If you’ve ever craved something irresistibly warm, cheesy, and bursting with garlicky goodness, you’ve got to try this Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe. These little golden bundles are packed with gooey mozzarella cheese inside soft, pillowy dough, and then drenched in a decadent garlic butter sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re hosting a game night, need a comforting snack, or just want to impress friends and family, this recipe delivers all the cozy flavor magic with surprisingly simple ingredients and steps. It’s one of those dishes that’s pure joy to make and impossible not to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a starring role to make these knots soft, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful. Here’s why you’ll want every item on this list:
- 1 lb pizza dough: The soft and stretchy foundation that creates the perfect base for the knots.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that luscious, gooey center everyone craves.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and allows the garlic and herbs to coat the knots perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the butter with a punch of vibrant, aromatic flavor that defines this dish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens up the richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the buttery and cheesy elements beautifully.
How to Make Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
To get started, preheat your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your knots cook evenly and cleanup is a snap, so you can focus on the deliciousness ahead.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
Take your pizza dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces — this creates the perfect size for each knot. Flatten each piece into a small rectangle or circle, making it easier to fold the cheese inside and secure every bit of that melty center.
Step 3: Fill and Knot
Place about a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese right in the center of each dough piece. Then, fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges really well to seal it tight and prevent any cheesy escape during baking. Form a knot shape for that classic look that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Set your cheese-filled garlic knots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one so they have room to puff up and turn beautifully golden without sticking together.
Step 5: Make Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. This luscious garlic butter mixture will coat each knot, soaking into the dough and infusing incredible flavor from the first bite to the last.
Step 6: Brush and Bake
Generously brush the garlic butter over every knot—you want them dripping with flavor before they even go in the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the knots are golden brown on top and the mozzarella inside is melted to perfection.
Step 7: Add a Finishing Brush
For an extra indulgent garlic punch, brush the knots again with more garlic butter immediately after they come out of the oven. This ensures an irresistible shine and layers of flavor that make these knots truly unforgettable.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Serve your cheese-filled garlic knots warm, ideally with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of melty cheese, aromatic garlic, and tangy sauce creates a flavor harmony you’ll want to revisit again and again.
How to Serve Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley or even some grated Parmesan on top of your garlic knots just before serving. This adds a fresh pop of color and a sharp, savory touch that makes every bite even more delightful.
Side Dishes
These cheese-filled garlic knots pair wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy chicken, and of course with classic Italian dishes like pasta or a fresh green salad. They also shine on their own as a satisfying snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your knots in a circular pattern on a large platter with small bowls of dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or pesto around the edges. You can also stuff them with different cheeses or add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy twist that your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store your cheese-filled garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh and soft without drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, place the unbaked knots on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can bake fresh knots anytime by popping them straight into the oven without thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 8 minutes to revive that fresh-baked taste and get the cheese melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough tough.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully and saves time while still delivering fantastic texture and flavor for your garlic knots.
What cheese works best inside the knots?
Mozzarella is the go-to because of its excellent melting properties and mild flavor, but you can experiment with provolone or a blend for a different twist.
How do I make sure the knots don’t burst during baking?
Pinch the dough edges tightly all around and avoid overfilling with cheese. This keeps the knots sealed so cheese stays inside as it melts.
Can I make these garlic knots dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free cheese to make a delicious dairy-free version that still captures all the garlicky goodness.
Are these garlic knots good for parties?
They’re perfect for parties! Easy to hold, shareable, and everyone loves that gooey cheese center paired with buttery garlic flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe is one of those special little treats that brings warmth and happiness to any table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these knobs of cheesy, garlicky joy are incredibly satisfying to make and even better to eat. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into making these delightful knots that everyone will beg you to share again and again!
Print
Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring soft pizza dough stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, brushed with a flavorful garlic butter blend, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, they pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping.
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 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Dough: Divide the pizza dough into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small rectangle or circle.
- Fill the Knots: Place about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough piece. Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges tightly to seal, shaping a knot.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the cheese-filled knots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow expansion during baking.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt, mixing thoroughly.
- Brush and Bake: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each knot. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the knots are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
- Optional Finishing Touch: For extra flavor, brush the knots with additional garlic butter immediately after removing them from the oven.
- Serve Warm: Serve the cheese-filled garlic knots warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure to seal the dough edges well to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
- Use store-bought pizza dough for convenience or homemade dough for a fresh flavor.
- These knots are best enjoyed warm right after baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for variation.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
