What dough works best when I make these bacon-wrapped cheese knots?

I usually choose soft yeast dough for a tender, breadlike bite, but puff pastry or pizza dough also bake up nicely. Each gives a different texture: puff pastry is flakier, pizza dough is chewier, and yeast dough is pillowy.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking during baking?

I cut the cheese into compact sticks, wrap it snugly in the dough, and seal edges well. Chilling the assembled knots for 10–15 minutes before baking helps prevent leaks, too.

What oven temperature and bake time do you recommend?

I preheat to 400°F for most doughs. Bake 15–20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the bacon is crispy. Puff pastry may need slightly less time; check early to avoid overbaking.

How can I get the bacon truly crispy without overcooking the dough?

I place knots on a wire rack set over a baking sheet so hot air circulates under the bacon. That crisps the bacon while the dough browns evenly. Basting with a bit of melted butter midbake helps color without drying them out.

Do I need to use fresh garlic or is garlic powder okay for the butter?

I prefer minced fresh garlic for the brightest flavor in the garlic butter, but garlic powder works in a pinch. A mix of both gives a consistent garlic profile and reduces the risk of burning.

Can I assemble the knots ahead of time?

Yes. I assemble and refrigerate them up to 24 hours ahead, covered, then bake straight from the fridge. For longer storage, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What are good dipping options to serve with these knots?

I serve warm marinara, garlic-parmesan butter, or a herby aioli. They also pair well with salads or sliced Italian meats on a snack board.

How much grated parmesan should I use to finish the knots?

I sprinkle about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of finely grated parmesan over a batch of 12–16 knots, adjusting to taste. It adds a salty, nutty finish without overpowering the other flavors.

Any tips for seasoning variations or cheese swaps?

I swap herbs like fresh parsley, rosemary, or dried oregano depending on what I have. For cheese, parmesan plus provolone or cheddar works well; just avoid overly moist cheeses that cause leaks.

What tools should I have on hand before I start?

I keep parchment paper, a mixing bowl, a pastry brush, a sharp knife for cutting cheese, and a wire rack for baking. Those simple tools make the process smooth and the results consistent.

Discover My Secret to Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Garlic Knots

Name: Discover My Secret to Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Garlic Knots
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 slices standard-cut bacon; 1 sheet puff pastry or 1 lb pizza dough; 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 4 tablespoons butter, melted; 2-3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Description

Crispy bacon-wrapped mozzarella garlic knots with golden edges and melty centers. Perfect party appetizer using puff pastry or yeast dough.

Ingredients

Scale

12 slices standard-cut bacon

1 sheet puff pastry or 1 lb pizza dough

8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks

4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

4 tablespoons butter, melted

2–3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F for puff pastry or 425°F for rack method

2. Roll dough into even strips and place cheese down the center

3. Wrap each strip with bacon slice and tie into loose knot

4. Brush with garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with parmesan

5. Bake 30-35 minutes for pastry or 20 minutes on wire rack plus 5 minutes more

6. Let cool briefly before serving

Notes

Use wire rack over baking sheet for crispier bacon

Cut cheese small to prevent leaking

Can assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours

Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 knot
Calories: 185
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg