WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s something irresistible about warm, pillowy garlic knots fresh out of the oven. Golden brown on the outside with a buttery, garlicky coating and soft, chewy dough inside, they’re the kind of bread that disappears within minutes of hitting the table. Whether you’re serving them as a side for pasta night or setting them out as a party appetizer, homemade garlic knots are always a hit.

What makes these garlic knots even more special is the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake. The rich scent of melted butter, freshly chopped garlic, and parsley is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. And when you pull them apart and watch the steam rise, you’ll be glad you made the effort at home instead of opting for takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe

These garlic knots are incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. The dough comes together with simple pantry staples, and there’s something therapeutic about rolling and tying each knot by hand. The result? Bready bites packed with flavor that can stand on their own or perfectly complement saucy dishes.

They’re also freezer-friendly, making them a smart choice for batch cooking. Reheat them in just minutes and enjoy that fresh-baked taste any time.

What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Garlic Knots?

Homemade dough gives you complete control over the flavor and texture of your knots, but store-bought pizza dough is a convenient alternative when time is tight. If using store-bought, aim for a high-quality, unbaked dough for best results. Homemade yeast dough will give your knots that chewy, soft interior with a slightly crisp crust that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients for the Homemade Garlic Knots

The ingredients are straightforward and familiar, but each plays a crucial role in creating that bakery-style result.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewiness essential to garlic knots.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
• Instant yeast: Speeds up the rise and gives the dough a soft, pillowy texture.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds just a hint of sweetness.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the dough.
• Olive oil: Adds richness to the dough and helps create a tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter: For brushing on the baked knots to make them golden and flavorful.
• Garlic cloves: The heart of the recipe, delivering bold, fragrant flavor.
• Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and color to the buttery garlic topping.
• Grated Parmesan (optional): Sprinkled on top for extra savory depth.

How To Make the Homemade Garlic Knots

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes. Stir in olive oil, salt, and flour until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

Step 2: Shape the Knots

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and tie it into a knot. Place knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the knots for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

While the knots bake, melt butter in a saucepan and add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in chopped parsley.

Step 5: Brush and Serve

Brush the hot knots generously with garlic butter. Sprinkle with Parmesan if using, and serve warm.

Storing and Serving Garlic Knots

These garlic knots are best served fresh and warm, right after brushing with garlic butter. They can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

If you want to make them ahead, shape the knots and freeze them before the second rise. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise, then continue with baking.

This recipe yields about 12 knots, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering.

What to Serve With Homemade Garlic Knots?

Classic Marinara Sauce

These knots love to be dipped in a warm, tangy tomato sauce.

Creamy Alfredo Pasta

The rich sauce contrasts beautifully with the garlicky bread.

Italian Wedding Soup

Add a few garlic knots to round out a cozy soup dinner.

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

For a light but satisfying meal, pair your knots with a crisp Caesar.

Baked Ziti or Lasagna

Rich, cheesy pasta bakes are always a win with garlic knots on the side.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Use the knots to soak up every bit of saucy goodness from these hearty veggies.

Charcuterie Boards

Add them as a bread option next to cheeses, olives, and meats.

Tomato Basil Soup

A comfort-food combo that never goes out of style.

Want More Bread Recipes to Try?

If you’re a fan of these buttery garlic knots, don’t miss out on these other comforting bread-inspired favorites:

• Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts for an easy sweet treat.
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs that double as a snack or dinner.
• Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls when you want something sweet and unique.
• Fluffy Cottage Cheese Cloud Bread for a lighter, protein-packed option.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls when dessert is calling your name.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it whenever those carb cravings hit.

Let me know how your batch turned out! Did you go all in with the garlic or keep it subtle? Did you add cheese? Share your twists and tips in the comments below.

Explore more drool-worthy creations on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite recipe to bake up!

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?