Name: Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon active-dry yeast; 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; toppings: freshly-grated Parmesan cheese, flaky sea salt; 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon finely-chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

If you love soft, buttery bread with a punch of garlic and a hint of Parmesan, you're going to adore this Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe. They’re the perfect little bites to bake up for your next cozy night in or when you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

A close-up view of a white plate filled with golden brown garlic knots, each knot showing a shiny, slightly glossy surface topped with small bits of chopped green parsley and a sprinkling of coarse salt or grated cheese. One garlic knot is lifted above the plate, held by a woman's hand, revealing a soft and fluffy white inside with a light, airy texture. The knots appear soft and pillowy with a warm, inviting color contrast between the browned outside and the pale inside. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, with part of a yellow cloth visible in the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, these garlic knots have become a staple in my kitchen because they’re so comforting and surprisingly easy to make. The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan cheese just hits all the right notes!

Soft & Buttery: Made with a rich yeast dough that's tender and fluffy every time.
Flavor Packed: Garlic powder in the dough plus a luscious garlic butter topping with fresh Parmesan.
Quick Rise: You’ll love how the dough only takes about 30 minutes total to rise before baking.
Perfect Party Food: These knots are great for sharing and pair wonderfully with any Italian meal.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you get started, gather these ingredients. A few tips: use fresh active-dry yeast and good-quality Parmesan for the best flavor, and don’t skip the honey in the dough—it helps activate the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of warm water, a small white ceramic bowl of melted golden butter, a small white ceramic bowl of creamy milk, a small white ceramic bowl of golden honey, a small mound of fine white all-purpose flour, a teaspoon of fine sea salt in a small white ceramic bowl, a small white ceramic bowl with pale yellow garlic powder, three whole uncracked brown eggs, a bunch of finely chopped fresh parsley on a white ceramic plate, a small white ceramic bowl of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a small white ceramic bowl of flaky sea salt, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Water: The base liquid to activate the yeast and hydrate the dough.
Melted Butter: Adds richness and tenderness right in the dough.
Milk: Gives the garlic knots a soft, slightly creamy texture.
Honey: Feeds the yeast and subtly sweetens the dough.
Active-dry Yeast: Essential for that fluffy, airy rise.
All-purpose Flour: The structure-builder for your knots, providing a perfect bite.
Fine Sea Salt: Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s taste.
Garlic Powder: Infuses the dough with that classic garlicky aroma.
Freshly-Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish on top.
Flaky Sea Salt: Sprinkled on for a crunchy burst of saltiness.
Salted Butter (for garlic butter): For brushing the knots with rich, melted goodness.
Fresh Parsley: Brightens the garlic butter with a fresh herbal note.
Garlic Powder (for garlic butter): Amplifies that luscious garlic flavor.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about the Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe is how easy it is to make these buttery, garlicky treats your own. Whether you like things extra cheesy, a little spicy, or dairy-free, there’s a variation to suit your taste buds.

Extra Cheesy Twist: I love adding shredded mozzarella or provolone alongside the Parmesan for a gooey, melty surprise inside each knot. It’s like a little cheese pull party every time you take a bite!
Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can replace the parsley in the garlic butter for a fragrant, earthy note. One rainy evening, rosemary made these feel so cozy and special.
Vegan Version: Swap the butter for vegan margarine and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor without dairy — perfect for plant-based friends.
Spicy Garlic Knots: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter and sprinkle a bit on top after baking for a subtle or punchy heat, depending on how much you like. I always keep a batch on hand for game day!
Seasonal Spin: During fall, a little pumpkin spice or sage mixed into the dough brings a warm seasonal vibe that pairs wonderfully with the garlic and butter.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe

A close-up view of a small round bread roll made of connected roll segments forming a flower shape. The bread is golden brown on top with a shiny glaze that reflects light, sprinkled with small green herbs and coarse salt crystals. A woman's hand is gently holding the bread from the right side, showing the soft and fluffy texture. The background has a clean white marbled texture that contrasts with the warm tones of the bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Warm and Cozy Liquids

Start by stirring together water, melted butter, milk, and honey in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat this mixture gently in the microwave for about a minute, then keep microwaving in 15 second bursts until the temperature reaches 110°F — warm to the touch but not hot. This perfect warmth wakes the yeast without burning it, setting the stage for those soft, fluffy knots.

Step 2: Wake Up the Yeast

Pour the warmed liquid into your stand mixer bowl and sprinkle yeast evenly on top. Give it a quick stir with a fork and let it rest for 5 minutes. You’ll know the yeast is lively when it forms a foamy layer — that’s the magic bubble action you want for a great rise.

Step 3: Mix Your Dough

Add 3 ½ cups of flour, salt, and garlic powder, then use your dough hook on medium-low. If the dough is sticky and clinging to the bowl, sprinkle in more flour — up to 4 cups total — one-quarter cup at a time. The dough should pull away from the sides but stay slightly tacky. Keep mixing for 4 to 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Then, shape it into a ball and transfer to a greased bowl.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise for 15 minutes. This quick rise softens the dough and activates the yeast’s full potential, making it easier to shape those perfect knots.

