Warm Parmesan Garlic Knots: A Buttery, Cheesy Delight

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Topping:

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Extra parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Knots

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
2. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions.
3. Roll each portion into a rope (about 6 inches long) and tie it into a knot, tucking the ends underneath.
4. Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 20 minutes.

Step 3: Bake the Knots

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush each knot with a bit of melted butter before baking.
3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. While the knots are baking, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
2. Once the knots come out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.
3. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the warm knots.
4. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Warm Parmesan Garlic Knots are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Pair them with pasta dishes like spaghetti, fettuccine alfredo, or lasagna.
• Enjoy them as a side to soups like tomato basil soup or minestrone.
• Serve alongside grilled meats or seafood for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Knots

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor better than garlic powder.
• Don’t Over-Knead: Knead just until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
• Let Them Rest: Allowing the knots to rise properly ensures a soft and fluffy texture.
• Brush Twice: Brushing the knots with butter before and after baking maximizes the buttery, garlicky taste.

Variations to Try

• Cheesy Garlic Knots: Add shredded mozzarella inside the dough before tying the knots.
• Spicy Garlic Knots: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a kick of heat.
• Herb-Infused Knots: Experiment with fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme for a unique flavor twist.

Conclusion

Homemade Warm  Parmesan Garlic Knots are an absolute delight, combining soft, chewy bread with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they are guaranteed to be a hit. Once you try making these at home, you’ll never want to settle for store-bought versions again!

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the heavenly aroma and taste of fresh garlic knots straight from your oven!