Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe

Let me tell you, there are few things in life that bring as much simple joy as warm, garlicky, cheesy bread. And when that bread is transformed into adorable, bite-sized knots cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer? Well, that’s just pure magic. My family, especially my notoriously picky eaters, absolutely devoured these Air Fryer Garlic Knots the first time I made them. The aroma of garlic and butter wafting from the kitchen was irresistible, and the first bite – crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, bursting with flavor – was an instant hit. Forget complicated recipes and hours in the kitchen; these garlic knots are incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are ready in under 20 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, a comforting side dish to complement your favorite pasta, or just a fun and delicious snack, these Air Fryer Garlic Knots are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the irresistible charm of these little knots of garlicky goodness – you won’t be able to stop at just one! This guide will walk you through every step, from ingredients to serving suggestions, ensuring your air fryer garlic knot journey is a resounding success.

Ingredients: Five Simple Wonders

The beauty of these Air Fryer Garlic Knots lies in their simplicity. You only need five core ingredients to create this flavorful masterpiece, making it a perfect last-minute recipe when you’re short on time but craving something utterly delicious. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why they are essential for achieving that perfect garlic knot.

• Pizza Dough: The foundation of our garlic knots, pizza dough provides the perfect texture – chewy on the inside and capable of crisping up beautifully in the air fryer. You have options when it comes to pizza dough:
  • Store-bought Pizza Dough (Refrigerated or Frozen): This is the ultimate convenience and our recommended choice for speed and ease. Refrigerated dough found in the grocery store’s refrigerated section (often near the bakery or dairy section) is ready to use after a brief warm-up period. Frozen pizza dough needs to be thawed according to package directions before use. Both types work wonderfully and save you significant time.
  • Homemade Pizza Dough: For the adventurous baker or those who prefer a truly from-scratch approach, homemade pizza dough elevates these garlic knots to another level. While it requires more time and effort, the fresh, homemade flavor is undeniably superior. If you choose to make your own dough, ensure it’s a recipe that yields a soft and pliable dough suitable for knots. There are countless recipes online for classic pizza dough, Neapolitan dough, or even no-knead variations.
  • Pre-made Pizza Crusts (Sheets): While less traditional for knots, pre-made pizza crust sheets (not the pre-baked kind, but the raw dough sheets) can also be used. Simply unroll and cut them into strips. They tend to be thinner than pizza dough balls, so your knots might be slightly flatter and crispier.
• Melted Butter: Butter is the soul of these garlic knots, lending richness, flavor, and that irresistible golden-brown crust. Using melted butter ensures even coating and penetration into the dough, resulting in a moist and flavorful interior. For the best flavor, use:
  • Unsalted Butter: This gives you complete control over the salt content of your garlic knots. You can always add a pinch of salt to the garlic butter mixture if needed.
  • Salted Butter: If using salted butter, be mindful of the salt content, especially if your pizza dough is also already salted. You may want to reduce or omit any additional salt in the garlic butter mixture.
  • Clarified Butter or Ghee: For an even richer flavor and slightly higher smoke point (though not strictly necessary for air frying at 350°F), you can use clarified butter or ghee. These are essentially butter with the milk solids removed, resulting in a pure butterfat that browns beautifully.
• Minced Garlic: The star of the show, garlic infuses these knots with its pungent and savory aroma and flavor. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the most intense and authentic garlic flavor.
  • Fresh Garlic: Using fresh garlic cloves that you mince yourself will give you the best and most potent garlic flavor. Aim for about 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, which is typically 2-3 medium cloves.
  • Garlic Paste: Garlic paste from a tube is a convenient alternative when you’re short on time or don’t have fresh garlic on hand. It offers a concentrated garlic flavor and is readily available in most grocery stores. Use about 1-1.5 teaspoons of garlic paste as a substitute for fresh minced garlic.
  • Garlic Powder (Emergency Backup): While not ideal, in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. However, the flavor will be less pronounced and nuanced compared to fresh or paste. Start with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and adjust to taste. For better results with garlic powder, you could consider blooming it in the melted butter for a few minutes over low heat before brushing the knots.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of dried herbs adds a classic Italian touch and complements the garlic and Parmesan perfectly. Italian seasoning typically includes a mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.
  • Pre-mixed Italian Seasoning: Convenient and readily available, pre-mixed Italian seasoning blends are the easiest option.
  • Homemade Italian Seasoning Blend: If you prefer to customize your flavors or have individual dried herbs on hand, you can easily create your own Italian seasoning blend. Combine equal parts of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Feel free to adjust the ratios to your liking. You could also add a pinch of dried sage or fennel seeds for extra depth.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty, and savory finish to the garlic knots. It melts beautifully in the air fryer, creating a slightly crispy and cheesy topping.
  • Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended. It melts more smoothly and has a richer, more complex flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
  • Pre-shredded Parmesan: Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese is a convenient option, especially for busy cooks. While it may not melt quite as smoothly as freshly grated, it still provides a delicious cheesy topping.
  • Parmesan Alternatives (for flavor variations): For a slightly different flavor profile, you could experiment with other hard Italian cheeses like Pecorino Romano (saltier and sharper) or Grana Padano (milder and nuttier).

