Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cheese filled garlic knots! They’re absolutely divine—soft, pillowy dough wrapped around gooey, melted mozzarella and brushed with a heavenly garlic butter mixture. Seriously, every bite feels like a warm hug! I first made these little delights for a game night with friends, and they disappeared faster than I could say, “Who wants more?” Everyone was raving about them, and I couldn’t help but feel like a rockstar chef! The best part? They’re so easy to whip up, making them perfect for snacks, appetizers, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try these cheese filled garlic knots, you’ll be hooked! They’re the kind of treat that makes your heart smile.
Ingredients for Cheese Filled Garlic Knots
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making those irresistible cheese filled garlic knots! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package of pizza dough: You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! Just make sure it’s at room temperature for easy rolling.
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded: Freshly shredded gives the best melt and flavor, but pre-shredded works too if you’re in a pinch.
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted: This is going to be brushed over the knots for that delicious garlic flavor. Make sure it’s fully melted but not sizzling hot!
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch! The more you use, the better the flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your love for garlic.
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped: This adds a pop of color and a fresh taste. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried will work in a pinch—just use half the amount!
- 1 teaspoon of salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors. You can adjust this based on your taste or dietary needs.
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the flavor. You can add more if you like a bit of a kick!
That’s it! With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making the most delicious cheese filled garlic knots that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Cheese Filled Garlic Knots
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these scrumptious cheese filled garlic knots! Don’t worry; it’s easier than it sounds, and I’ll guide you through each step. Just follow along, and you’ll be a garlic knot pro in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your knots are ready to bake!
- Next, roll out that pizza dough on a floured surface. You want it to be about ¼ inch thick, so it’s easy to cut and fold.
- Now, cut the dough into small squares—about 3 inches per side works great! Don’t stress if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing.
- Grab your mozzarella cheese and place a small amount (about a tablespoon) right in the center of each square. Oh, the gooeyness to come!
- Fold the corners of the dough over the cheese, pinching them together tightly to seal in all that cheesy goodness. Give them a good pinch to make sure they don’t leak!
- In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. This is the magic garlic butter that will coat your knots.
- Brush that glorious garlic butter mixture generously over each knot—don’t be shy here; you want every bit of flavor!
- Now, place your knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space to breathe.
- Bake them for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and the smell wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug.
- Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a minute before serving, and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky delight!
And there you have it! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have the most amazing cheese filled garlic knots that everyone will adore. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: Seriously, if I can whip these up in no time, so can you! The steps are straightforward, and you don’t need any fancy skills.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of gooey mozzarella and aromatic garlic butter is simply out of this world! Each bite is bursting with flavor that’ll leave you wanting more.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night, a cozy dinner, or a potluck with friends, these cheese filled garlic knots are always a crowd-pleaser!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add your favorite herbs and spices. You can even try different dipping sauces for an extra treat!
- Great for Meal Prep: You can make a batch ahead of time, and they reheat beautifully, making them a fantastic snack or appetizer whenever you crave something delicious!
- Vegetarian Friendly: These knots are meat-free and packed with cheesy goodness, making them a great option for veggie lovers!
Trust me, once you try these cheese filled garlic knots, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them! They’re just that good.
Equipment Needed
To make these delicious cheese filled garlic knots, you’ll need a few essential tools to help you along the way. Don’t worry; you probably have most of these at home already!
- Oven: A reliable oven is crucial for baking those knots to golden perfection. Make sure to preheat it to 400°F (200°C) before you start!
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper will keep your knots from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Rolling Pin: This will help you roll out the pizza dough evenly. If you don’t have one, a wine bottle works in a pinch!
- Knife or Pizza Cutter: To slice your dough into those cute little squares, a sharp knife or pizza cutter works perfectly.
- Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a bowl for mixing that heavenly garlic butter. A medium-sized one works well.
- Brush: A pastry brush is ideal for applying the garlic butter mixture to your knots, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor!
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements, these are a must. Precision is key to achieving the best flavor!
With these tools in hand, you’ll be all set to create the most amazing cheese filled garlic knots that’ll impress everyone at your next gathering!
Tips for Success
Alright, before you dive into making your cheese filled garlic knots, let me share some of my top tips to ensure they come out perfectly every single time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When rolling out your pizza dough, be gentle! Overworking can make your knots tough instead of light and fluffy. Just roll it out until it’s about ¼ inch thick, and you’re good to go!
- Seal Them Well: Make sure to pinch the dough corners tightly when folding over the cheese. This is crucial to keep all that gooey goodness inside. If they’re not sealed well, you might end up with cheese leaks—nobody wants that!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs really elevate the flavor of your knots. If you can, avoid using pre-minced garlic or dried parsley for the best taste experience!
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your knots while they bake! Ovens can vary, so check them around the 15-minute mark. You want them golden brown and beautiful; burnt knots are a sad sight!
- Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is fantastic, don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try adding some parmesan or cheddar for a different flavor profile. The more cheesy goodness, the better!
- Make Extra Garlic Butter: If you’re a garlic lover like me, consider making a little extra garlic butter to brush on after baking. It adds even more flavor and makes them irresistibly tasty!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making the most incredible cheese filled garlic knots that will wow your family and friends. Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store those delightful cheese filled garlic knots and keep them tasting amazing! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), here’s how to handle them:
- Storing: Allow the knots to cool completely before storing them. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the sooner you eat them, the better they’ll taste!
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze them! Just wrap each knot in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
For reheating, I recommend using the oven to bring back that lovely crispy texture:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the knots on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to keep them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through.
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just pop a knot on a plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overdo it, or they’ll get tough!
By following these storage and reheating tips, you’ll ensure that your cheese filled garlic knots remain as delicious as the first time you made them. Enjoy every cheesy bite, even on day two or three!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of these cheesy delights! It’s always nice to have a rough idea of what you’re enjoying, right? Here’s a typical breakdown for one scrumptious cheese filled garlic knot:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 6g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But no matter the numbers, one thing’s for sure—these cheese filled garlic knots are a delightful treat that’s worth every bite! Enjoy them guilt-free, and let the cheesy goodness shine!
FAQ Section
Can I use homemade pizza dough for these cheese filled garlic knots?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough can add a personal touch and taste even better. Just make sure it’s well-prepared and at room temperature for easy handling.
What can I dip my cheese filled garlic knots in?
Oh, you’re in for a treat! These knots pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or even a creamy ranch dressing. Feel free to get creative with your dips!
Can I make these cheese filled garlic knots ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the knots up to the baking stage, place them on the baking sheet, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking!
What’s the best way to reheat leftover cheese knots?
The oven is your best bet! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), cover the knots with foil to keep them moist, and heat for about 10-15 minutes. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh!
Can I freeze the dough or the baked knots?
Yes, you can freeze both! For the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it for up to 3 months. For baked knots, wrap each one in plastic and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
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