Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots [35 Minutes]
Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are a delightful twist on the classic garlic bread, featuring soft, doughy knots filled with gooey, melted cheese. These savory treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack. The combination of garlic butter and melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone reaching for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots recipe because it combines the comfort of freshly baked bread with the indulgent surprise of melted cheese inside. The garlic butter coating adds a burst of flavor, making these knots the perfect accompaniment to pasta dishes, soups, or even as a stand-alone snack. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Dough: For the best results, use fresh pizza or bread dough.
- Seal the Knots Well: Ensure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking out.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: Generously brush the knots with garlic butter before and after baking for maximum flavor.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake until the knots are golden brown for a perfect texture.
- Serve Warm: These knots are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is still melted and gooey.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Cheese Options: Use mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Dough Alternatives: Use store-bought pizza dough or crescent roll dough for convenience.
- Herb Infusion: Add herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano to the garlic butter for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a spicy twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free dough to accommodate dietary needs.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve these Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots warm, straight from the oven. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, making them a great appetizer. For a complete meal, serve them alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna, or pair them with a hearty soup or salad. A glass of red wine or a cold beer complements the savory flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Store any leftover knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked knots on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Recipe FAQs
-
- Can I make the dough from scratch? Yes, homemade dough will work perfectly and can add a personal touch.
- What if I don’t have fresh garlic? Substitute with garlic powder or granulated garlic in the butter mixture.
- How do I prevent the cheese from leaking? Make sure to seal the dough edges well and use a small amount of cheese to avoid overfilling.
- Can I prepare these in advance? Yes, you can assemble the knots and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Garlic Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the pizza dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a small rectangle. Place a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each piece.
- Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges to seal tightly, forming a knot.
- Place the knots on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each knot.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven and brush with additional garlic butter if desired.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
NOTE
- Make sure to pinch the dough seams tightly to prevent cheese leakage.
- For an extra golden finish, you can brush the knots with egg wash before baking.
- Let the knots rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 187Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 380mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 4g