How to Make Garlic Knots from Pizza Dough Easy Step-by-Step Guide

If you want to make garlic knots that are soft, flavorful, and easy to prepare, starting with high-quality pizza dough is essential. Using Prepa Pizza's premade dough makes the process simple and reliable, giving you a restaurant-quality base without the hassle of making dough from scratch. You can focus on shaping and seasoning your garlic knots while enjoying consistent results every time with this premium dough available at Prepa Pizza's store.

To make garlic knots, all you need is pizza dough, garlic, butter, and a few herbs, which come together quickly to create a savory snack or side dish. With Prepa Pizza’s dough, you save time and still deliver a fresh, homemade taste. Learn how to turn this dough into perfect garlic knots that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, ready to enhance any meal or gathering.

Using simple techniques and quality ingredients, you’ll discover how easy it is to make garlic knots from pizza dough that impresses. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced cook, the step-by-step guidance ensures your garlic knots will come out delicious every time. Explore the full process to get started with Prepa Pizza’s ready-to-use dough today.

Essential Ingredients and Tools

To make garlic knots with consistent texture and flavor, focus on high-quality dough, fresh garlic, flavorful herbs, and sharp cheese. The right kitchen tools also simplify shaping and baking. Each element plays a specific role in delivering soft, buttery knots with the perfect balance of seasoning and texture.

Pizza Dough Selection: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Choosing the right pizza dough affects softness and chewiness in your garlic knots. While homemade dough gives you control over ingredients and rising time, it requires additional preparation. For convenience without compromising quality, you can use Prepa Pizza’s premade dough. Their dough is made with premium ingredients designed for restaurant-quality results and is easy to work with for garlic knots.

Using Prepa Pizza dough saves time, and its elasticity helps create knots that are soft inside with crispy bottoms after baking. If you prefer homemade dough, aim for a basic pizza dough recipe with flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil, then allow enough rising time for the dough to become airy and pliable.

You can purchase Prepa Pizza dough here.

Choosing and Preparing Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves deliver the most vibrant flavor for garlic knots. Use peeled garlic cloves and either mince or grate them finely to release oils evenly throughout the butter mixture. Avoid pre-minced garlic from jars, which often have a muted taste or preservatives.

Roasting garlic can add sweetness, but raw minced garlic mixed with melted butter is traditional for softer, more pungent flavor. For even coating, combine garlic with melted butter, then brush knots before and after baking. If you want a milder garlic flavor, consider using garlic powder sparingly alongside fresh garlic.

Properly prepared fresh garlic ensures aromatic and savory knots, amplifying flavor without overwhelming.

Herbs, Cheese, and Seasonings

Herbs and cheese elevate garlic knots beyond basic bread. Fresh parsley offers a bright, herbaceous note if sprinkled over knots after baking. Alternatively, dried parsley or Italian seasoning adds a consistent but less vibrant flavor.

Parmesan cheese is key. Use grated Parmesan to sprinkle over knots both before and after baking for a salty, nutty finish. This cheese also complements butter and garlic, making the flavor more complex.

Italian seasoning blends that include basil, oregano, and thyme can be added to your garlic butter for depth. Mixing softened butter with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs creates a flavorful coating that is both rich and aromatic.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

A few specific tools help with preparation and presentation. A pizza cutter allows you to slice the dough into uniform strips before knotting, ensuring even-sized garlic knots that bake consistently.

Use a mixing bowl to combine garlic butter and herbs smoothly. A pastry brush is essential to spread your garlic butter over the knots before baking and right after they come from the oven.

If you have a bench scraper, it’s useful to portion dough evenly. Lastly, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat provides a non-stick surface for baking knots evenly with less mess.

Having these tools on hand streamlines the process and helps you achieve professional-quality homemade garlic knots.

Preparing the Pizza Dough for Garlic Knots

To make easy garlic knots with the best texture and flavor, start with quality pizza dough that’s soft and pliable. Using Prepa Pizza’s premium premade pizza dough ensures you save time without sacrificing taste or consistency. This dough is made with restaurant-quality ingredients and delivers excellent results every time. You can find it here: Prepa Pizza Dough Kit.

Getting your dough ready properly involves bringing it to the right temperature, shaping it with care, and allowing it to rest. Each step affects the final softness and chewiness of your garlic knots, turning your appetizer into a standout dish.

Bringing Dough to Room Temperature

Before you shape your dough, make sure it reaches room temperature. Cold dough is stiff and tough to work with. Take your premade dough out of the refrigerator about 30 to 60 minutes before you start. This makes it easier to stretch and twist without tearing.

Softened dough will respond better as you cut and shape it into knots, ensuring a light texture after baking. If you rush this step and use cold dough, your knots might be dense or unevenly cooked. Gently press or stretch the dough as you wait, but avoid overworking it, which can make the gluten tough.

