Mouth-watering garlic knots are filled with cheese and coated in buffalo sauce in this irresistible recipe for Buffalo Cheesy Garlic Knots — a perfect appetizer or party snack that’s easy to make and big on flavor.
Introduction
Garlic knots are a classic snack made by twisting pizza dough, brushing it with garlicky butter, and baking until golden. This version elevates the classic by stuffing each knot with a creamy cheese mixture and finishing them with a buttery buffalo glaze. They’re ideal for game-day gatherings, casual parties, or as a bold appetizer to share. The recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients you can find easily.
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp buffalo sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Optional: ½ cup blue cheese or ranch dressing, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and blue cheese crumbles until well mixed; set aside.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a rectangle and cut it into 12 strips about 1 inch wide.
- Place a small spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each strip.
- Wrap the dough around the cheese and tie each strip into a knot, tucking the ends underneath to seal. Arrange the knots on a baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- In another small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, buffalo sauce, garlic powder and dried parsley.
- Brush about three-quarters of the sauce-and-butter mixture over the knots before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the knots are puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining butter-buffalo mixture for a glossy, flavorful finish.
- Serve warm with blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side for dipping, if desired.
What to serve them with
These buffalo cheesy garlic knots pair well with hearty, saucy mains or lighter sides. Try them alongside soups, pastas or casseroles that have a complementary buffalo or creamy flavor profile. They also work great as a shareable appetizer during parties or paired with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Tips, Storage & Variations
- Make ahead: Assemble the knots, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brush with sauce and bake just before serving.
- Freeze option: Freeze the unbaked knots on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a sealed container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Cheese swap: If blue cheese is too strong, substitute with shredded mozzarella or a mild goat cheese for a creamier, less pungent filling.
- Spice level: Adjust the buffalo sauce quantity to suit your heat preference or use a milder hot sauce for less kick.
- Presentation: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives and serve with small bowls of dressing for dipping.
- Prevent leakage: Seal the dough ends well around the cheese to reduce leakage while baking.
Nutrition Facts (per knot, approximate)
- Calories: 228 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 15 g (Saturated Fat: 6 g)
- Cholesterol: 26 mg
- Sodium: 658 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
Note: Nutritional values do not include optional dipping sauces and are approximate.
These Buffalo Cheesy Garlic Knots are easy to customize and make a crowd-pleasing addition to any menu. Whether you’re hosting a game-day spread or making a cozy appetizer for family night, they offer a satisfying blend of cheesy, garlicky and spicy flavors. Enjoy them warm and fresh for the best texture and taste.
