Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Introduction

Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are a savory, irresistible snack that combines soft, pillowy dough with a gooey, melted cheese filling and a delicious garlic butter glaze. These knots are a perfect appetizer for any gathering, a side dish for pasta, or even a standalone snack when you’re craving something comforting and indulgent. The golden, crispy exterior gives way to the warm, cheesy interior, while the garlic butter topping adds a burst of flavor with each bite.

I remember making these for a family get-together, and they were gone in no time. The kitchen was filled with the rich scent of garlic and melted cheese, and everyone couldn’t get enough of these soft, cheesy bites. The great thing about these garlic knots is how versatile they are—you can adjust the amount of cheese and garlic to your taste, or even experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Making these garlic knots is surprisingly simple, with just a few ingredients and a bit of time. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or just as a comforting snack, these cheesy, garlic-filled treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

Perfect for:

• Appetizers
• Dinner sides
• Party snacks
• Family gatherings
• Cheese and garlic lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Here’s why Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots will quickly become your favorite:

• Cheesy and Flavorful: The melted cheese inside each knot is gooey and savory, complemented by the garlic butter glaze that infuses each bite with rich, savory flavor.
• Soft and Pillowy Texture: These garlic knots are soft and light on the inside, while still maintaining a slight crispness on the outside.
• Customizable Fillings: While this recipe uses mozzarella, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your tastes.
• Perfectly Seasoned: The garlic butter topping is packed with flavor, balancing out the richness of the cheese and adding a fragrant, aromatic finish to each knot.
• Easy to Make: The dough is simple to prepare, and the knots come together quickly, making this a perfect recipe for any skill level.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 12 knots
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Filling:
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese of choice)
• For the Garlic Butter Topping:
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Highlights

• Active Dry Yeast: This helps the dough rise and gives the garlic knots their fluffy, soft texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a creamy, gooey filling inside the dough. You can substitute with other melty cheeses like cheddar or provolone if desired.
• Garlic Butter: The garlic butter topping brings the knots to life with a savory, garlicky, and herby finish, elevating the whole dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and stir gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir to combine and form a dough.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Assemble the Knots:

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle, about 10×12 inches in size.
7. Add the Filling: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Cut and Shape the Knots: Slice the dough into 12 strips, about 1 inch wide. Take each strip and roll it into a knot, tucking the ends underneath. Place the knots on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake the Knots: Bake the knots in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Garlic Butter:

10. Make the Garlic Butter: While the knots are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
11. Coat the Knots: Once the garlic knots are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring each knot is generously coated.

How to Serve Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are perfect for many occasions:

• With Pizza or Pasta: These knots make an excellent side dish for pizza, pasta, or any Italian-themed meal.
• As a Snack: Serve them on their own with a side of marinara sauce for dipping for a delicious snack or appetizer.
• For Parties or Gatherings: These knots are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress guests with a savory treat.
• With a Salad: Pair these garlic knots with a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the cheese and garlic.

Additional Tips for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Here are some tips to ensure your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and hasn’t expired to guarantee the dough rises properly.
• Don’t Overfill the Knots: Be careful not to overstuff the knots with cheese, as it could cause the filling to leak out during baking.
• Let the Knots Rest: Allow the knots to cool slightly before serving to prevent burns from the hot cheese inside.
• Add Extra Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the butter topping for an even stronger garlic flavor.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: If possible, use room temperature water and olive oil when making the dough to help it mix more easily.

Recipe Variations for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Here are 5 variations you can try for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots:

• Cheese and Herb Garlic Knots: Add dried or fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor.
• Stuffed Garlic Knots with Pepperoni: Add slices of pepperoni inside the knots along with the cheese for a pizza-inspired twist.
• Cheddar and Jalapeño Garlic Knots: Use sharp cheddar cheese and finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy variation.
• Garlic Parmesan Knots: Skip the cheese filling and sprinkle the knots with Parmesan cheese and extra garlic butter before baking for a simple yet flavorful version.
• Spinach and Cheese Garlic Knots: Add a layer of sautéed spinach along with the mozzarella for a healthier, savory variation.

Freezing and Storage for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

• Freezing: To freeze the dough, shape the knots and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4-5 days and reheat in the oven for best results.

Special Equipment for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots easier:

• Electric Mixer: If you prefer, you can use a stand or hand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough.
• Baking Sheet: Use a parchment-lined or non-stick baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough to the right thickness.
• Brush: A pastry brush will help you evenly apply the garlic butter topping to the knots.
• Cooling Rack: Place the knots on a cooling rack to ensure they don’t get soggy from steam.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough or bread dough as a shortcut for the recipe.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the knots in advance and refrigerate or freeze them. Simply bake before serving.
3. Can I use a different cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
   Make sure to pinch the ends of each knot securely, and avoid overstuffing the dough with cheese.
5. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Print

Conclusion

Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are a cheesy, garlicky delight that will have everyone reaching for more! With a golden, buttery exterior and a melty, cheesy center, these knots are the ultimate comfort food. The combination of gooey cheese and aromatic garlic butter makes each bite perfectly savory and satisfying.

What’s great about this recipe is how easily customizable it is. You can tweak the cheese selection to suit your taste, or even add herbs or spices to elevate the flavor. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty meal, sharing them at a gathering, or enjoying them solo as a snack, these garlic knots are always a hit.

I can’t wait to see how your Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots turn out! Snap a pic, share it on social media, and tag me—I’d love to see your creation. Happy cooking!