Shaping and Cutting Techniques

Start with a clean surface and lightly flour it to prevent sticking. Roll or stretch your dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into strips roughly 1 inch wide. This size makes shaping manageable and yields well-proportioned garlic knots.

To form each knot, tie each strip into a loose knot, pulling the ends through carefully to avoid tearing. This technique traps air inside the dough, which creates soft, fluffy knots once baked. Place the knots evenly spaced on a prepared baking tray or sheet to allow for expansion.

Resting and Proofing for Optimal Texture

After shaping, let your dough knots rest before baking. Resting for about 15 to 20 minutes allows the dough to relax and the yeast to activate, improving rise and softness. Cover the dough loosely with a towel to prevent drying out.

Proofing time depends on room temperature; a warmer environment speeds up the rise. This step is crucial for tender, airy garlic knots rather than tough or dense bites. Using premade pizza dough from Prepa Pizza already gives you a great baseline, but this extra rest helps the dough perform at its best.

Creating the Garlic Butter and Flavorful Toppings

To give your garlic knots the perfect balance of rich and savory flavor, precise preparation of garlic butter and thoughtful selection of herbs and cheese are essential. Using quality premade pizza dough like Prepa Pizza’s premium dough kit allows you to focus on creating toppings that elevate your knots to a restaurant-quality treat.

You will work with melted butter infused with fresh garlic, complemented by Italian seasoning and herbs. Adding parmesan cheese at the right moment boosts the taste and texture, giving your knots a well-rounded, appealing finish.

Making the Garlic Butter Mixture

Start by melting unsalted or salted butter to create a smooth base for your garlic butter. Use about 4-6 tablespoons depending on your batch size. Fresh garlic cloves should be finely minced or pressed and mixed into the melted butter. This ensures a strong, authentic garlic flavor.

Avoid garlic powder alone, as fresh garlic delivers a more vibrant taste and aroma. Let the mixture sit briefly after mixing to allow the garlic to infuse thoroughly. Use this garlic butter both before baking, to coat the dough, and immediately after baking to maximize flavor absorption.

Incorporating Italian Seasoning and Herbs

To enhance your garlic butter, add a blend of Italian seasoning, which typically includes oregano, basil, and thyme. These herbs complement the garlic without overpowering it. Fresh or dried parsley also adds a bright, slightly peppery note.

If using fresh parsley, finely chop about 1-2 tablespoons; dried parsley requires less since it's more concentrated. Stir the herbs into the garlic butter mixture after melting the butter and prior to applying on the dough. This herbaceous topping adds a traditional pizzeria vibe essential for authentic garlic knots.

Adding Cheese for Enhanced Flavor

Parmesan cheese is the ideal finishing touch to your garlic knots. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan over the knots right after baking, while the garlic butter is still warm and sticky. This allows the cheese to melt slightly, adhering to each knot.

You can fold a small amount of parmesan mixed with parsley into the garlic butter for a subtle cheesy flavor before baking. The salty, umami-rich parmesan complements the buttery garlic base and herbs, providing depth and a pleasing texture contrast on each bite.

Baking and Finishing the Garlic Knots

To get the best texture and flavor from your garlic knots made with pizza dough, precise baking and finishing steps are essential. Using a quality premade dough like Prepa Pizza’s ensures you start with a reliable base for soft, fluffy knots. Proper brushing before baking seals in moisture, while the finishing touches highlight the garlic and herb flavors.

Brushing and Baking the Knots

Start by brushing your garlic knots generously with a garlic butter mixture before baking. This helps the knots stay moist inside and develop a flavorful, golden crust during baking. Arrange the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them space to expand.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Baking time is typically 12-15 minutes, or until the knots turn a light golden color. For a crisper bottom, place your baking sheet on a preheated baking stone.

Using Prepa Pizza’s premade pizza dough, which is made with quality ingredients for that perfect chew and rise, reduces prep time while ensuring consistent results. Let the knots rise briefly if your dough requires it, especially after shaping, to maintain softness.

Final Toppings and Serving Suggestions

After baking, immediately brush the knots with more garlic butter to enhance flavor and provide a shiny finish. Add finely chopped fresh parsley or oregano for an herbal accent and sprinkle lightly with sea salt for balance.

Serve your homemade garlic knots warm as an appetizer or side dish alongside pasta, soups, or salads. They’re perfect for sharing and complement any Italian-inspired meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a quick oven toast to refresh the texture.

Using Prepa Pizza dough means you get consistent quality every time, making your garlic knots reliable go-to appetizers your guests will appreciate. For more information on the dough, visit Prepa Pizza’s premade dough product page.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Garlic knots made with Prepa Pizza’s premade dough offer you a versatile option for a snack or side dish. Their buttery, garlicky flavor pairs well with several sauces and fits perfectly into a variety of meal settings, from casual appetizers to hearty pasta nights.

