, brush the knots with any leftover garlic herb butter. If you want, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for extra cheesiness. These knots will be hard to resist!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture
To make great cheesy herbed garlic knots, the dough needs the right thickness. Roll the pizza dough to about 1/2 inch thick. This gives you a soft, chewy knot. If the dough is too thin, it may not hold together.
Fill each knot with mozzarella cheese, but be careful not to overfill. Too much cheese can make the knots burst during baking. A little goes a long way in keeping them intact and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
These knots taste best when warm. Serve them with a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. The rich tomato sauce adds a nice zing. For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Timing
When baking, check the knots for doneness after 15 minutes. They should be golden brown and smell amazing. If they need more time, check every few minutes.
Let the knots cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set a bit. If you serve them too hot, the cheese might ooze out. Enjoy serving these tasty bites at home or at parties!
Variations
Cheese Options
You can change the cheese in these knots. Try using cheddar for a sharp flavor. Gouda adds a smoky taste. For a rich twist, add cream cheese inside the knots. It makes them creamy and delicious.
Herb Alternatives
Herbs can change the taste of your knots. You can use thyme for a fresh flavor. Oregano brings a warm, earthy note. Rosemary adds a strong scent. You can also try pre-mixed Italian seasoning for ease. This blend saves time and adds great flavor.
Additional Add-ins
Want more flavor? Add sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet touch. Chopped olives can add a salty kick. For a spicy bite, mix in red pepper flakes. These add-ins make your knots unique and tasty.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cheesy herbed garlic knots fresh, cool them first. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep them from drying out. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This helps maintain their soft texture.
Reheating Instructions
When it comes to reheating, you have two good options: the microwave or the oven. The microwave is quick but can make the knots chewy. For better results, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the knots on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the knots before or after baking. If freezing before baking, shape the knots and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for a few hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. To freeze after baking, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you want to eat the frozen knots, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough for these knots. Homemade dough offers a fresh taste and a personal touch. If you make your dough, keep these tips in mind:
- Use your favorite pizza dough recipe.
- Ensure the dough rises well for a fluffy texture.
- Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick, just like store-bought dough.
How do I make these knots gluten-free?
To make these knots gluten-free, choose a good gluten-free pizza dough. Many brands make gluten-free dough that works well. You can also make your own using gluten-free flour. Here are some options:
- Look for gluten-free pizza dough at your local store.
- Use a mix of almond flour and tapioca flour for homemade dough.
- Check the dough for good texture to ensure it bakes well.
What can I serve with cheesy herbed garlic knots?
These cheesy herbed garlic knots pair well with many dishes. Here are some tasty options:
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy alongside pasta dishes for a hearty feast.
- Add them to a cheese board for fun snacks.
These cheesy herbed garlic knots are a treat. We explored the ingredients, from dough to toppings. You learned how to make, shape, and bake these tasty snacks. Plus, I shared tips for perfecting texture and suggested serving ideas.
Remember, you can customize flavors with different cheeses and herbs. Store leftovers well or freeze for later. With these easy steps, enjoy warm knots anytime. Now, get cooking and treat yourself to this delicious delight!