Instructions: Knotting Your Way to Flavor

Making these Air Fryer Garlic Knots is surprisingly simple and fun! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfect knots every time:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer to 350°F (175°C): Preheating your air fryer is crucial for even cooking and ensuring crispy knots. Most air fryers preheat quickly, usually within 3-5 minutes. Refer to your air fryer’s manual for specific preheating instructions if needed. Setting the temperature to 350°F provides the ideal balance of cooking the dough through while achieving a golden-brown exterior without burning.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small, microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine the ¼ cup of melted butter and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.
   • Microwave Method: Microwave the butter for 30-45 seconds, or until fully melted. Then, stir in the minced garlic.
   • Stovetop Method: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
   • Flavor Infusion Tip: For a more intense garlic flavor, you can gently sauté the minced garlic in the melted butter over low heat for a few minutes before proceeding. This infuses the butter with a richer garlic essence.
3. Roll Out and Cut the Pizza Dough: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Remove the pizza dough from its packaging and place it on the floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a rectangular shape, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. The exact dimensions aren’t critical, but aim for a relatively even thickness for consistent cooking.
   • Dough Handling Tip: If using refrigerated dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling. This will make it more pliable and easier to work with. If the dough is too sticky, lightly dust your hands and the work surface with more flour.
   • Cutting into Strips: Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the rolled-out dough into long strips, about ¾ to 1 inch wide. The length of the strips will depend on how large you want your knots to be. Strips around 6-8 inches long work well for bite-sized knots.
4. Tie the Dough Strips into Knots: Take one dough strip and gently tie it into a knot, just like you would tie a shoelace. Don’t make the knots too tight, as the dough will expand slightly during cooking. Tuck the ends of the knot underneath to create a neat and rounded shape.
   • Knotting Technique Tip: If you find it challenging to tie knots, you can also simply twist the dough strips and then coil them into a spiral shape. This will still create a visually appealing and delicious result.
5. Arrange Knots in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the tied garlic knots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can prevent proper air circulation and result in unevenly cooked knots. You may need to cook the knots in batches depending on the size of your air fryer basket.
   • Basket Preparation Tip (Optional): While not always necessary, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray (non-aerosol oil sprayer recommended) to prevent sticking, especially if your air fryer is prone to sticking. Parchment paper liners designed for air fryers can also be used for easier cleanup, but ensure they are perforated to allow for proper air circulation.
6. Coat with Garlic Butter: Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the garlic butter mixture all over the tops and sides of the knots in the air fryer basket. Ensure each knot is well coated for maximum flavor and golden-brown color. Reserve any remaining garlic butter for brushing after cooking, if desired, for extra flavor boost.
7. Sprinkle with Italian Seasoning and Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the garlic butter-coated knots. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese to your preference.
8. Air Fry for 6-8 Minutes: Place the air fryer basket into the preheated air fryer and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes, or until the garlic knots are golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your knots.
   • Checking for Doneness Tip: The garlic knots are done when they are golden brown on the outside and feel light and airy when gently pressed. You can also check the internal temperature with a food thermometer; it should reach at least 200°F (93°C) to ensure the dough is fully cooked.
   • Flipping (Optional but Recommended for Even Browning): For more even browning, you can gently flip the garlic knots halfway through the cooking time (around 3-4 minutes). This ensures both sides are equally golden and crispy.
9. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, carefully remove the Air Fryer Garlic Knots from the air fryer basket. They are best served immediately while they are warm, soft, and cheesy. You can brush them with any remaining garlic butter and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for garnish, if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts: A Treat in Moderation