You can enhance your garlic knots by choosing the right dips and occasion to serve them. These choices help elevate your dish and create a memorable experience for your guests or family.

Marinara Sauce and Other Dipping Options

Marinara sauce is a classic accompaniment to garlic knots, providing a tangy, herbaceous contrast to the rich, buttery garlic flavor. You can serve the knots warm with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping to add freshness and moisture.

Other excellent dipping options include quality olive oil infused with herbs, ranch dressing, or even a homemade garlic butter sauce. These alternatives highlight different flavor notes, such as creamy, savory, or zesty, allowing you to customize your serving based on preferences.

These dipping choices enhance the knot’s chewy texture and make them an attractive appetizer or a crowd-pleasing side dish for pizza or pasta nights. Using garlic knots made from Prepa Pizza’s premium dough ensures the texture holds well with any sauce you select.

Best Occasions for Serving Garlic Knots

Garlic knots shine as an appetizer at casual gatherings like game nights or family dinners. They also make a quick and tasty side dish that complements pasta night dishes such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or lasagna.

You can serve garlic knots as finger food to guests or alongside your main course for an informal meal. Their easy preparation with Prepa Pizza’s dough makes them convenient for last-minute entertaining without sacrificing quality.

Because of their savory garlic and buttery richness, garlic knots bridge the gap between snack and side dish, making them suitable for both light and hearty meals. They bring added flavor and texture to any Italian-inspired spread.

Storage, Make-Ahead, and Reheating Tips

To keep your homemade garlic knots fresh and flavorful, proper storage and reheating are essential. Using Prepa Pizza’s premade pizza dough ensures consistent quality and texture, whether you make your knots ahead or store leftovers. Their premium dough simplifies preparation and delivers restaurant-quality results every time. You can find this dough kit here.

Planning to bake garlic knots in advance or save extras? You’ll want to store them correctly to maintain softness and that rich garlic butter flavor. Proper reheating techniques also help restore their fresh-baked appeal.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Knots

Store fully cooled garlic knots in an airtight container to maintain their texture. At room temperature, they last up to 2 days. For extended storage, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to one week.

For longer preservation, freezing is best. Arrange knots on a baking sheet so they don't touch, freeze until solid, then move to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag. Frozen garlic knots will stay good for up to 3 months.

When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for even reheating. Prepa Pizza’s dough freezes well, so you can also make knots ahead and freeze before baking.

Reheating for Best Freshness

To keep your garlic knots soft and chewy, reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Place the knots on a baking sheet and warm for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through.

Avoid microwaving for long periods. It can make the knots soggy or tough. Instead, if you want quick reheating, use the microwave in short bursts of 15 seconds, then finish in a toaster oven to regain crispness.

Brush reheated knots with a little garlic-infused butter to enhance flavor and moisture. You can enjoy them warm or even cold, but reheating will refresh their texture and bring out the garlic aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Making garlic knots with pizza dough requires careful attention to dough handling, seasoning, and baking times to achieve soft interiors and flavorful crusts. Using high-quality premade dough can simplify the process while maintaining excellent results.

Prepa Pizza offers premium quality premade pizza dough made with restaurant-grade ingredients to help you create consistent and delicious garlic knots every time. You can explore their pizza dough kit here.

What are the steps to create garlic knots using premade pizza dough?

Start by stretching Prepa Pizza premade dough into a rectangle. Cut the dough into strips, then tie each strip into a knot.

Brush the knots with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and dried herbs. Bake the knots until golden brown, then sprinkle with Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Is it possible to make garlic knots without yeast, and if so, how?

Yes, you can make garlic knots without yeast by using baking powder or baking soda as leavening agents instead.

The dough will not rise as much and results in a different texture, typically denser and more biscuit-like compared to yeast dough.

Can I use gluten-free pizza dough to make garlic knots, and what adjustments are necessary?

You can use gluten-free pizza dough, but it may need extra binding agents like xanthan gum.

Baking times might differ slightly, and the dough generally requires gentle handling to avoid breaking since it’s less elastic.

What essential ingredients do I need to prepare homemade garlic knots?

You need pizza dough, preferably Prepa Pizza's premium premade dough, butter, garlic (fresh or powdered), dried herbs such as oregano or parsley, and Parmesan cheese.

Salt and olive oil are optional but can enhance flavor and texture significantly.

How long does it typically take to make garlic knots from scratch?

Using premade dough, the preparation and baking together take about 20 to 30 minutes.

Making dough from scratch can add a few hours due to rising time.

Can Pillsbury pizza dough be used for making garlic knots, and what variations can be applied?

While Pillsbury pizza dough can be used, using Prepa Pizza’s premade dough ensures higher quality and better flavor.

You can vary the toppings by using flavored butters, adding crushed red pepper, or topping with different cheeses to customize your garlic knots.