Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots: The Ultimate Recipe for Irresistible Appetizers

Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are a delightful twist on a classic favorite that never fails to impress. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy knot of dough, only to discover a gooey, cheesy center that oozes with flavor. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a touch of comfort to any gathering. Originating from Italian cuisine, garlic knots have become a beloved staple in pizzerias and homes alike, often served as an appetizer or snack. What I love most about these Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots is their perfect balance of savory garlic and rich cheese, making them irresistible to both kids and adults. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time for any occasion!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Flour, for dusting

Preparing the Dough

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your cheese-filled garlic knots bake perfectly. 2. **Prepare Your Workspace**: Lightly flour your countertop or a large cutting board. This will prevent the dough from sticking as you work with it. 3. **Roll Out the Dough**: If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, take it out of the package and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This makes it easier to stretch. Once it’s ready, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. 4. **Cut the Dough**: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. You should have around 12 strips.

Filling the Knots

5. **Add the Cheese**: Take a strip of dough and place about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese at one end. You can also sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. 6. **Form the Knots**: Starting from the end with the cheese, roll the dough strip tightly into a knot shape. You can twist it a couple of times for a more decorative look. Make sure to tuck the ends underneath to seal in the cheese. 7. **Repeat**: Continue this process with the remaining strips of dough until all the cheese is used up. Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each knot.

Preparing the Garlic Butter

8. **Melt the Butter**: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Be careful not to let it brown. 9. **Add Garlic and Herbs**: Once the butter is melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your knots that delicious garlic flavor.

Coating the Knots

10. **Brush the Knots**: Using a pastry brush, generously coat each garlic knot with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to get some of the garlic bits on each knot for maximum flavor. 11. **Bake the Knots**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Finishing Touches

12. **Remove from Oven**: Once the knots are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. The cheese will be extremely hot, so be careful when you take a bite! 13. **Final Brush of Garlic Butter**: For an extra burst of flavor, brush the knots with any remaining garlic butter right after they come out of the oven. 14. **Serve**: Transfer the garlic knots to a serving platter. You can sprinkle a little extra parsley on top for garnish if you like. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Storing and Reheating

15. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 16. **Reheating**: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the knots on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore their crispy exterior.

Tips for Perfect Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

17. **Dough Consistency**: If you’re making your own pizza dough, ensure it’s not too sticky. A well-kneaded dough will hold its shape better when forming knots. 18. **Cheese Variations**: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, provolone, or even

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The soft, pillowy dough paired with the gooey, melted cheese and the aromatic garlic butter creates a mouthwatering experience that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a gathering, a side dish for your favorite pasta, or just a tasty snack to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite show, these knots are sure to impress. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! You can pair them with marinara sauce for dipping, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an extra burst of flavor, or even experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese filling for a delicious twist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots turn out and any variations you come up with! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making it your own. So roll up your sleeves, get in the kitchen, and enjoy the process. Happy baking! Print