How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Knots Fast

If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with garlicky flavor, you’re in the right place. These Air Fryer Garlic Knots offer an easy, fast way to create a delicious treat that’s perfect as a quick snack or a tasty side dish. Using simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you’ll get golden, mouthwatering knots that’ll impress everyone at your table without hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: You can whip up these garlic knots in under 20 minutes, making them a perfect fast fix.
• Crispy texture: The air fryer gives the knots a perfectly crisp exterior while keeping them soft inside.
• Versatile snack: Enjoy them as a side for pasta, soup, or simply on their own with dipping sauces.
• Minimal ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together for maximum flavor and minimal fuss.
• Customizable: Easily add herbs, cheese, or spices to suit your taste and occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting great results starts with fresh, straightforward ingredients that build delicious flavor and flawless texture. Each element plays a role, whether for the dough’s softness, the garlic butter’s richness, or the knots’ golden finish.

• Pizza dough: Use store-bought or homemade for a soft, chewy base that’s easy to shape.
• Butter: Gives that rich, silky coating that’s essential for garlic knots.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the knots with vibrant, savory punch.
• Parsley: Adds a pop of fresh color and mild herbal notes to balance richness.
• Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkles of grated cheese add an irresistible umami boost.
• Olive oil: Helps crisp the knots perfectly in the air fryer and enhances flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that highlight all other tastes.

Variations for Air Fryer Garlic Knots

One of the best things about Air Fryer Garlic Knots is how simple they are to customize based on what you love or have on hand. Feel free to experiment and tweak this recipe into your own signature snack.

• Cheesy garlic knots: Mix shredded mozzarella into the dough or sprinkle on top before air frying.
• Herb infusion: Swap parsley for basil, oregano, or rosemary for different fragrant profiles.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat.
• Vegan option: Use vegan butter and check that dough contains no dairy to make it plant-based.
• Garlic knots with dipping sauce: Serve alongside marinara, ranch, or a tangy mustard dip.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Knots

Step 1: Prepare the dough

Start by rolling out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12 by 8 inches. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 12 equal strips, roughly 1 inch by 4 inches each.

Step 2: Shape the knots

Take each strip and tie it into a loose knot. Make sure not to tie too tight to allow the dough to expand while cooking. Place the knotted dough on a parchment-lined plate or tray while you prepare the garlic butter.

Step 3: Mix garlic butter

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced fresh garlic, olive oil, chopped parsley, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir it all together to marry those bold flavors.

Step 4: Preheat and air fry

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Arrange the garlic knots in a single layer inside the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and crisp at the edges.

Step 5: Brush with garlic butter

As soon as the knots are cooked, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture while still hot. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese right away to get some melting magic.

Step 6: Serve warm

Let the knots cool for a minute before serving. Their crispy outside and buttery, garlicky inside will have everyone coming back for more.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Garlic Knots

• Use room temperature dough: This makes it much easier to shape the knots without tearing.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave space between knots for even crisping and browning.
• Adjust timing for your air fryer: Some models run hotter or cooler, so keep an eye to avoid burning.
• Fresh garlic is key: Powdered garlic won’t give you the same bright, fresh zing.
• Double brush for more flavor: Apply garlic butter both before and immediately after air frying for extra richness.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Knots

Garnishes

Brighten your garlic knots with simple garnishes like extra chopped parsley, a dusting of Parmesan cheese, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a little spice. These add both visual appeal and depth of flavor.

Side Dishes

These knots pair beautifully with classic Italian dishes such as spaghetti, lasagna, or a hearty tomato soup. They also make fantastic finger food at parties alongside fresh veggies and dips.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your garlic knots by serving them in a rustic bread basket lined with a colorful napkin or piling them on a cutting board with small bowls of marinara, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing for dipping. Presentation elevates the experience and invites the sharing spirit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Air Fryer Garlic Knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps preserve their softness inside without drying them out.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked garlic knots by wrapping them tightly in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat your knots in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to revive their crispiness without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen dough to make Air Fryer Garlic Knots?

Absolutely! Just thaw the dough completely before shaping to ensure it’s pliable and easy to knot.

How long do Air Fryer Garlic Knots stay fresh?

They’re best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days when stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container.

Can I make these knots gluten-free?

Yes, by using your favorite gluten-free pizza dough, you can easily adapt the recipe while keeping the same great flavors.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps the garlic knots cook evenly and achieve that crispy crust quickly, so it’s highly recommended.

What dipping sauces go well with garlic knots?

Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, and spicy mustard all complement these knots beautifully, offering options from classic to bold.

Final Thoughts

Making Air Fryer Garlic Knots fast is one of those simple pleasures that brings warmth, comfort, and joy straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a savory side, this recipe combines ease, flavor, and that perfect crispy-soft texture every time. Go ahead and give these garlic knots a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

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