Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite snack: cheese filled garlic knots! These little beauties are like a warm hug for your taste buds, filled with gooey, melty cheese and slathered in a rich garlic butter that’ll make your kitchen smell heavenly. I still remember the first time I made them for a family get-together; they vanished faster than I could pull them out of the oven! Everyone was raving about how soft and buttery they were, and honestly, I couldn’t stop at just one. They’re perfect for movie nights, game days, or whenever you need a cozy comfort food moment. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
Before we dive into making these delightful cheese filled garlic knots, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Having your ingredients prepped and ready will make the process so much smoother, trust me! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Make sure to use fresh ingredients, especially the garlic, for that punch of flavor! And don’t hesitate to switch up the cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. A bit of cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice twist. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Cheese Filled Garlic Knots
Alright, let’s get our hands a little doughy and dive into the fun part—making these cheese filled garlic knots! Trust me, the process is just as satisfying as the finished product. Follow along step-by-step, and we’ll have these knots ready to enjoy in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Give it a good whisk to mix everything evenly. Then, it’s time to add in 3/4 cup of warm water. I like to use my hands to mix it all together, but a wooden spoon works too! Once the dough starts to come together, switch to kneading. You’ll want to knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s nice and smooth. It should feel soft but not sticky—if it’s too tacky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Now comes the magical part! Cover your dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for at least one hour. This is crucial because it allows the yeast to work its magic, making the dough puff up and become airy. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s about doubled in size. Just imagine the aroma filling your kitchen while you wait—so worth it!
Step 3: Shape the Knots
Once your dough has risen, it’s time to get shaping! Start by gently punching down the dough to release some of that air. Now, divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each ball slightly in your hand and place a generous spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese right in the center. Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the cheese, pinching it closed to seal it in. Then, twist and shape the filled dough into a knot. Place each knot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a little space to expand while baking.
Step 4: Bake and Brush
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare for the final touches. In a small bowl, melt 1/4 cup of butter and mix in 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley—this garlic butter is the secret to that rich flavor! Brush the knots generously with this mixture before popping them into the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells absolutely divine. Keep an eye on them; you want a beautiful, buttery color. Once they’re done, let them cool for a minute before diving in. You’re going to love these cheesy bites!
Tips for Success
To make sure your cheese filled garlic knots turn out perfectly every single time, I’ve got some handy tips that I swear by! First off, pay close attention to your dough consistency—it should be soft and slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it sticks to your fingers too much, just sprinkle in a bit more flour until it’s manageable. The kneading process is crucial, so don’t rush it! Give that dough a good 5 minutes of kneading to develop the gluten, which gives your knots that delightful chewiness.
Next, when it comes to baking, keep an eye on those knots! Ovens can vary, so while I recommend 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C), check them a couple of minutes early. You want them beautifully golden, but not burnt! And don’t forget the brushing step; that garlic butter not only adds flavor but also helps create a gorgeous sheen on top.
Lastly, let your creativity shine when it comes to cheese! While shredded mozzarella is classic, feel free to mix it up. Cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can elevate these knots into a whole new realm of deliciousness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now that you know how to whip up these scrumptious cheese filled garlic knots, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated values per knot, based on standard ingredients:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 5g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But hey, enjoying these delicious knots is totally worth it, right? They make for a delightful treat, and knowing the nutritional info can help you enjoy them even more! Dive in and savor every cheesy bite!
FAQ Section
Alright, let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have about these delicious cheese filled garlic knots! I’ve gathered some of the most common inquiries, so you can get the most out of your baking adventure.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can bring a whole new flavor profile to your knots. Get creative!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any garlic knots left (which is rare, trust me!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can pop them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up!
Can I freeze cheese filled garlic knots?
Yes, you can! After they’ve cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Easy peasy!
What can I serve with these knots?
These cheese filled garlic knots are perfect on their own, but they pair beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping! You could also serve them with a fresh salad or alongside pasta dishes. They’re versatile and will surely elevate any meal.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking. This little tip can save you some time on busy days!
What if my knots don’t rise?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and make sure your water isn’t too hot or too cold when mixing. A good rising environment is key—try a warm, draft-free area!
Now that you’re armed with all this knowledge, I can’t wait for you to jump in and make your own cheese filled garlic knots. They’re bound to be a hit, and I’m here cheering you on every step of the way!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cheese filled garlic knots come together in no time, making them perfect for a last-minute snack or appetizer!
- Gooey Goodness: The melted mozzarella inside creates that irresistible, gooey center that everyone loves.
- Heavenly Aroma: Just wait until you smell that garlic butter baking—your kitchen will feel like a cozy Italian bistro!
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative with different cheeses or herbs; there’s no wrong way to make these knots!
- Perfect for Sharing: They’re great for gatherings, parties, or cozy nights in—everyone will want to dig in!
- Comfort Food: There’s something so satisfying about tearing into a warm, cheesy knot—it’s pure comfort food bliss.
- Kid-Friendly: These knots are a hit with kids and adults alike; they’ll love the cheesy surprise!
Trust me, once you try making these cheese filled garlic knots, you’ll be hooked! They’re so delicious and fun to make, you’ll want to whip them up again and again. So grab your ingredients and let’s get knotting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve devoured some of those cheesy, garlicky knots (and trust me, it’s hard to stop!), you might have a few left over. Here’s how to properly store them so they stay as delicious as the day you made them!
First off, let your cheese filled garlic knots cool completely at room temperature. This step is super important because sealing them up while they’re still warm can create moisture, making them soggy. Once they’re cooled, pop them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to store them longer, toss them in the fridge, where they’ll be good for about a week.
Now, if you’re looking to keep them even longer, you can freeze those knots! Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, no need to panic! Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight or pop them straight into the oven.
For reheating, I recommend preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and baking them for about 10-15 minutes. This way, they’ll warm up nicely and regain that lovely crispy exterior without losing their gooey center. You can even brush a little extra garlic butter on top for that fresh-out-of-the-oven flavor! Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overheat.
And there you have it! Enjoy every last cheesy bite, whether fresh out of the oven or reheated. Happy snacking!
Print
Cheese Filled Garlic Knots: 7 Steps to Cheesy Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 knots 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheese filled garlic knots are soft, doughy treats filled with gooey cheese and coated in garlic butter.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide dough into small balls and flatten them.
- Place a spoonful of cheese in the center and fold the dough over.
- Shape into knots and place on a baking sheet.
- Melt butter and mix in garlic and parsley.
- Brush the garlic butter over the knots.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Use any cheese of your choice.
- Serve warm for best taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 knot
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cheese filled garlic knots
