Print

Garlic Knots With Marinara Sauce

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These garlic knots with marinara sauce are soft, chewy, and golden brown, brushed with garlicky oil and served with a tangy-sweet tomato sauce. A nostalgic comfort food, they make the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising time)
  • Yield: 24 garlic knots
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

    • For the Dough:
    • 1 cup warm water
    • 1 tsp sugar
    • 1 packet (2 1/4 oz) active dry yeast
    • 3 cups bread flour
    • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
    • 1 tsp salt
    • 1 egg, well beaten
    • Nonstick spray, for greasing

 

    • For the Garlic Oil:
    • 1/2 cup olive oil
    • 2 heads garlic, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • 1 tsp dried basil
    • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
    • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
    • 1 tsp kosher salt
    • 1/2 cup parmesan, grated
    • 2 tbsp parsley, chopped

 

  • For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, sliced
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • Freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 2 tsp honey (or more, to taste)

Instructions

  1. In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top, cover, and let proof for 5 minutes.
  2. Add flour, olive oil, salt, and beaten egg. Knead with dough hook until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
  3. Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
  4. Meanwhile, combine all garlic oil ingredients in a bowl. Set aside.
  5. For the sauce, heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes, sauté until lightly browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, pepper, and honey. Simmer 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning and keep warm.
  6. Divide dough into 24 pieces. Roll each into a 6-inch log and tie into knots. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  7. Cover loosely and let rise for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  8. Bake knots for 15 minutes until golden. Brush with garlic oil, sprinkle parmesan and parsley, then bake another 3–4 minutes until fragrant and golden brown.
  9. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

Notes

  • Use all-purpose flour for a softer, less chewy texture.
  • Make the dough ahead and refrigerate overnight for convenience.
  • Replace honey with sugar if desired for sweetness in the sauce.
  • Air fryer method: 350°F for 8–10 minutes, working in batches.
  • Serve with pesto, ranch, cheese dip, or alongside pasta or soup.

Nutrition