Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite appetizer—cheese filled garlic knots! Seriously, these little bundles of joy are soft, savory rolls bursting with gooey cheese and slathered in heavenly garlic butter. I mean, what’s not to love? Every bite is a delightful mix of flavors that just makes your taste buds dance!
These cheese filled garlic knots have become a staple at my gatherings. Whether it’s game night, movie marathons, or family dinners, they always steal the show. The aroma of baking garlic knots wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! I love serving them fresh out of the oven, and trust me, they disappear fast—like, « oops, where did they go? » fast!
Making these knots is not only fun, but it’s also such an easy way to impress my friends and family. You can whip them up in no time, and I just know that once you try them, they’ll become a favorite in your home too. So, let’s dive into the recipe and get those cheesy, garlicky knots rolling!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 package pizza dough: This is the base for our knots. You can use store-bought dough or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Use the freshest mozzarella you can find for that melty, gooey goodness.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: This will be the magic that coats our knots in rich flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It adds that irresistible aroma and taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: A little sprinkle for color and flavor. You can also use fresh parsley if you have it on hand!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance all those yummy flavors.
How to Prepare Cheese Filled Garlic Knots
Preheat and Prepare
Alright, let’s kick things off! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because we want those cheese filled garlic knots to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While the oven is warming up, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface. You want it to be nice and smooth, so don’t rush this part! If you’re using store-bought dough, it should be ready to roll, but if you made your own—good for you! Just make sure it’s at room temperature for easier handling.
Shaping the Knots
Now for the fun part—shaping those knots! Cut the rolled-out dough into strips, about 1 inch wide. Grab a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and place it at one end of each strip. Here’s where the magic happens: roll the dough around the cheese, tucking it in as you go. Then, tie it into a knot! Don’t worry if it looks a little messy; that’s part of the charm! Just make sure the cheese is tucked inside, or you’ll have cheesy explosions in the oven, and while that sounds fun, we want to keep it contained for maximum flavor!
Preparing the Garlic Butter
Next up, let’s get that garlic butter ready! In a small bowl, melt your butter in the microwave or on the stovetop—just be careful, it can splatter! Once melted, mix in the minced garlic, dried parsley, and salt. This step is crucial because it’s what gives the knots that irresistible garlic flavor. I can already smell it! Make sure everything is well combined; you want the garlic and parsley to infuse into that buttery goodness. Trust me, this mixture is going to make your cheese filled garlic knots sing!
Baking the Cheese Filled Garlic Knots
Now, let’s get those knots into the oven! Place your beautifully shaped knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each knot—don’t be shy! Once they’re all coated, pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until they’re a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end, because you want that perfect color. When you pull them out, the aroma will be out of this world! Just let them cool for a minute before diving in, so you don’t burn your tongue on that gooey cheese!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! While these cheese filled garlic knots are undeniably delicious, it’s always good to keep an eye on what we’re munching on. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional data for one knot:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, and actual nutrition can vary based on brands and measurements. So, while you indulge in these tasty knots, just remember to enjoy them in moderation! Happy snacking!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cheese filled garlic knots turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to elevate your knot game:
- Fresh is best: If you can, use fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Fresh parsley or even basil can really kick those flavors up a notch. Plus, the aroma is just divine!
- Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try adding some parmesan, provolone, or even a little sharp cheddar for an extra kick. The more cheese, the merrier, right?
- Spice it up: Want to add a little heat? Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into your garlic butter mixture. It adds a delightful warmth that pairs beautifully with the garlic!
- Don’t rush the dough: Allow your pizza dough to rest if you’re using homemade. It makes it easier to roll out and shape, ensuring you have nice, fluffy knots.
- Brush generously: When applying that garlic butter, don’t hold back! A good coating not only adds flavor but helps achieve that golden-brown crust we all love.
- Serve immediately: These knots are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still melty. If you can, gather your friends and family around to dig in right away!
