Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe

If you love the irresistible combo of warm, doughy bread swirled with fragrant garlic and herbs, this Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe is going to be your new obsession. These little knotted beauties come together quickly using simple ingredients, and the air fryer gives them a perfectly golden, slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. Whether you want a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a side for your favorite Italian dinner, these garlic knots are an easy, delicious way to impress without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe relies on a handful of basic ingredients, each playing a key role in delivering big flavor and that perfect texture. Simple pantry staples come together to create something truly special, showing you don’t need to complicate things to make a crowd-pleaser.

• ½ tsp garlic salt: The star seasoning brings that bold garlicky punch with a touch of salt to enhance all the flavors.
• ¼ tsp dried basil: Adds a subtle herbal warmth that complements the garlic beautifully.
• ¼ tsp onion powder: Boosts savory depth without overpowering the delicate dough.
• 13.8 ounce can pizza crust: A soft, stretchable base that’s easy to shape and bakes perfectly in the air fryer.
• Olive oil spray: Keeps the knots moist while helping the seasonings stick and encouraging a golden crust.
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional garnish): Adds a sharp, salty finish if you want to elevate your knots a notch.
• Parsley (minced, optional garnish): Provides a fresh, colorful touch and a mild herbal brightness to balance out the flavors.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Seasoning

Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s nice and ready when your knots are shaped. While it heats, whisk together the garlic salt, dried basil, and onion powder in a small bowl. This simple spice blend is what transforms everyday dough into a fragrant, flavorful delight.

Step 2: Shape the Knots

Unroll your pizza crust on a clean surface, then slice it widthwise into ten 1-inch wide strips. Cutting widthwise, not lengthwise, ensures the strips are just the right size for easy knotted shapes. To form each knot, gently wrap the middle of the strip around itself and tuck the loose ends underneath. Remember, these knots should be loose so they can bake evenly while maintaining their signature look.

Step 3: Season and Air Fry

Give all your knots a light coating of olive oil spray, which helps the spices adhere and encourages a golden crust. Sprinkle your spice mix evenly over each knot, using just a pinch per piece to avoid overwhelming the dough. Arrange the knots in the air fryer basket and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 6 minutes until they’re lightly browned and puffed up just right.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Once they’re baked, give the knots a quick mist of olive oil or brush with melted butter for shine and richness. If you like, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and some minced parsley over the top for a gorgeous, flavorful finish that makes these garlic knots truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe

Garnishes

For a simple but elegant touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the knots just before serving. This not only adds vivid color but also a fresh herbal note that balances the garlic nicely. Grated parmesan or pecorino cheese is another classic garnish that adds a delicious savory punch and a little extra texture.

Side Dishes

Air fryer garlic knots pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, making them a natural partner for any Italian meal. They also complement classic dishes like spaghetti bolognese, chicken parmesan, or a hearty minestrone soup, adding that warm, buttery bread element that makes any meal feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Arrange your knots on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of garlic butter, ranch dip, or spicy arrabbiata sauce alongside. You could also skew a few knots onto cocktail sticks for an easy, handheld appetizer that’s fun to share. The possibilities are endless when you start thinking beyond just a plate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from your batch of Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They maintain their soft texture well, so they’re great for snacking later without losing their charm.

Freezing

You can freeze these garlic knots before cooking by shaping them and placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in your freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, simply bake them straight from frozen in the air fryer, adding a couple extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To bring your garlic knots back to life, pop them back into the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 3 minutes. This method crisps up the outside while warming the inside to a freshly baked softness, unlike microwaving, which can make the dough chewy or soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these knots with homemade dough instead of canned pizza crust?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s rolled out evenly and cut into strips similar in size to those in the recipe. Fresh dough might need a little extra air frying time to cook through.

Do I have to use an air fryer, or can I bake these in the oven?

You can bake them in the oven if you prefer. Just preheat to about 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the knots on a lined baking sheet for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown. The air fryer just speeds up the process and adds a nice crisp texture.

What if I want more intense garlic flavor?

Feel free to add a bit of fresh minced garlic to the olive oil or butter you brush on after baking. Roasted garlic can also be mixed into the seasoning for a richer, mellower taste. Just adjust carefully so it doesn’t overpower the delicate dough.

Are there any vegan substitutions for this Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe?

Yes! Swap out butter for vegan butter or keep using olive oil for brushing after cooking. Skip the parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep things vegan while still enjoying all the garlic knot goodness.

Can I add extra toppings or flavors to these knots?

Definitely! Try sprinkling red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or use Italian seasoning for a slightly different herb profile. You might also twist in some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean vibe.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Garlic Knots Recipe have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen for their ease, speed, and unbeatable flavor. They bring the perfect balance of soft, garlicky comfort with just the right amount of crisp, made even better by how simple the ingredients and steps are. Give them a try next time you want a memorable snack or side, and I promise you’ll be hooked just like I am!

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