Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Recipe

Nothing quite compares to the aroma of warm, buttery garlic knots fresh from the oven, except when they’re filled with gooey, melted cheese. These Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are little bites of pure comfort, golden on the outside, soft on the inside, and oozing with creamy cheese that makes every pull irresistible. Trust me, you’re going to love this one, especially when that first string of melted cheese stretches from your fingertips.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by the simple joy of sharing bread at the table. Growing up, garlic knots were a staple during family pizza nights, but one day I decided to add a little twist, literally, by tucking a bit of mozzarella inside each one. That small change turned them into something truly special, a snack that everyone reaches for first.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Garlic knots originated in Italian-American pizzerias as a way to use up leftover pizza dough. They quickly became a beloved side dish across New York, where bakers brushed them with garlicky butter and sprinkled them with parsley. Today, the addition of cheese gives them a modern upgrade that feels indulgent yet familiar.

Why You’ll Love Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish with pasta or soup.
Budget-Friendly: Made mostly with pantry staples like flour, butter, and cheese.
Quick and Easy: The dough comes together in minutes, and the knots bake up beautifully golden.
Customizable: Try different cheeses or sprinkle extra herbs on top for your own twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: These cheesy knots are guaranteed to disappear at any gathering.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the dough or even freeze the shaped knots to bake later.
Great for Leftovers: Reheat them for a quick snack or pair them with marinara sauce for dipping.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

The key to incredible garlic knots lies in balance, texture, and timing.

• Let the dough rise just enough to be airy but still firm enough to tie easily.
• Don’t overfill with cheese, or it will burst out during baking.
• Brush the knots generously with butter while warm to lock in flavor.
• Sprinkle flaky salt or parmesan just before serving for extra flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before diving in, make sure you have everything ready.
Mixing Bowl: To combine and knead the dough.
Rolling Pin: Helps flatten the dough evenly for filling.
Baking Sheet: For baking the knots until golden brown.
Pastry Brush: To spread melted butter and garlic over the warm knots.
Small Saucepan: To melt the butter and infuse it with garlic and herbs.

Ingredients in Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Let’s talk about what makes these knots irresistible, from the dough to the buttery finish.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups, forms the soft, pillowy base for the dough.
2. Instant Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons, helps the dough rise quickly and evenly.
3. Warm Water: ¾ cup, activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
4. Sugar: 1 teaspoon, gives the yeast a little boost.
5. Salt: 1 teaspoon, enhances the flavor of the dough.
6. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, keeps the dough tender and flavorful.
7. Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup (cut into small cubes), the melty, cheesy heart of every knot.
8. Butter: 4 tablespoons (melted), brushed on top for that glossy, savory finish.
9. Garlic: 3 cloves (minced), for the classic aroma and flavor.
10. Parsley: 1 tablespoon (chopped), adds freshness and color.
11. Parmesan Cheese: 2 tablespoons (optional), gives a salty, umami finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you need a little flexibility in the kitchen.
Mozzarella Cheese: Use provolone or Monterey Jack for a twist.
Olive Oil: Can be swapped for melted butter.
Parsley: Try basil or oregano for different flavors.
All-Purpose Flour: Substitute with bread flour for extra chew.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mozzarella Cheese: The star ingredient, giving that beautiful stretch and mild, creamy taste.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter with deep, savory flavor that ties the whole dish together.

Instructions for Making Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

And now, let’s dive into the fun part—making those golden, cheesy bites.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead until soft and smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly grease a bowl, place the dough inside, and cover. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Assemble the Dish: Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Cut into strips, place a small cube of cheese in each, and tie into a knot, sealing the ends well.
5. Cook to Perfection: Arrange knots on the baking sheet, cover, and let rest for 15 minutes. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
6. Finishing Touches: While baking, melt butter in a small pan with minced garlic. Once knots are done, brush generously with the garlic butter and sprinkle with parsley and parmesan.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm while the cheese is still melted inside. They’re perfect with marinara sauce for dipping.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These knots have a golden crust that gives way to a soft, fluffy interior. The garlic butter seeps into every crevice, and when you tear one open, the cheese stretches luxuriously. The balance between crispy edges and tender dough makes them truly addictive.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep these in mind for bakery-level results:

• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip brushing with butter—it’s what gives the knots their sheen and flavor.
• Serve immediately for maximum cheesiness.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overstuffing the knots with cheese, which causes leakage.
• Using cold butter—it won’t spread evenly.
• Baking too long, which can dry them out.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 knots
Calories per serving: 180
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 33 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Once baked, store the knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their crispness.

How to Serve Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots

Serve them warm alongside pasta, soup, or a fresh salad. They also make a great snack with a side of marinara or ranch dip. Sprinkle extra herbs on top for a restaurant-style touch.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover knots? Here’s what you can do:

• Slice and toast them for cheesy croutons.
• Reheat and serve with scrambled eggs for breakfast.
• Turn them into mini garlic sliders with fresh tomato slices.

Additional Tips

For even more flavor, mix a pinch of chili flakes into the garlic butter. You can also use flavored oils like rosemary or truffle oil for a gourmet version.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve the knots in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper, drizzle with a touch more butter, and sprinkle extra parsley for a bright pop of color. The glossy sheen and melty cheese will have everyone reaching for more.

Variations to Try

• Cheddar-Stuffed Knots: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar.
• Herb Lover’s Knots: Add Italian seasoning to the dough.
• Spicy Garlic Knots: Add chili flakes to the garlic butter.
• Mini Pizza Knots: Fill with cheese and a dab of marinara.
• Vegan Knots: Use vegan butter and dairy-free cheese.

FAQ’s

Q1. Can I make these without cheese?
Yes, just skip the cheese and make classic garlic knots instead.

Q2. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely, it works great and saves time.

Q3. What cheese melts best inside?
Mozzarella is perfect, but provolone or Monterey Jack also melt well.

Q4. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for bread making.

Q5. How can I reheat them?
Pop them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until warm and soft again.

Q6. Can I freeze the unbaked knots?
Yes, freeze before baking, then bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes added.

Q7. Why did my cheese leak out?
Make sure to seal the ends of each knot tightly around the cheese.

Q8. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, though fresh garlic gives a richer flavor.

Q9. What dipping sauces go well with these?
Marinara, ranch, or even garlic aioli are all delicious.

Q10. Are these better warm or room temperature?
They’re best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is perfectly melty.

Conclusion

These Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are everything you love about homemade bread, with the surprise of molten cheese inside and a buttery garlic finish. Each bite is a little celebration of flavor and comfort. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, and once you make them, they’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen.

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