If you’re craving irresistibly soft, buttery, and golden knots packed with garlicky flavor, Air Fryer Garlic Knots are about to become your new obsession. Ready in under 15 minutes, this recipe transforms simple pizza dough into the fluffiest, most addictive appetizer or side you could dream of—think pizzeria-quality bread knots, but fresher, faster, and much easier to make at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a batch of Air Fryer Garlic Knots ready in no time.
- Major Flavor Payoff: Fresh garlic, real butter, and a sprinkle of parmesan bring a mouthwatering punch to every bite.
- Perfectly Golden Every Time: The air fryer delivers a gorgeous, even bake and unbeatable texture—soft on the inside, crisp on the outside.
- Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Serve these as an appetizer, snack, or the ultimate side for pizza night—watch them disappear!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how each simple ingredient works hard to deliver big flavor and that signature pillowy texture in these Air Fryer Garlic Knots. Here’s how each one helps create that irresistible, golden bite you can’t get enough of:
- Refrigerated pizza dough (13 ounce can): The ultimate shortcut for super-soft knots and layers, ready to go in minutes.
- Butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Makes every bite rich and decadent—don’t skimp, it’s worth it!
- Fresh garlic (3 cloves, finely minced): Bold garlicky flavor is a must; freshly minced makes the difference.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon): Adds pops of color and a hint of herby brightness.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, freshly grated): For that classic, salty finish and a hint of nutty richness.
- Coarse kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Boosts all the flavors and gives the knots just the right savory touch.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle, peppery warmth—totally up to your taste buds.
Variations
The beauty of Air Fryer Garlic Knots is how easily you can tailor them to suit your cravings. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters or feeling creative, don’t be afraid to experiment—these ideas will get you started!
- Cheesy Garlic Knots: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella inside or on top for extra melty goodness.
- Herb Explosion: Swap in Italian seasoning, basil, or chives for a herby flavor twist that keeps things exciting.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a gentle, warming heat.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter and skip the cheese, or substitute with your favorite vegan cheese.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Knots
Step 1: Prep the Butter and Garlic
While your air fryer preheats to 400°F (that hot air means golden perfection!), stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, and half the fresh parsley in a small bowl. This aromatic mixture is pure magic—set it aside, because you’ll use it twice.
Step 2: Slice, Fold, & Knot the Dough
Keep your pizza dough rolled up and slice it into 12 equal strips. Unroll each strip, then fold it lengthwise so it’s double thickness—this is the secret to gorgeous, pull-apart layers. Brush with your garlic butter, then tie each strip into a knot (don’t worry if they’re a bit rustic!) and set them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and a little black pepper if you want extra oomph.
Step 3: Air Fry in Batches
Arrange 5–6 knots in your preheated air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each for the air to circulate (this makes them perfectly crisp). Air fry for about 6–7 minutes, until golden brown and just cooked through—keep an eye on them so they stay soft, not dry.
Step 4: Brush, Sprinkle & Serve
As soon as the knots come out, brush with extra melted butter and shower with freshly grated parmesan and the remaining parsley. Serve them piping hot for full flavor impact, with warm marinara or ranch for dipping.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Garlic Knots
- Resist Overcrowding: Air frying in small batches ensures each knot gets perfectly crisp and golden—don’t try to fit them all at once!
- Layer Up the Dough: Folding the dough strips over before knotting is what creates those magical, soft “pull-apart” layers everyone loves.
- Right Out of the Fryer: Brush on butter and sprinkle parmesan the moment the knots finish cooking so they soak up all the flavor.
- Homemade Dough Upgrade: If you love baking, try these with homemade pizza dough for that fresh-baked aroma (and major bragging rights).
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Knots
Garnishes
For an extra hit of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle more freshly chopped parsley, a little extra parmesan, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes over your Air Fryer Garlic Knots just before serving. The bright green and salty cheese make every bite pop!
Side Dishes
These knots play beautifully alongside pasta dishes (think spaghetti and meatballs), a big leafy salad, or, of course, your favorite pizza. They’re also right at home with hearty soups and stews on chilly nights—dunk and enjoy.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange knots in a bread basket lined with a pretty napkin for a family-style dinner, or stack them around a bubbling bowl of marinara for a party appetizer display that looks as good as it tastes. For a fun twist, serve them skewered on rosemary sprigs or pile high on a wooden board for a rustic vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Knots in an airtight container or a zip-top bag in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re great for snacking or quick lunches throughout the week!
Freezing
Want to have homemade garlic knots on hand anytime? Freeze fully cooled knots in a zip-top bag—just remember to squeeze out as much air as possible. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for about 2 months.
Reheating
Pop refrigerated or thawed knots back into the air fryer at 350°F for 1–2 minutes to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven texture. If you’re short on time, a quick microwave zap will do, but the air fryer really revives that soft-and-crispy magic.
FAQs
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Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated dough?
Absolutely! Homemade dough brings even more flavor and a wonderful chewy texture to your Air Fryer Garlic Knots. Just make sure it’s room temperature before shaping, and keep the overall process the same.
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What’s the best way to prevent the knots from sticking in the air fryer?
Lightly spritz the air fryer basket with oil spray or use a perforated parchment liner before adding the knots. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup super easy.
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Why did my garlic knots turn out too dry inside?
Overbaking is usually the culprit—air fry until just golden and cooked through (6–7 minutes for most air fryers). For extra moisture, don’t skip that final brush of butter as they come out!
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Can I make these Air Fryer Garlic Knots ahead for a party?
Definitely! Make and shape the knots up to a day ahead and refrigerate them unbaked; just let them sit at room temp while your air fryer preheats. Or, rewarm cooked knots right before serving for that fresh taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about pulling apart a freshly cooked Air Fryer Garlic Knot—the aroma, the buttery sheen, that soft bite. Whether you’re new to homemade bread or a seasoned dough-shaper, these knots will win you—and anyone lucky enough to share them—over at first bite. I can’t wait for you to try them!
Print
Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 12 knots 1x
- Category: Air Frying
- Method: Air Frying
Description
These Air Fryer Garlic Knots are a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious homemade bread side dish. Made with refrigerated pizza dough, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, these knots are perfect for dipping in marinara or ranch sauce.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 13 ounce can refrigerated pizza dough
Garlic Butter:
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Mix Butter: Combine melted butter, minced garlic, and half of the parsley in a small bowl.
- Prepare Dough: Slice the pizza dough into 12 pieces, unfold the strips, fold them in half lengthwise, and tie them into knots.
- Brush Knots: Brush each knot with the butter mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Air Fry: Place 5-6 knots in the air fryer and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Finish: Brush with more butter, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve hot with dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can make homemade pizza dough instead of using refrigerated dough.
- Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To bake in the oven, place knots on a baking sheet in a preheated 400-degree oven for 12-14 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 knot
- Calories: 138 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 246 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 17 mg