While incredibly delicious, it’s important to be mindful of the nutritional content of these Air Fryer Garlic Knots, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and the exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used (brand of pizza dough, type of butter, etc.) and portion sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 2 garlic knots

Estimated Nutrition Facts Per Serving (approximate):

• Calories: 250-350 kcal (depending on dough and butter richness)
• Fat: 12-18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7-10g
• Cholesterol: 30-45mg
• Sodium: 350-500mg (depending on dough and cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugar: 2-4g
• Protein: 7-10g

Important Notes:

• These are approximate values and can vary.
• Serving size is an estimate and can be adjusted.
• Consider using whole wheat pizza dough to increase fiber content slightly.
• Use reduced-fat butter or margarine to lower fat content (may affect flavor and texture slightly).
• Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Delight

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its speed and simplicity. From start to finish, you’ll have delicious Air Fryer Garlic Knots on the table in under 20 minutes!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • This includes: Gathering ingredients, making garlic butter, rolling out and cutting dough, tying knots.
• Cook Time: 9 minutes
  • Air frying time in the air fryer.
• Total Time: 19 minutes
  • The total time from start to finish.

This quick preparation time makes these garlic knots perfect for:

• Weeknight Dinners: A fast and satisfying side dish to complement your meal.
• Last-Minute Appetizers: Impress your guests with minimal effort.
• Snack Cravings: Satisfy your carb and garlic cravings quickly and easily.
• Kid-Friendly Cooking: Fun and easy for kids to help with (with adult supervision).

How to Serve: Endless Delicious Possibilities

Air Fryer Garlic Knots are incredibly versatile and can be served in countless ways. Their delicious flavor and appealing texture make them a welcome addition to any meal or gathering. Here are some popular and creative serving suggestions:

As an Appetizer:

• Classic Appetizer Platter: Arrange warm garlic knots on a platter with a bowl of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or cheese sauce for dipping. Add some fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery sticks, and cherry tomatoes for a balanced appetizer spread.
• Party Snack: Perfect for game days, movie nights, birthday parties, or any casual get-together. Serve them alongside other finger foods like chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, and mini pizzas for a crowd-pleasing party spread.
• Elegant Hors d’oeuvre: For a slightly more upscale presentation, arrange garlic knots on a serving tray lined with parchment paper and garnish with fresh parsley or basil sprigs. Serve with a gourmet dipping sauce like pesto aioli or roasted red pepper dip.

As a Side Dish:

• Pasta Night Essential: The perfect accompaniment to any pasta dish, from spaghetti and meatballs to lasagna and creamy Alfredo. Garlic knots are ideal for soaking up extra sauce and adding a satisfying carb element to your pasta meal.
• Pizza’s Best Friend: Naturally, garlic knots are a fantastic side dish to serve with pizza. They complement the flavors of pizza beautifully and provide a delightful textural contrast.
• Soup and Salad Companion: Add warmth and flavor to your soup or salad meal by serving garlic knots on the side. They are especially delicious with hearty soups like tomato soup, minestrone, or French onion soup.
• Grilled Dishes: Serve garlic knots alongside grilled chicken, steak, or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Their garlicky flavor pairs well with smoky grilled flavors.

As a Main Course (with dipping sauces):

• Dipping Sauce Feast: Make garlic knots the star of the show by serving them with a variety of delicious dipping sauces. Offer a selection of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, cheese sauce, pesto aioli, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo. Let everyone customize their dipping experience.
• “Breadsticks” for Dinner: Sometimes, simple is best. Serve a generous portion of garlic knots as a light and fun main course, accompanied by a large salad and your favorite dipping sauces. This is a great option for a casual weeknight dinner or a kid-friendly meal.

