Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots are everything people love about garlic bread—soft dough, buttery garlic flavor, and irresistible aroma—taken one step further with a molten cheese center. Each knot is tender on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and filled with gooey melted mozzarella that stretches with every bite. These knots are universally loved, making them perfect for parties, game days, pasta nights, or anytime a comforting, shareable bread is needed.

Unlike plain garlic knots, this version delivers a surprise inside. The cheese melts into the dough as it bakes, creating a rich interior that contrasts beautifully with the garlicky, buttery exterior. They are simple enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

Why Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots Are So Popular

These knots combine several winning elements:

Familiar pizza-shop flavor
Soft, chewy bread texture
Rich garlic butter coating
Melted cheese center
Pull-apart, shareable appeal

They work equally well as an appetizer, side dish, or snack and pair with nearly any cuisine.

The Dough Matters

Using pizza dough makes this recipe approachable and reliable. Store-bought dough works perfectly, but homemade pizza dough can also be used. The dough’s elasticity allows it to stretch around the cheese without tearing, while baking up light and fluffy.

Ingredients

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
6 mozzarella cheese sticks, halved
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Dough
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide pizza dough into 12 equal pieces.
Stuff with Cheese
Roll each dough piece into a rope about 6 inches long. Place a half mozzarella stick in the center, fold dough over, and pinch edges to seal completely.
Form Knots
Gently tie each stuffed rope into a loose knot, tucking ends underneath.
Arrange and Brush
Place knots on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Brush lightly with olive oil.
Bake
Bake for 14–16 minutes until golden brown.
Prepare Garlic Butter
While baking, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and parsley.
Finish and Serve
Brush hot knots generously with garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Knots

Seal dough tightly to prevent cheese leaks
Do not over-knot; loose knots bake more evenly
Brush butter while knots are hot for maximum flavor
Use low-moisture mozzarella for best melt

Variations

Cheese Blend: Mozzarella and provolone
Herb-Forward: Add oregano or basil
Spicy: Add chili flakes to garlic butter
Stuffed Deluxe: Add pepperoni slices with cheese

Serving Suggestions

Cheese-Filled Garlic Knots pair perfectly with:

Marinara sauce
Alfredo sauce
Pizza night spreads
Pasta dishes
Soup and salad meals

They also work well on appetizer platters or party boards.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days
Reheat in oven at 350°F for best texture
Avoid microwaving to preserve crispness

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of olive oil before baking and butter after baking ensures the knots stay moist without becoming greasy. Stuffing the cheese inside prevents burning while creating a dramatic, stretchy center.