With these tips, you’ll be a cheese filled garlic knot pro in no time! Just remember, the most important ingredient is your enthusiasm—enjoy the process and have fun!
Variations
Now, let’s get creative with our cheese filled garlic knots! One of the best parts about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some fun variations that you can try to mix things up:
- Cheesy Trio: Why stick to just mozzarella? Try a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for a rich, cheesy explosion in every bite! The different flavors and textures will make your knots extra special.
- Herb Garden: Get adventurous with fresh herbs! Adding chopped fresh basil or rosemary to your garlic butter gives it a fragrant twist that really elevates the flavor. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, toss some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese filling. It adds a delightful spiciness that pairs perfectly with the garlic!
- Pesto Swirl: Spread a thin layer of pesto inside your dough before adding the cheese. The basil and garlic flavors in the pesto will harmonize beautifully with the garlic knots, making them even more irresistible!
- Meaty Delight: For those who want a little extra heartiness, consider adding some cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or pepperoni into the cheese filling. It turns your knots into a meal all on their own!
- Sweet Treat: Why not take a sweet twist? Stuff your knots with a mix of cream cheese and a bit of cinnamon sugar instead of cheese. Bake them, then drizzle with icing for a dessert twist that’s just as fun!
These variations are just jumping-off points! Feel free to experiment and find the flavor combinations that make your taste buds sing. The sky’s the limit, so let your creativity shine through in your delicious cheese filled garlic knots!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Okay, let’s talk about keeping those delicious cheese filled garlic knots fresh! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, but it can happen!), you’ll want to store them properly so they stay tasty for your next snack attack.
First, let them cool completely before you tuck them away. Once they’re cool, pop them in an airtight container. This will help keep them from drying out and maintain that lovely texture. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep an eye on them; they’re best enjoyed fresh!
If you want to save them for a later date, you can also freeze these little bundles of joy! Just wrap each knot individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Now, for reheating, you have a couple of options to keep that gooey cheese and soft texture intact. If you’ve got the time, the oven is your best friend! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the knots on a baking sheet, and heat them for about 10-15 minutes until they’re warmed through. This will give you that freshly-baked vibe!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but be careful! Pop them in for about 15-20 seconds at a time. Keep checking to avoid that rubbery texture. You might want to cover them with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. And voilà! You’ll have those cheese filled garlic knots ready to enjoy again in no time!
FAQ Section
Can I use homemade pizza dough for these cheese filled garlic knots?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works beautifully and adds a personal touch. Just make sure it’s well-kneaded and has had time to rise for that perfect fluffiness!
What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
No worries! You can substitute it with any cheese you love. Cheddar, provolone, or even a blend will work great. Just keep in mind the melting qualities of the cheese you choose!
How do I make these garlic knots vegan?
To make these cheese filled garlic knots vegan, swap the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese and use vegan butter for the garlic butter mixture. They’ll still be delicious and satisfying!
Can I prepare the knots ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the knots ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover garlic knots?
The oven is the best way to reheat them! Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the knots on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them soft and the cheese gooey!
Cheese Filled Garlic Knots: 7 Reasons to Indulge Today
- Temps Total: 40 minutes
- Rendement: 12 knots 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Cheese filled garlic knots are soft, savory rolls filled with gooey cheese and coated in garlic butter.
Ingrédients
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface.
- Cut into strips and place a small amount of cheese at one end.
- Roll the dough around the cheese and tie into a knot.
- Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter and mix in garlic, parsley, and salt.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture over the knots.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for a stronger flavor.
- Try adding spices to the butter for extra taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Temps De Préparation: 20 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Appetizer
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 knot
- Calories: 150
- Sucre: 1g
- De Sodium: 250mg
- La graisse: 8g
- Graisses Saturées: 5g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 2g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 15g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 5g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 20mg
Mots-clés: cheese filled garlic knots, garlic knots, cheese knots, Italian appetizer
