20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara: Pure Comfort Bliss

Name: 20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara: Pure Comfort Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb pizza dough; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup marinara sauce

Posted on November 28, 2025

Posted by Georgina sami

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of homemade garlic knots! There’s just something magical about pulling a warm, buttery knot from the oven, the aroma of garlic wafting through the air—it’s pure comfort. These 20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara are a game changer, perfect for those nights when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I whip these up for family gatherings, and they disappear faster than I can say “mangia!” Seriously, they’re so quick and easy to make, and the best part? You can dip them in marinara sauce for that extra burst of flavor. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your home too!

Ingredients for 20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara

1 lb pizza dough – You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – This adds a rich, buttery flavor that’s simply irresistible.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must for that punchy, aromatic kick.
1 tsp dried parsley – A sprinkle of this herb adds a pop of color and flavor.
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1/4 tsp black pepper – Just a little for that subtle warmth!
1 cup marinara sauce – For dipping! Choose your favorite brand or homemade for the best experience.

How to Prepare 20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it sets the stage for those garlic knots to bake evenly and turn golden brown. You want that oven nice and hot when your knots go in!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Next up, grab that pizza dough and roll it out into a long log. It should be about 12-14 inches in length—just a nice, thick snake of dough! Once you’ve got your log, cut it into 20 equal pieces. I like to use a sharp knife or a bench scraper for clean cuts, but scissors work too if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step 3: Shape the Knots

Now for the fun part—shaping the knots! Take each piece of dough and gently stretch it out into a little rope, about 6 inches long. Then, tie it into a knot, tucking one end under the other. Don’t worry if they don’t look perfect; they’ll taste amazing no matter what!

Step 4: Make the Garlic Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the secret sauce for flavor! Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. The aroma will make your mouth water—trust me!

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Time to bring it all together! Place your shaped knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Now, grab that garlic mixture and brush it generously over each knot. You want every nook and cranny covered! Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly. Once they’re done, let them cool for a minute, then serve warm with that delicious marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers—nutrition can vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are a general guide and not set in stone. That said, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (1 garlic knot):

Calories: 120
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 210mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 3g

These little knots are not just delicious but also a fun addition to your meal, so enjoy them guilt-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up these delightful garlic knots, making them perfect for a last-minute snack or appetizer.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery garlic and fresh parsley creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more.
Versatile Snack: Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them on movie night, or just as a tasty treat, these knots fit any occasion.
Perfect for Dipping: With marinara sauce on the side, each bite is a delightful experience of dipping and savoring!
Fun to Make: Shaping the knots is a fun kitchen activity, whether you’re cooking alone or involving the kids. It’s a great way to bond over food!
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the herbs or add cheese for extra flavor—make this recipe your own!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your garlic knots turn out perfectly every time! Here are my favorite tips for success:

Don’t Skip the Preheat: Seriously, preheating your oven is key! It ensures that your knots bake evenly and get that golden crust we all love.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality butter make a huge difference in flavor. If you can, skip the jarred stuff and go for fresh!
Keep the Dough Covered: If you’re working in batches, cover the dough pieces you haven’t shaped yet with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil to the garlic mixture for an extra flavor boost. Get creative!
Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your knots. They should be golden brown—if they’re getting too dark, take them out a minute early!
Serve Immediately: These knots are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm. If you can, gather your friends or family around for the ultimate tasting experience!

With these tips, I’m sure your garlic knots will be a hit! Happy baking!

Variations of 20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up these garlic knots! Here are some of my favorite variations that can elevate your 20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara to a whole new level:

Cheesy Garlic Knots: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese inside the knots before baking. The melty cheese adds a delicious surprise with every bite!
Herb-Infused Knots: Switch up the dried parsley for other herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary. Each herb brings its unique flavor profile, making it a delightful twist!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, mix in some red pepper flakes into the garlic butter mixture. It’s a simple way to make your knots sizzle!
Garlic Parmesan Topping: After baking, toss the knots in a mix of melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor that’s truly irresistible.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey or balsamic glaze over the knots just before serving for a sweet contrast to the savory garlic flavor. It’s a surprising and delightful combo!
Stuffed Knots: Try stuffing the knots with a small piece of pepperoni, cooked sausage, or even spinach and feta before shaping them for a heartier snack!

These variations are not only easy to make but also allow you to get creative in the kitchen. Have fun experimenting, and don’t hesitate to make these garlic knots truly your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftover garlic knots? No problem! Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy that deliciousness later. First, let them cool completely at room temperature. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the fridge. If you want to enjoy them later than that, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap each knot tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Now, when you’re ready to indulge again, reheating is key to keeping that delightful texture. If you’re using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the garlic knots on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from browning too much. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. This method will help them regain that lovely softness while keeping the outside just a tad crispy.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, but be careful—microwaving can make them a bit chewy. So, if you want to maintain that freshly baked feel, the oven is definitely the way to go! Enjoy your garlic knots just as much as when they were fresh out of the oven!

Share Your Experience

I absolutely love hearing from you, so don’t be shy! If you give these 20-Min Garlic Knots with Marinara a try, I’d love to know how they turned out for you. Did you add your own twist or stick to the classic recipe? Maybe you experimented with different herbs or made them extra cheesy? Whatever your experience, please share it in the comments below! Your feedback not only makes my day but also helps others who are eager to dive into this deliciousness.

And if you enjoyed the recipe, don’t forget to rate it! Your ratings really help spread the word about these tasty little bites. So, let’s connect and inspire each other in the kitchen. I can’t wait to read your stories and see your variations—happy cooking!