Step 5: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Having this ready will make baking smooth and hassle-free once your dough is shaped.

Step 6: Shape the Garlic Knots

Gently roll your dough into a 16-inch log with an even thickness for consistent baking. Cut the log into 15 or 16 pieces, then roll each piece into an 8-inch rope. Tie each rope into a knot — tucking the ends under for a neater look, or leaving them out for rustic charm. Arrange on your baking sheet, cover loosely with a kitchen towel, and let rise for another 15 minutes. This second rise helps the knots gain a light, airy texture.

Step 7: Bake and Butter Up

Pop your knots into the hot oven for 15 minutes, until they turn a lovely golden brown. While they bake, whisk together melted butter, chopped parsley, and garlic powder for the flavorful garlic butter. As soon as they come out, brush the knots generously with this butter mixture and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and flaky sea salt for that irresistible finishing touch.

Step 8: Taste and Enjoy!

Serve your garlic knots warm for the best experience — soft, fragrant, and meltingly buttery. They’re perfect alongside pasta, soup, or just on their own as a scrumptious snack. Trust me, these are sure to disappear fast!

Top Tip

Mastering the perfect garlic knot can be easier than you think—these tips come straight from my kitchen to yours, making sure your Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe come out soft, flavorful, and irresistible every time.

Liquid Temperature Matters: Always keep your water, milk, butter, and honey mixture at around 110°F to activate the yeast without killing it. I use a quick touch test alongside a thermometer to get it just right.
Flour Adjustment: Don’t shy away from adding flour gradually if your dough feels too sticky. I’ve found that working between 3 ½ and 4 cups allows the dough to remain soft yet manageable.
Let the Dough Rest Twice: Those two 15-minute rises are crucial. They give the knots their pillowy texture, so I resist the temptation to rush this step.
Brush Immediately: Applying the garlic butter right after baking locks in the rich buttery flavor and melts the Parmesan perfectly. Waiting even a few minutes can lessen that magical coating.

How to Serve Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe

Seven light brown dough knots with a soft, slightly rough texture are placed on a white marbled surface. The knots are round, twisted in various small loops and folds. Near the upper left corner, a clear glass jar filled with white flour sits with a wooden spoon inside. A blue and white checkered cloth lies partially folded next to the jar. The scene is bright with natural light, highlighting the pale dough and white flour dust on the marble. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your garlic knots by experimenting with garnishes. While freshly grated Parmesan and flaky sea salt are classic, I love adding a sprinkle of extra finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A tiny dusting of red pepper flakes can bring a subtle kick if you’re feeling adventurous. For an extra aromatic boost, try a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of lemon zest to brighten up the butter’s richness.

Side Dishes

Garlic knots make a stunning starter or side that pairs perfectly with Italian classics. Serve alongside a hearty bowl of marinara or arrabbiata sauce for dipping. They also complement dishes like creamy tomato basil soup, Caesar salad, or a fresh Caprese salad. For a truly indulgent spread, bring them out with a rich lasagna or a steaming plate of spaghetti aglio e olio.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover garlic knots (they’re often too good to resist!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them soft, I recommend placing a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the knots.

Freezing

You can freeze your garlic knots before or after baking. To freeze unbaked dough knots, arrange them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw and bake as usual. For baked knots, freeze them in a single layer wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, also for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To bring your garlic knots back to life, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the knots on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning, warming them for about 8-10 minutes until heated through. You can brush a little extra melted garlic butter on top after reheating for that fresh-baked taste and aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute bread flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe?

Absolutely! Bread flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour to give your garlic knots a chewier texture and a bit more structure, but stick to the 3 ½ to 4 cups range to avoid a tough dough.

What if my dough is too sticky or too dry?

If it’s too sticky, add flour a little at a time, up to the maximum 4 cups, until it’s manageable but still slightly sticky. If it feels dry, your liquid may have been a bit low or the flour too much—try balancing next time by measuring ingredients carefully and adjusting flour gradually.

Can I add fresh garlic to the garlic butter?

Yes! If you love a stronger garlic punch, adding a pinch of minced fresh garlic to the melted butter works wonderfully. Just mix it right before brushing so the fresh garlic flavor stays bright and doesn’t cook down too much.

How long do garlic knots keep fresh after baking?

They are best enjoyed the day they’re baked for that perfect soft texture and fresh garlic aroma. Stored properly at room temperature, they stay good for up to 2 days but start to lose that fresh-baked appeal after that.

Final Thoughts

Making Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Butter Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience—there’s something truly comforting about pulling warm, buttery knots fresh from your oven. Whether you’re serving them up for a cozy dinner, a fun party appetizer, or just because you crave a delicious bite, taking the time to make these from scratch brings a joy that store-bought just can’t match. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the touch of dough, and share these little garlicky treasures with friends and family. Happy baking!