Easy Delicious Homemade Garlic Knots
If there is one thing that disappears from my table before anything else, it is a basket of warm garlic knots. In particular, these easy homemade garlic knots start with one pound of pizza dough, so there is no yeast to proof and no waiting around. I love setting them next to my easy sausage rigatoni or my spinach and ricotta stuffed shells on pasta night.
With this in mind, the method is simple: roll, cut, tie, bake, and brush with garlic butter. What is more, they are not only budget friendly but also impressive enough for company. I serve them with my white truffle Cajun shrimp alfredo and my baked chicken gnocchi all the time.
As a result, this is the bread I reach for when I am hosting and want something warm on the table fast. If you would rather buy your bread, I have a guide to where to find fresh bread in Atlanta. Furthermore, if you are planning a full menu, my guide on how to host a holiday dinner party walks you through it.
What Are Garlic Knots?
Garlic knots are strips of pizza dough tied into small knots, baked until golden, and brushed with melted butter, garlic, and herbs. They started in pizzerias as a way to use leftover dough, and they are finished with Parmesan and a pinch of salt. In other words, they are garlic bread in a bite-size, pull-apart form.
Ingredients (With Purpose & Flavor Notes)
- Pizza dough (1 pound): The base of the recipe. Store-bought or homemade both work, and room temperature dough is easier to roll.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Carries the garlic flavor and gives the knots their shine.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic gives the strongest flavor.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds color and a fresh finish.
- Fresh oregano (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a classic pizzeria note.
- Grated Parmesan (1/4 cup): A salty, nutty topping that sticks to the warm butter.
- Salt: A pinch on top brings everything together.
Everything I Love for This Recipe
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Rimmed Baking Sheet
A sturdy sheet pan bakes the knots evenly.
Parchment Paper
Keeps the knots from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Rolling Pin
For rolling the dough to an even 1/4 inch.
Pizza Cutter
Cuts clean, even strips in seconds.
Small Saucepan
For warming the butter and garlic.
Pastry Brush
Brushes garlic butter into every fold.
Garlic Press
Makes quick work of the garlic.
Microplane Grater
For freshly grated Parmesan.
Wooden Cutting Board
A roomy surface for rolling and cutting.
Bread Basket
For serving the knots warm at the table.
Linen Napkins
Line the basket and keep the knots warm.
Small Dipping Bowls
For marinara or alfredo on the side.
How To Make Homemade Garlic Knots
Step 1: Heat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut it into strips about 1 inch wide and 6 to 8 inches long.
Step 3: Tie the Knots
Tie each strip into a loose knot and tuck the ends under. Place the knots on the baking sheet with a little space between them.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the knots are golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter
While the knots bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant.
Step 6: Brush and Top
Brush the warm knots with the garlic butter. Sprinkle with parsley, oregano if using, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt. Serve warm.
Homemade Garlic Knots
Ingredients
- 1 lb Pizza Dough store-bought or homemade about 450g
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- Salt to taste
Instructions
**Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
**Prepare the Dough:**
- Dust a clean surface with flour.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into strips, approximately 1 inch wide and 6-8 inches long.
**Form the Knots:**
- Take each strip of dough and tie it into a simple knot, tucking the ends underneath to secure it. You should end up with knots that resemble little bows.
**Bake the Knots:**
- Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each knot.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
**Make the Garlic Butter:**
- While the knots are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.
**Toss the Knots:**
- Once the knots are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring each knot gets a generous coating.
**Sprinkle with Toppings:**
- While the knots are still warm, sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley (if using), and a pinch of salt to taste.
**Serve:**
- Serve your homemade garlic knots warm. They're perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.
Video
KEEP HOSTING
More to make and share — warm bites and shareable appetizers.
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Variations
Cheesy Garlic Knots
Tuck a small cube of mozzarella into each knot before baking.
Spicy Garlic Knots
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
Herb Swap
Use basil or rosemary in place of the oregano.
Everything Knots
Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning after brushing with butter.
When I Love Serving Garlic Knots
Pasta Night
They are a natural match for my creamy lemon salmon piccata pasta.
Soup Night
I love them for dunking into my white sausage tortellini soup.
Game Night
Set out a basket for an elevated game night.
Supper Club
They are an easy starter to pass while everyone settles in.
Holiday Dinners
A warm bread basket rounds out any holiday table.
Weeknight Dinners
Equally important, they turn a simple basil pesto chicken bake into a full meal.
What To Serve With Garlic Knots
Dips
Serve with marinara, alfredo, or bolognese for dipping. They are also great with my creamy spinach dip, my baked goat cheese dip, or a pot of cheese fondue.
Soups and Salads
Pair them with my easy white bean chicken soup, a winter salad, or one of these 8 salads to try this year.
Appetizer Spread
Add them to a table with my tomato basil mozzarella puff pastry and a cheese platter.
Shelf Life & Storage Tips
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked knots in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until heated through.
- Make ahead: Tie the knots, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes. One pound of store-bought dough works well. Let it sit at room temperature for a bit so it rolls easily.
Why did my knots come out tough?
The dough was likely overworked or rolled too thin. Roll to about 1/4 inch and handle it gently.
Can I freeze garlic knots?
Yes. Freeze them for up to 3 months and reheat at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes.
How many does this make?
This recipe makes about 12 knots.
Final Thoughts
All things considered, these homemade garlic knots are one of the easiest ways to make dinner feel special. Without a doubt, a warm basket of garlicky bread brings people to the table. If you make them, tag me so I can see, and keep hosting.
SAVE NOW, MAKE LATER!
