Cottage Cheese Garlic Knots – Fluffy, Cheesy & High-Protein

Soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with garlicky, buttery flavor—these Cottage Cheese Garlic Knots are everything you love about classic garlic bread, but with a healthy, high-protein twist. Made with simple ingredients like cottage cheese and almond flour, they’re gluten-free, low-carb, and surprisingly fluffy for such a wholesome recipe.

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these garlic knots are guaranteed to disappear fast. Even better? They come together in under 30 minutes and don’t require yeast, rising time, or complicated techniques. If you’re looking for an easy, protein-packed bread alternative that doesn’t sacrifice taste, you’ve just found your new favorite recipe.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons these cottage cheese garlic knots deserve a spot in your regular rotation. Here’s why readers (and you!) will keep coming back to this recipe:

1. High-Protein & Nourishing

Thanks to cottage cheese and egg, these garlic knots are naturally high in protein, making them far more filling than traditional bread. They’re perfect if you’re trying to increase protein intake without relying on shakes or bars.

2. No Yeast, No Waiting

Unlike classic garlic knots that require yeast and rising time, this recipe is completely yeast-free. That means no kneading, no proofing, and no stress—just mix, shape, and bake.

3. Gluten-Free & Low-Carb

Using almond flour instead of wheat flour makes these garlic knots gluten-free and lower in carbohydrates, ideal for anyone following a gluten-free or low-carb lifestyle.

4. Fluffy, Not Dense

One of the biggest concerns with almond flour baking is texture—but don’t worry. The combination of cottage cheese, egg, and baking powder creates a dough that bakes up soft, fluffy, and tender, not heavy or gritty.

5. Incredibly Versatile

Serve them with pasta, soup, salads, or enjoy them on their own as a savory snack. You can also customize them with different cheeses, herbs, or seasonings to match any meal.

6. Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing

These garlic knots have all the familiar flavors people love—garlic, butter, cheese—so even picky eaters won’t guess they’re made with cottage cheese.

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Ingredients

You only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients to make these garlic knots. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

🛒 What You’ll Need

• 1 cup cottage cheese
  The star ingredient! Cottage cheese adds moisture, protein, and a soft, bread-like texture. For best results, use full-fat or blend it until smooth.
• 1 large egg
  Helps bind the dough and adds structure while boosting protein content.
• 1 cup almond flour
  A gluten-free alternative to traditional flour that keeps these garlic knots light and low-carb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
  Provides lift and fluffiness without the need for yeast.
• Pinch of salt
  Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Delivers bold garlic flavor throughout the dough.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
  Adds richness and that classic garlic-bread taste. Used for brushing before and after baking.
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
  Adds a fresh, herby finish and beautiful color.
• 2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella or Parmesan (optional)
  For a cheesy topping that melts into golden perfection.

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Instructions

Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to make perfect cottage cheese garlic knots every time.

1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

2️⃣ Make the Dough

In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and egg. Mix well until mostly smooth. If your cottage cheese is very chunky, you can blend it briefly for a smoother dough.

Add the almond flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Stir until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. The dough should hold together but still be easy to shape.

3️⃣ Shape the Knots

Divide the dough into equal portions (about 6–8 pieces). Roll each portion into a short rope, then gently tie it into a loose knot. Don’t pull too tightly—this helps keep the knots fluffy.

Place the shaped knots onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

4️⃣ Bake

Brush the knots generously with melted butter. If using, sprinkle the tops with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the garlic knots are lightly golden and set in the center.

5️⃣ Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven and brush with a little more melted butter for extra flavor. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.

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Variations & Flavor Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Try these delicious variations to keep things exciting:

🧄 Extra Garlic Lovers

Add 1–2 cloves of finely minced fresh garlic to the dough or mix garlic powder with butter for brushing.

🧀 Cheesy Garlic Knots

Mix shredded mozzarella or Parmesan directly into the dough for ultra-cheesy knots.

🌿 Herb-Infused

Add Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, or rosemary to the dough for a bakery-style flavor.

🌶️ Spicy Kick

Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking or add a pinch of chili powder to the dough.

🧈 Garlic Butter Finish

Mix melted butter with garlic powder, salt, and parsley, then brush generously right after baking.

🥓 Savory Upgrade

Add finely chopped cooked bacon or turkey bacon for a savory, protein-packed twist.

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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I taste the cottage cheese?

Not at all. Once baked, the cottage cheese melts into the dough, leaving behind a soft, fluffy texture with no tangy flavor.

Do I need to blend the cottage cheese?

Blending is optional. If you prefer a smoother dough and more bread-like texture, blending helps—but it works both ways.

Are these garlic knots keto-friendly?

They are low-carb, but not strictly keto due to the cottage cheese. They fit well into most balanced, low-carb diets.

Can I make them dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy, so substitutions may affect texture. Dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives may work, but results can vary.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I reheat them?

Yes! Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes to restore their fluffy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Freeze baked garlic knots in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

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Final Thoughts

These Cottage Cheese Garlic Knots prove that healthy baking doesn’t have to be boring. They’re fluffy, cheesy, garlicky, and packed with protein—all while being easy enough for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

Whether you’re serving them alongside pasta, dunking them into soup, or enjoying them straight off the baking sheet, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. If you love simple, high-protein recipes that taste indulgent, these garlic knots deserve a permanent place in your kitchen.

Happy baking! 🧄🧈✨

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