Homemade Garlic Knots

If you’re looking for a delightful way to elevate your meal, these Homemade Garlic Knots are just what you need! Imagine pulling a tray of warm, fluffy knots out of the oven, each one infused with the rich aroma of garlic. This recipe is a family favorite in my household, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. They make a fantastic side dish for pasta or can be enjoyed on their own with a dip of marinara sauce—trust me, you won’t be able to resist!

These knots are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself whipping them up regularly. Whether you’re prepping for a casual dinner or a festive occasion, these Homemade Garlic Knots will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: You can whip up these knots in under an hour, making them perfect for those nights when time is tight.
• Family-friendly: Kids love helping twist the dough into knots—it’s fun and interactive!
• Versatile: These knots pair beautifully with almost any dish and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of fresh garlic and parsley brings a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Homemade Garlic Knots, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Gather these items from your pantry and enjoy the process of creating something delicious!

Ingredients:
– 3 and 3/4 cups bread flour
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
– 1 envelope active dry yeast
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 and 1/2 cups warm water, 110 – 115 degrees (F)
– 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
– 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
– 6 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt or garlic powder
– 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some spice: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a little kick that balances the garlic.
• Change the herbs: Swap fresh parsley with basil or oregano for different flavor profiles.
• Cheesy twist: Mix in some shredded mozzarella with the garlic butter before serving for an extra cheesy treat!
• Herbed butter option: Instead of just garlic butter, mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.

How to Make Homemade Garlic Knots

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing your bread flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt in a large bowl. It’s important to combine these dry ingredients well to ensure even rising. Slowly add in warm water while stirring until everything comes together into a sticky dough. The warmth of the water activates the yeast—this is what will help your knots rise beautifully!

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading helps develop gluten, which gives your garlic knots that lovely chewy texture we all crave. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for achieving that perfect bite!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about an hour. This resting time allows the flavors to develop while also making the dough easier to handle later.

Step 4: Shape the Knots

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Divide it into equal pieces (about 16) and roll each piece into long ropes. Tie each rope into a knot shape! This step is where you can really have fun; don’t worry if they aren’t perfect—each knot will have its own character.

Step 5: Bake Your Knots

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your shaped knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Before baking, brush them generously with melted unsalted butter mixed with minced garlic and parsley—it adds amazing flavor! Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked, remove your garlic knots from the oven and sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese while they’re still warm. Serve them hot alongside marinara sauce for dipping. You’ll want to make sure you have plenty on hand because they are sure to disappear quickly! Enjoy every buttery bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Garlic Knots

Making homemade garlic knots is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your baking game even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil can significantly enhance the flavor of your garlic knots, making them taste vibrant and delicious.
• Knead the dough well: Proper kneading helps develop gluten, giving your knots a nice chewy texture. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place: Yeast loves warmth! Allowing your dough to rise in a cozy spot will ensure it doubles in size and becomes light and airy.
• Don’t skip the garlic butter: Brushing melted garlic butter on the knots right after baking adds an irresistible layer of flavor that your guests will rave about.
• Experiment with toppings: While parmesan is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try other toppings like crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs for added zing.

How to Serve Homemade Garlic Knots

Presenting your homemade garlic knots beautifully can make all the difference at your dinner table. Here are some ideas to make them shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of minced fresh parsley not only adds color but also offers a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the knots.
• Extra parmesan cheese: A light dusting of finely grated parmesan on top right before serving can make them look extra tempting.

Side Dishes

• Marinara sauce: This classic dipping sauce pairs perfectly with garlic knots, adding a tangy contrast that complements the buttery goodness.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and a sprinkle of parmesan makes for a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the knots.
• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes provide a healthy option that enhances your meal’s visual appeal.
• Pasta primavera: A light pasta dish with seasonal vegetables adds a delightful Italian flair to your meal, making it feel more complete.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around your delicious homemade garlic knots!

Make Ahead and Storage

These homemade garlic knots are not only a delicious treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the garlic knots to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the garlic knots are completely cooled.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen garlic knots in the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the knots on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• If reheating refrigerated knots, simply heat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about homemade garlic knots!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour for homemade garlic knots?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour for bread flour, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. You might need to add a bit more water due to the higher absorbency of whole wheat flour.

How do I make homemade garlic knots without using animal-derived ingredients?

This recipe is already free from animal-derived ingredients! Simply follow the instructions using unsalted butter or substitute it with olive oil if you prefer. Enjoy your homemade garlic knots worry-free!

What can I dip my homemade garlic knots into?

Homemade garlic knots pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. You can also try serving them with pesto or a creamy ranch dressing for an added twist!

How can I enhance the flavor of my homemade garlic knots?

To amp up the flavor, consider adding herbs like oregano or basil to your dough mixture. You can also sprinkle additional spices on top before baking!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these homemade garlic knots! They are such a delightful addition to any meal—perfectly soft, garlicky, and just begging to be dipped. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or as part of your meal prep, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!