Dipping Sauce Ideas:

• Marinara Sauce: A classic and essential dipping sauce for garlic knots.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy and tangy favorite that complements the garlic and cheese.
• Cheese Sauce: Warm and cheesy, perfect for an extra indulgent treat. Try nacho cheese sauce, cheddar cheese sauce, or even a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce.
• Pesto Aioli: A sophisticated and flavorful dipping sauce made with pesto and mayonnaise.
• Garlic Aioli: Amplify the garlic flavor with a creamy garlic aioli.
• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy option that provides a nice contrast to the savory garlic knots.
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Add a kick of heat with a sriracha mayo dipping sauce.
• Roasted Red Pepper Dip: A smoky and slightly sweet dip that complements the garlic and cheese.

Additional Tips for Garlic Knot Perfection

Want to take your Air Fryer Garlic Knots to the next level? Here are five helpful tips to ensure you achieve garlic knot perfection every time:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food. Overcrowding the basket restricts airflow, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy knots. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each knot has enough space for proper air circulation. Aim for a single layer of knots in the basket.
2. Adjust Garlic Butter to Your Taste: The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, but you can easily adjust this to your personal preference. If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the butter mixture. For a milder garlic flavor, reduce the amount slightly. You can also experiment with roasted garlic for a sweeter and mellower garlic flavor.
3. Experiment with Different Cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses to create different flavor profiles. Try using a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella for extra cheesy knots. Asiago cheese adds a nutty and slightly sharp flavor. For a spicier kick, try adding some shredded pepper jack cheese. You can even use a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese after cooking for a salty and tangy finish.
4. Add Extra Flavor Boosters: Beyond Italian seasoning, you can add other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of your garlic knots. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat. Dried oregano or basil can be added to the Italian seasoning blend for a more pronounced herb flavor. For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika to the garlic butter. Freshly chopped parsley or chives can be sprinkled over the cooked knots for a fresh and vibrant garnish.
5. Reheat Garlic Knots to Restore Crispness: If you have leftover garlic knots, you can easily reheat them in the air fryer to restore their crispness. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and air fry the leftover knots for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving leftover garlic knots, as they will become soggy. Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes is also a good option.

FAQ: Your Burning Garlic Knot Questions Answered

Got questions about making Air Fryer Garlic Knots? We’ve got you covered! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you on your garlic knot journey:

Q1: Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough will elevate the flavor and texture of your garlic knots even further. Use your favorite pizza dough recipe, or find a reliable recipe online. Ensure the dough is soft and pliable enough for rolling and knotting. Homemade dough often results in slightly fluffier and more flavorful knots.

Q2: Can I freeze Air Fryer Garlic Knots?

A: Yes, you can freeze cooked Air Fryer Garlic Knots for longer storage. Allow the knots to cool completely after cooking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, air fry directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Freezing may slightly alter the texture, but they will still be delicious.

Q3: How should I store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Knots?

A: Store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Refrigeration is recommended for longer storage, especially in warmer climates. Reheat them in the air fryer, oven, or toaster oven to restore crispness before serving.

Q4: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? What can I substitute?

A: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can easily create a substitute using individual dried herbs. Combine equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. You can also add a pinch of dried rosemary or marjoram if you have them. If you only have one or two of these herbs, use what you have – oregano and basil are the most essential for a classic Italian flavor.

Q5: Can I make these garlic knots ahead of time?

A: While Air Fryer Garlic Knots are best served fresh and warm, you can prepare some components ahead of time to save time on the day of serving. You can make the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. You can also roll out and cut the pizza dough into strips and store them (covered to prevent drying out) in the refrigerator for a few hours before knotting and cooking. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to assemble and air fry the knots shortly before serving.

With these tips, tricks, and answers to common questions, you’re now fully equipped to create incredibly delicious Air Fryer Garlic Knots that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to enjoy the irresistible aroma and flavor of these easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treats!

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