These Easy Garlic Parmesan Knots are a quick and delicious way to enjoy bakery-style bread at home. Made with pre-made biscuit dough, they are brushed with a flavorful garlic butter mixture and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish or snack!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) can refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll each biscuit into a 6-inch rope and tie into a knot, tucking the ends underneath. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, basil, and salt.
- Brush the butter mixture evenly over each knot.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
The History of Garlic Knots
Garlic knots have a fascinating history that dates back to Italian-American pizzerias in New York City. Originally created as a way to reduce waste, pizzerias would take leftover pizza dough, tie it into small knots, and bake them with garlic butter to make an irresistible treat. Over time, they became a staple in many Italian restaurants and pizza joints across the United States. The addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs has taken this humble creation to a whole new level, offering a gourmet twist on the classic.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it eliminates the need for homemade dough by using refrigerated buttermilk biscuits, which significantly reduces preparation time. Despite the shortcut, the final result is just as delicious and satisfying as traditional garlic knots. The blend of melted butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Another reason why these Garlic Parmesan Knots are a must-try is their versatility. They can be served as a snack, an appetizer, or a side dish. Whether paired with pasta, soup, or salad, they complement almost any meal beautifully. Plus, they’re a hit at gatherings and parties, as their small, bite-sized nature makes them easy to share.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Knots
To ensure that your garlic knots turn out perfect every time, consider the following tips:
- Use fresh garlic – While garlic powder can work in a pinch, fresh minced garlic provides a more robust flavor.
- Brush generously – Don’t skimp on the garlic butter mixture; it’s what gives these knots their irresistible taste.
- Bake until golden brown – Keep an eye on the oven and ensure they develop a nice golden hue for the best texture and flavor.
- Customize with extra seasonings – Feel free to experiment by adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
- Let them cool slightly – While these knots are best enjoyed warm, allowing them to rest for a few minutes enhances the texture and lets the flavors settle.
Serving Suggestions
These Garlic Parmesan Knots are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some excellent serving ideas:
- As an appetizer – Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of garlicky knots and tangy tomato sauce is a classic.
- With pasta – Pair them with spaghetti, fettuccine Alfredo, or any other Italian pasta dish to add a delicious, carb-filled side to your meal.
- Alongside soup – Enjoy these knots with creamy soups like tomato bisque, broccoli cheddar, or even a hearty minestrone.
- With salad – Serve them with a crisp Caesar or garden salad to balance out the meal with some freshness.
- As a snack – These knots make for a delightful snack on their own, especially when accompanied by a dipping sauce like ranch, garlic aioli, or pesto.
Nutritional Benefits and Considerations
While these Garlic Parmesan Knots are undeniably delicious, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional aspects:
- Calories – At approximately 150 calories per serving, these knots are a relatively light indulgence compared to many other bread-based sides.
- Carbohydrates – They contain about 18g of carbs per serving, making them a suitable energy source.
- Protein – With 3g of protein per serving, they provide a small boost of muscle-building nutrients.
- Fats – The butter and Parmesan contribute to the fat content, with about 7g of fat per serving, 4g of which are saturated.
- Sodium – With 400mg of sodium per serving, they do have a moderate salt content, so those watching their sodium intake may want to consume them in moderation.
- Fiber and Sugar – They contain about 1g of fiber and 2g of sugar per serving, making them a relatively balanced choice.
For a healthier twist, you can use whole wheat biscuit dough, reduce the butter content, or use a dairy-free butter alternative. Additionally, using fresh herbs instead of dried can enhance the flavor while keeping the sodium levels in check.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Parmesan Knots
If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), you can store them easily and reheat them for later enjoyment.
- Storage – Keep the knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Reheating – To maintain their crispy exterior, reheat the knots in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. You can also use an air fryer for an even quicker reheating process. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Fun Variations to Try
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, try these fun variations of the recipe:
- Cheesy Garlic Knots – Add shredded mozzarella to the dough before tying the knots for a gooey, cheesy surprise inside.
- Spicy Garlic Knots – Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Butter Knots – Use a combination of rosemary, thyme, and chives for an aromatic herb-infused version.
- Sweet Cinnamon Knots – Swap out the garlic butter for a cinnamon-sugar butter mixture to create a sweet treat instead.
Conclusion
Easy Garlic Parmesan Knots are a quick, delicious, and versatile addition to any meal. With the convenience of pre-made biscuit dough, you can whip up a batch in no time, impressing your family and friends with their delightful taste. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these knots are sure to be a hit. By following the tips and variations outlined in this article, you can customize them to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Try them out today and elevate your bread game with minimal effort!