Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

If you’re craving something soft, cheesy, and bursting with garlic flavor, this Cheese Filled Garlic Knots recipe is your new best friend. These golden, pillowy knots stuffed with gooey cheese take your snack game to a whole new level. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, each bite combines the freshness of garlic with a luscious cheesy center wrapped in tender, perfectly baked dough. Whether it’s a casual snack or an impressive side, these Cheese Filled Garlic Knots will quickly become your go-to comfort treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable flavor: The blend of garlic butter and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that’s both rich and savory.
• Soft, fluffy texture: Achieving the perfect dough softness keeps every knot light and easy to eat.
• Easy to customize: You can adjust cheese types or add herbs for a personalized twist.
• Great for sharing: These knots make a fantastic party appetizer or a cozy family snack.
• Simple ingredients: No need for fancy items — just basics you probably have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in delivering the perfect Cheese Filled Garlic Knots—soft dough, rich cheese, and that irresistible garlic punch. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for soft, chewy knots that bake into golden perfection.
• Yeast: The magic behind the dough’s rise and airiness, creating fluffy knots.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast and helps develop the dough’s texture.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast for a perfect rise and adds a hint of sweetness.
• Salt: Balances flavor and enhances the dough’s taste.
• Olive oil: Keeps the dough tender and adds subtle richness.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for bold, aromatic garlic flavor.
• Butter: Melts over the knots for a buttery, savory finish.
• Mozzarella cheese: The melty, creamy center that makes these knots irresistible.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.

Variations for Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Cheese Filled Garlic Knots are incredibly adaptable, easy to customize based on what you have or prefer. Here are some tasty twist ideas:

• Cheese blends: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or a mix for a different cheesy vibe.
• Herb infusion: Add basil, oregano, or rosemary to the dough or garlic butter for extra depth.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes inside or on top for a little heat.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based cheese and olive oil instead of butter.
• Stuffed surprises: Introduce pepperoni or sun-dried tomatoes inside the knots for a savory twist.

How to Make Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. Then add flour, salt, and olive oil, kneading to form a soft, elastic dough. Cover with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Knots

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a small rope, then wrap it around your finger to create a knot. Tuck the ends securely to lock in the shape and ensure the cheese stays inside.

Step 3: Add the Cheese Filling

Before sealing the knots, place a small cube or generous pinch of mozzarella in the center. Carefully pinch the dough around the cheese to enclose it completely, making sure no cheese leaks out during baking.

Step 4: Bake and Brush with Garlic Butter

Place the knots on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. While baking, melt butter with minced garlic and finely chopped parsley. Once out of the oven, brush the hot knots generously with this garlic butter mixture to infuse maximum flavor and shine.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Let the Cheese Filled Garlic Knots cool slightly so the cheese settles inside, then dig in! They’re best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven for that perfect gooey cheese pull and irresistible garlic aroma.

Pro Tips for Making Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps yeast activate properly and results in better dough texture.
• Don’t skip resting time: Allow the dough to rise fully for soft knots with the perfect crumb.
• Seal knots well: Making sure cheese is fully enclosed prevents leaking and burning in the oven.
• Brush generously: Garlic butter on top is the flavor bomb that takes these knots to legendary status.
• Use fresh garlic: Fresh minced garlic maximizes that savory, aromatic punch unlike powder or pre-made pastes.

How to Serve Cheese Filled Garlic Knots

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the knots for added color and a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the garlic and cheese perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside marinara sauce for dipping, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of hearty tomato soup to round out your meal with contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Thread Cheese Filled Garlic Knots onto skewers as fun, shareable finger food at parties, or serve them stacked in a basket lined with parchment paper for a rustic, cozy look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked, shaped knots on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

Warm knots in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore softness and melty cheese—avoid microwaving to prevent the dough from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Pre-made pizza dough works great and makes the process even faster, just follow the shaping and filling steps as usual.

What cheeses work best for Cheese Filled Garlic Knots?

Mozzarella is classic for meltiness, but feel free to experiment with provolone, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavors.

How long do Cheese Filled Garlic Knots stay fresh?

They’re best eaten within 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days refrigerated, but freezing will extend their shelf life.

Can I make these knots gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free flour blend and adjust hydration as needed for a similar texture, though rising time may vary.

Is it possible to make vegan Cheese Filled Garlic Knots?

Definitely! Substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives and swap butter for vegan margarine or olive oil to keep the recipe plant-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Give these Cheese Filled Garlic Knots a try and watch them become a favorite in your kitchen! With their irresistible garlic aroma, ooey-gooey cheese centers, and soft dough, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether eaten as a quick snack or an impressive party treat, this recipe is a delicious way to bring everyone together and enjoy warm, comforting bites full of flavor.

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