Garlic Parmesan Knots are fluffy little bites of joy! Made with soft dough, garlic, and sprinkled with delicious Parmesan cheese, these knots are perfect for dipping and sharing.
Honestly, these bites disappear fast at my house! I love serving them warm with marinara sauce on the side. It’s like a mini party for your taste buds! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for making the knots rise. If you have instant yeast, you can use it instead, but skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.
All-Purpose Flour: While all-purpose works great, you can also use bread flour for an even chewier texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil offers great flavor, but any cooking oil works. You can also use melted butter for a richer taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for better control over saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter alternative instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and texture. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese can substitute.
How Can You Make Sure Your Knots Are Soft and Fluffy?
To achieve soft, fluffy knots, knead the dough well. You want to develop gluten, which gives bread its chewy texture. When kneading, look for a smooth, elastic dough that’s not too sticky.
- Ensure your water is warm (not hot), as too high a temperature can kill the yeast.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles in size. A warm, draft-free place is perfect—like your oven turned off, or by a warm window.
- Don’t skip the resting time after shaping the knots; this helps them puff up before baking.
Following these tips will help create delicious, soft knots that are sure to impress!
Garlic Parmesan Knots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 package (about 2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, plus 1 to 1.5 hours for the dough to rise. You’ll spend about 15 minutes baking the knots, making the total time around 2 hours. But trust me, the delicious aroma and taste are worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
First, get a small bowl and mix the warm water with the yeast and sugar. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it looks foamy on top. This means the yeast is alive and ready to rock!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Next, add the foamy yeast mixture and the olive oil. Stir everything together until you get a shaggy dough. It’s okay if it looks a bit messy at this stage.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use that instead—it makes it easier!
4. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Now find a warm spot for it to rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. Maybe take a quick break while you wait!
5. Shape the Knots:
Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough to release the air, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-inch rope, then tie it into a knot. Place each knot on a lined baking sheet.
6. Let Them Rest:
Cover your freshly shaped knots with a towel and let them rest for 15-20 minutes. This helps them puff up a bit more before baking!
7. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the knots are resting, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and half of the parsley in a small bowl. This garlic butter is going to add amazing flavor!
8. Bake the Knots:
After the knots have rested, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Bake them in the oven for 15-18 minutes, until they’re golden brown and look oh-so-delicious!
9. Finish and Serve:
When they come out of the oven, brush them again with any remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and the rest of the parsley over the hot knots. Serve warm, and don’t forget the marinara sauce or ranch for dipping!
Enjoy these soft and scrumptious Garlic Parmesan Knots with family and friends. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Dough Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough or bread dough. Just roll it out and cut it into the desired pieces before shaping the knots.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option. Each will give a unique flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also put them in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their softness.
Can I Add Herbs or Other Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like oregano, basil, or even a bit of garlic powder into the dough for extra flavor. Chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives also make fantastic additions!