Garlic knots originated in New York pizzerias in the 1970s as a way to reduce food waste. Pizza shops would take leftover dough scraps, tie them into knots, bake them, and toss them in garlic butter. The result? An instant hit with customers who loved the chewy texture and rich, garlicky flavor.
Since then, garlic knots have become a staple in pizzerias across the United States. They are typically served with marinara sauce for dipping, making them an irresistible combination of buttery, garlicky goodness with a hint of tomato acidity.
Ingredients for Homemade Garlic Knots
While many pizzerias use pizza dough to make garlic knots, you can use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch for the best flavor and texture.
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
For the Garlic Butter Coating:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Garlic Knots
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, skip ahead to step 3.
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a spoon or mix with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
- Let It Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Knots
- Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
- Cut Into Strips: Roll the dough into a 12-inch by 6-inch rectangle and cut it into 12-16 equal strips.
- Tie the Knots: Take each strip and tie it into a simple knot, tucking the ends underneath.
Step 3: Bake the Garlic Knots
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Coating
While the knots are baking, prepare the garlic butter mixture:
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan or microwave, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add Garlic & Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic, salt, garlic powder, and chopped parsley. Let it sit for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
- Brush with Garlic Butter: As soon as the knots come out of the oven, generously brush them with the garlic butter mixture.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan: If desired, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Serve with Marinara: Warm up some marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Garlic Knots
1. Use Fresh Garlic
Fresh minced garlic infuses the butter with a bold, aromatic flavor. If you're in a pinch, garlic powder works too, but fresh is best.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough
Over-kneading can result in tough garlic knots. The dough should be soft and elastic but not overly stiff.
3. Let the Dough Rest for Extra Fluffiness
For even softer knots, let them rest for 10-15 minutes before baking. This allows the gluten to relax, making them fluffier.
4. Add a Hint of Heat
For an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the garlic butter before serving.
5. Make Them Ahead of Time
You can prepare the knots ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.
Garlic Knots Variations to Try
Garlic knots are easy to customize based on your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Cheesy Garlic Knots: Add shredded mozzarella cheese inside each knot before baking.
- Spicy Garlic Knots: Mix in a dash of crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic butter.
- Herb-Infused Garlic Knots: Experiment with fresh rosemary or thyme for a more herbal flavor.
- Everything Bagel Garlic Knots: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the knots before baking.
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Garlic Knots
- Easy to Make: The simple dough and baking process make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or alongside pasta, pizza, or soup.
- Customizable Flavors: Whether you love extra cheese, spice, or herbs, you can tweak the recipe to your liking.
- Deliciously Addictive: The soft, buttery texture with hints of garlic and Parmesan makes these knots irresistible.
Pairing Ideas for Garlic Knots
Garlic knots are a versatile dish that pairs well with many Italian-inspired meals:
- Classic Marinara Sauce: The traditional pairing that balances the richness of the garlic butter.
- Creamy Alfredo Sauce: A decadent alternative for dipping.
- Tomato Basil Soup: Perfect for cozy nights.
- Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or baked ziti.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade garlic knots is a fun and rewarding experience that brings the flavors of an Italian pizzeria right into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish, a party appetizer, or a midnight snack, these buttery, garlicky bites are irresistibly delicious.
Try making them this weekend and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of freshly baked garlic knots!
