Garlic Knots: Air Fryer Frozen Treats

Garlic knots are a delicious snack or side dish, and cooking them in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve the perfect golden brown, crispy exterior and soft, garlicky interior. Frozen garlic knots can go straight from the freezer into the air fryer, making them a convenient option for busy cooks or those without an oven. In this article, we will guide you through the simple process of making frozen garlic knots in an air fryer, including recommended cooking times and temperatures, as well as serving suggestions and storage tips.

Air fryer temperature and timing

Air Fryer Temperature:

The optimal temperature for cooking frozen garlic knots in an air fryer is between 330-360 degrees Fahrenheit (165-182 degrees Celsius). This temperature range ensures that the garlic knots cook through evenly, achieving the desired crispiness without burning.

Air Fryer Timing:

The cooking time for frozen garlic knots in an air fryer varies depending on the quantity and your desired level of doneness. On average, it takes around 6-8 minutes to cook frozen garlic knots thoroughly.

For smaller batches of 4-6 garlic knots, 4-6 minutes in the air fryer should suffice. Set the timer for 4 minutes, then flip the knots and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they reach the desired golden brown color.

For larger batches of 6-8 garlic knots, increase the cooking time to 7-8 minutes. Again, remember to flip the knots halfway through to ensure even cooking.

It's important to keep an eye on the garlic knots during the cooking process, as air fryers can vary in terms of power and performance. Check on your garlic knots a couple of minutes before the estimated cooking time to ensure they don't burn.

Additional Tips:

• No preheating is required for most air fryers when cooking frozen garlic knots.
• Ensure the garlic knots are frozen solid before placing them in the air fryer.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Arrange the knots in a single layer with some space around each one to allow for even cooking.
• For optimal crispiness, avoid lining the air fryer basket with parchment paper, as this can restrict airflow.
• If desired, brush the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking and enhance the golden color.

By following these temperature and timing guidelines, you'll be able to create delicious, crispy, and flavorful frozen garlic knots in your air fryer every time.

No preheating required

No preheating is required when making frozen garlic knots in an air fryer. In fact, it is recommended that you do not preheat your air fryer. This saves you time and gets your crispy garlic knots on the table faster.

To make frozen garlic knots in an air fryer, simply add the frozen garlic knots to the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer, as this will affect the cooking time and prevent the knots from becoming crispy. Set the temperature to between 330 and 360 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Once the garlic knots are golden brown, remove them from the air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or alfredo sauce. You can also sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Frozen garlic knots are a convenient option for those who want to enjoy garlic knots without the fuss of making them from scratch. They can be found in the frozen section of most grocery stores and can be cooked in an air fryer with minimal preparation.

No need to defrost

There's no need to defrost frozen garlic knots before placing them in the air fryer. In fact, it's recommended that you keep them frozen until you're ready to cook them. This saves you time and energy, and helps to ensure that they come out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

To cook frozen garlic knots in an air fryer, simply place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're in a single layer and not overlapping. Then, follow the temperature and timing instructions provided in your chosen recipe. Most recipes recommend cooking the garlic knots at around 330-360°F for 4-6 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

So, if you're short on time and want to enjoy delicious, crispy garlic knots, there's no need to defrost—just pop them straight into your air fryer and enjoy!

How to store garlic knots

Storing garlic knots correctly is essential to maintaining their quality and flavour. Here are some tips to ensure your garlic knots stay fresh:

• Container : Store garlic knots in an airtight container to prevent moisture penetration and keep the flavour and texture intact. Avoid plastic bags or containers as they can cause garlic to sweat and mould. Opt for an earthenware container or a mesh bag that allows airflow.
• Temperature : Keep garlic knots at room temperature for up to 4 days. Avoid refrigeration or freezing as this can alter their taste and texture. The cold temperature and moisture in refrigerators can cause garlic to become rubbery and mouldy.
• Humidity : Store garlic knots in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Humidity can cause mould growth and reduce shelf life.
• Air Exposure : While garlic knots should be kept in a well-ventilated area, too much air exposure can make them stale quickly, especially if left out for long periods before storage.
• Light and Smells : Store garlic knots away from light and strong smells to prevent contamination.
• Other Foods : Keep garlic knots separate from other vegetables, fruits, and ethylene-producing fruits like bananas, as they can affect the garlic knots' freshness and cause them to ripen and spoil faster.
• Preparation : For maximum flavour, avoid crushing or chopping garlic too early. Discard any cracked or moulded cloves.

Additionally, if you have any leftover cooked garlic knots, you can store them in an airtight container, Ziploc bag, or covered in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked garlic knots in a freezable container or bag for up to 2 months.

Dipping sauces

While garlic knots are delicious on their own, dipping sauces can enhance their flavour and provide a variety of tastes. Here are some mouth-watering dipping sauces that you can pair with your air-fried garlic knots:

Marinara Sauce

The classic choice for garlic knots is marinara sauce. This tomato-based sauce is a perfect complement to the garlicky goodness of the knots, providing a tangy and savoury flavour. Whether store-bought or homemade, this sauce will surely impress.

Garlic Butter Sauce

For even more garlic punch, a garlic butter sauce is an excellent option. Simply melt some butter, add minced garlic, and perhaps a sprinkle of parsley, and you have a delicious dipping sauce. It's a quick and easy way to add extra flavour to your garlic knots.

Ranch Dressing

If you're looking for a creamy and tangy option, ranch dressing is a great choice. The cool, herby flavour of ranch pairs surprisingly well with the warm, buttery garlic knots. It's a unique combination that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Parsley Butter

For a fresh and fragrant dipping sauce, try making parsley butter. Simply mix softened butter with finely chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. This sauce will add a bright, herbal note to your garlic knots.

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce, with its blend of tomatoes, herbs, and spices, can be a delightful dip for garlic knots. It has a similar flavour profile to marinara sauce but is often sweeter and more concentrated. Dip your garlic knots in pizza sauce for a true taste of Italy.

Garlic Parmesan Wing Sauce

If you want to take your dipping game up a notch, try making a garlic parmesan wing sauce. This sauce is a delicious combination of garlic, cheese, and spices, and it pairs exceptionally well with garlic knots. It's a bit more involved to make but is well worth the effort for a special treat.

Frequently asked questions