I’m always on the lookout for recipes that can make a big impression with minimal effort, and these Air Fryer Garlic Knots definitely fit the bill! They’re soft, golden, and packed with a rich garlic flavor that’s irresistible. The air fryer makes them incredibly easy to prepare while still achieving that perfect crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your dinner or a delicious snack to munch on, these garlic knots are the answer.
If you’re tired of waiting for dough to rise or the hassle of traditional baking, the air fryer will become your new best friend. In just minutes, you’ll have freshly made garlic knots that everyone will rave about. Perfectly seasoned and golden-brown, these knots are a crowd-pleaser, and they require just a few simple ingredients. Let’s get into what you’ll need to make these little bites of heaven.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pizza dough: This is the base for your garlic knots. You can use store-bought pizza dough, which makes the recipe quick and easy, or you can make your own if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous. Either way, you’ll end up with a wonderfully soft texture that holds up perfectly when twisted into knots.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor to these knots. When cooked in the butter, it becomes aromatic and gives a rich depth to the overall taste. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it evenly coats the knots, and you’ll have that bold garlic flavor in every bite.
Butter: Butter helps create the golden, crispy exterior of the garlic knots. It also provides a rich, smooth base for the garlic and seasonings. You’ll melt the butter and toss the knots in it, which ensures that they’re both flavorful and crispy.
Olive oil: A little olive oil brushed on the knots before air frying adds extra crispiness while also enhancing the flavor. It’s a simple ingredient that makes a noticeable difference, giving the knots that perfect golden hue.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, savory flavor that complements the garlic and butter perfectly. It also gives the garlic knots an extra layer of flavor and texture as it melts into the dough while air frying.
Dried oregano: Dried oregano is an essential herb that gives these garlic knots a slightly earthy, savory note. It pairs wonderfully with the garlic and butter, creating a more complex and well-rounded flavor.
Salt: A pinch of salt is all you need to enhance the natural flavors of the dough, garlic, and butter. Don’t skip this step, as it’s key to balancing all the other ingredients.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness to the garlic knots. It’s sprinkled on top after they’re done, bringing a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the knots.
Ingredients List
- 1 package of pizza dough (about 1 lb.)
- 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Knots
Step 1: Prepare the dough
Start by rolling out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips about 1 inch wide. Each strip will be twisted into a knot, so make sure they’re of equal size for even cooking.
Step 2: Form the knots
Take each strip of dough and tie it into a knot, tucking the ends underneath to secure the shape. If you want a uniform look, feel free to make them all the same size or get creative with different shapes! Once they’re all tied, place the knots on a plate or tray and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the garlic butter mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, and salt. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Brush the knots with garlic butter
Place your dough knots in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Use a brush to coat each knot generously with the garlic butter mixture. Be sure to drizzle some on the sides and tops to infuse every bite with that delicious garlic flavor.
Step 5: Air fry the garlic knots
Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the garlic knots for 8-10 minutes or until they’re golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t overcook. Once they’re done, remove them from the air fryer.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
After removing the knots from the air fryer, immediately sprinkle them with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy the buttery, garlicky goodness!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use fresh pizza dough: For the best results, use fresh dough rather than refrigerated dough. Fresh dough will rise and cook better, giving your garlic knots a softer texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: For even cooking, make sure the knots are spread out in the air fryer basket. If needed, cook them in batches to avoid steaming.
- Add more garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two. The more garlic, the better!
- Try different toppings: Switch things up by adding other toppings like red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pizza dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the dough thoroughly before using it. If it’s too stiff, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you begin.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for about 3-4 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Can I make these garlic knots without an air fryer?
Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.