These Easy Garlic Parmesan Knots are warm bites of dough that are perfect for sharing! You’ll love the tasty garlic butter and cheesy flavor that makes them so irresistible.
Honestly, they are a breeze to whip up—just tie the dough into knots, bake, and enjoy! I can’t resist dipping them in marinara sauce. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: For ease, I love using refrigerated pizza dough. It’s quick and requires no prep. If you want to make it from scratch, just ensure it’s a basic pizza dough recipe. You can also try bread dough if you prefer a slightly denser texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the go-to for this recipe, allowing you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. It will still yield tasty results!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor, but you can substitute with garlic powder if that’s what you have on hand. Just use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to get a nice flavor kick.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Mozzarella could also work in a pinch if you love that melty texture.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and fresh flavor. If you don’t have it, you can swap in dried parsley or even skip it entirely! A sprinkle of dried Italian herbs could also enhance the flavor.
How Do You Tie the Perfect Knot with Pizza Dough?
Creating those charming garlic knots is simple and fun! Here’s how you can tie them easily:
- Start with your cut strip of dough. Give it a gentle pull to stretch it slightly.
- Cross one end over the other, forming a loose loop.
- Take the end that’s on top and tuck it underneath, pulling it through the loop.
- Tighten the knot gently by pulling on both ends. Don’t worry about it being perfect; rustic looks add charm!
Remember, the key is to keep them loose and airy. The knots will rise and bake beautifully in the oven!

How to Make Easy Garlic Parmesan Knots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. All in all, you’ll have these tasty Garlic Parmesan Knots ready in about 30 minutes, making them a quick and delicious treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your knots bake evenly and become nice and golden. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light greasing.
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a clean surface, unroll your refrigerated pizza dough. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut the dough into about 12 equal strips. This will make it easier to tie them into knots!
3. Create the Knots:
Now it’s time to shape the knots! Take each strip of dough and tie it into a loose knot. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just secure the ends by pinching them together and place the knots on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all those delicious flavors together.
5. Brush with Butter:
Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, generously brush each knot with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure every nook and cranny gets that lovely garlicky flavor!
6. Bake the Knots:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You want the knots to be golden brown and thoroughly cooked through. Keep an eye on them as they bake!
7. Brush and Sprinkle:
As soon as the knots come out of the oven, brush them again with any leftover garlic butter. While they’re still warm, sprinkle them generously with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These knots are best enjoyed warm! Serve them as an appetizer, or alongside your favorite Italian dishes. For an extra tasty treat, try serving them with marinara sauce for dipping.
Happy cooking! Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Knots, perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or just when you crave something delicious!
Can I Use Homemade Dough Instead of Refrigerated Dough?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, feel free to use your favorite pizza dough recipe. Just ensure it’s well-kneaded and has had time to rise before you shape the knots.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano or even shredded mozzarella for a cheesy twist. For a dairy-free option, try sprinkling nutritional yeast for a similar flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Garlic Knots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh, you can also refrigerate them for about 4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Can I Make These Knots Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can shape the knots, place them on the baking sheet, and cover them with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from the fridge!
