Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

If you love irresistibly soft bread loaded with melted cheese and drenched in savory garlic butter, then you are in for a real treat with these Cheese Filled Garlic Knots. This homemade recipe brings bakery-quality knots right to your kitchen, combining tender dough, ooey-gooey cheese, and bold garlic flavor in each bite. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or side, these Cheese Filled Garlic Knots are pure comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make at home with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate comfort food: Soft, warm, and cheesy knots that satisfy all your carb and cheese cravings in one bite.
• Simple homemade goodness: Made from scratch with easy pantry staples – no need for complicated techniques or weird ingredients.
• Perfectly garlicky: Each knot bursts with fresh garlic flavor balanced by buttery richness, making every mouthful irresistible.
• Customizable cheese options: Feel free to use mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend depending on your preference for melty goodness.
• Great for sharing: These knots are party-ready, easy to make in batches, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheese Filled Garlic Knots recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that work together to create perfect dough and rich flavor. Each component plays a key role, from the soft texture of the dough to the cheesy melt inside and the buttery garlic coating outside.

• All-purpose flour: The base for soft, chewy dough with just the right structure.
• Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour.
• Olive oil: Adds moisture and tenderizes the dough.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced, for that bold, pungent garlic taste.
• Mozzarella cheese: Stringy and melty, the perfect filling for each knot.
• Butter: Used to create the luscious garlic butter glaze coating the knots.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.

Variations for Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

One of the best things about Cheese Filled Garlic Knots is how easily you can customize them to match your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ways to mix it up without losing any of the garlic-knotted goodness!

• Cheese blend swap: Use a combination of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for extra flavor complexity.
• Herb infusion: Add chopped rosemary or thyme to the dough or garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy kick: Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for heat and depth.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust liquid ratios slightly for a safe alternative.
• Vegan option: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan butter to enjoy Dairy-free Cheese Filled Garlic Knots just as delicious.

How to Make Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Start by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl, letting it activate for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. Then combine flour, salt, olive oil, and the yeast mixture to form a soft dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, then let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the knots and add cheese

Once the dough has risen, divide it into small equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope and place a small piece of mozzarella in the center. Fold and pinch the dough around the cheese to seal it inside, then tie the rope into a knot shape.

Step 3: Bake the knots

Place the prepared knots on a greased baking sheet, cover them with a towel, and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.

Step 4: Make the garlic butter glaze

While the knots bake, melt butter in a pan over low heat and add freshly minced garlic. Cook gently until fragrant, then remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley if desired.

Step 5: Brush and serve

As soon as the Cheese Filled Garlic Knots come out of the oven, generously brush them with the warm garlic butter glaze. Serve immediately for the best experience of gooey cheese and rich garlic flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

• Use warm but not hot water: Yeast activates best around 105-110°F, too hot will kill it.
• Seal cheese well: Make sure the cheese is completely enclosed to avoid leakage while baking.
• Don’t skip the second rise: It makes the knots fluffy and light instead of dense.
• Brush generously with garlic butter: The finishing glaze is key to that iconic flavor and shine.
• Serve fresh and warm: Cheese Filled Garlic Knots are best enjoyed straight from the oven for optimal gooeyness.

How to Serve Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top right after glazing for added visual appeal and flavor lift.

Side Dishes

Pair these cheesy knots with marinara sauce for dipping, a fresh green salad, or a hearty pasta dish for a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Cheese Filled Garlic Knots in a circular pattern on a platter or serve them stacked alongside dipping bowls for a fun party appetizer setup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled Cheese Filled Garlic Knots in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days while maintaining good texture and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked knots on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Rewarm leftover knots in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melty and the exterior slightly crisp.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made dough for Cheese Filled Garlic Knots?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza or bread dough works well and can save time, just shape and fill the knots as listed.

What cheeses work best for the filling?

Mozzarella is a classic choice for meltiness, but you can also try provolone, cheddar, or a mix for different flavors and textures.

How do I make the knots less garlicky?

Reduce the amount of garlic in the butter glaze or use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.

Can I make these nut-free and allergy-friendly?

Yes, this recipe naturally contains no nuts. To cater to allergies, just double-check the cheese and butter brands for any cross-contamination warnings.

How long does the dough need to rise?

The first rise typically takes about 1 hour at room temperature until doubled in size, and the second rise for shaped knots is 20-30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Filled Garlic Knots are the perfect homemade treat to impress family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Soft, cheesy, and bursting with garlic goodness, these knots bring pure joy to any meal or gathering. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and make these delightful Cheese Filled Garlic Knots to brighten your next snack or dinner!

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