Garlic Knots with Herb Butter

Garlic Knots with Herb Butter are a beloved bakery-style side that bring irresistible aroma, softness, and flavor to the table. Made from tender dough twisted into knots, baked until golden, and brushed generously with melted butter infused with garlic and fresh herbs, these knots are pure comfort food.

Popular in Italian-American cuisine, garlic knots are often served with pasta, pizza, or marinara sauce, but they’re just as enjoyable on their own. This homemade version delivers everything you love about restaurant garlic knots—soft interiors, crisp edges, and rich garlicky butter—right from your own oven.

Why I Love This Recipe

The moment the garlic knots come out of the oven, the aroma of butter, garlic, and herbs fills the kitchen and instantly makes everything feel cozy. I love how soft and fluffy they are on the inside, with just a hint of crispness on the outside, and how the herb butter soaks into every knot. It’s a simple recipe, but it has that bakery-style magic that makes any meal feel special—whether it’s a family dinner, a pasta night, or a casual gathering with friends.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Soft, fluffy texture with buttery garlic flavor
• Perfect side for pasta, pizza, or soups
• Easy to make at home with simple ingredients
• Great for family dinners and parties
• Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 18–22 minutes

Total Time: About 1 hour (including rise time)

Servings: 10–12 garlic knots
Calories: Approximately 210 calories per serving

Course: Side Dish / Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Garlic Knots:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Herb Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare and knead the dough.
2. Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
3. Shape dough into knots.
4. Bake until golden.
5. Brush generously with garlic herb butter.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough
Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Knead until a soft, smooth dough forms.

Step 3: First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 30–40 minutes until doubled.

Step 4: Shape the Knots
Divide dough into strips, tie each into a loose knot, and place on a baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 6: Prepare Herb Butter
Mix melted butter with garlic, herbs, and salt.

Step 7: Brush and Serve
Brush hot garlic knots generously with herb butter and serve warm.

How to Serve

Serve Garlic Knots warm with marinara sauce for dipping, alongside pasta dishes, pizzas, or soups. They’re also perfect as a standalone appetizer for gatherings.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t over-knead the dough
• Brush butter while knots are hot for maximum flavor
• Use fresh garlic for best aroma
• Add grated Parmesan for extra richness
• Serve fresh for the softest texture

Variations

Cheesy Garlic Knots: Sprinkle grated Parmesan after baking.
Whole Wheat Version: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Spicy Knots: Add red pepper flakes to herb butter.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter.
Stuffed Knots: Add small cubes of mozzarella inside each knot.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:
Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:
Freeze baked garlic knots for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warm.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush

Conclusion

Garlic Knots with Herb Butter are a comforting, flavorful addition to any meal. With their soft interior, golden crust, and rich garlic-butter coating, they’re impossible to resist. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is one you’ll want to bake again and again.