These Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots are buttery, cheesy, and perfectly crispy! An easy, delicious side or snack made in minutes.

Golden-brown Trader Joe's Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots, crispy, cheesy, and topped with garlic butter.
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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious side or snack, these Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots are a must-try! Buttery, cheesy, and perfectly crispy, they come together in minutes with minimal effort.

The air fryer gives them a golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Brushed with a flavorful garlic butter and packed with melty cheddar, these knots are perfect for pairing with pasta, soup, or simply enjoying on their own. Get ready for an irresistible bite that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

If you love baking in your Air Fryer as much as I do, this recipe will wow you. And then head over and check out some of my personal favorites, including Air Fryer Bread Recipes, AIR FRYER GARLIC BREAD, AIR FRYER SOFT DINNER ROLLS, AIR FRYER CHOCOLATE CROISSANTS, and AIR FRYER COPYCAT RED LOBSTER CHEDDAR BISCUITS.

Golden-brown Trader Joe's Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots with melted cheese and garlic butter glaze.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

  • Quick and Easy: These garlic cheddar knots come together in minutes using the air fryer, making them a perfect last-minute side or snack.
  • Crispy and Cheesy: The air fryer creates a golden, crispy exterior while the melty cheddar inside adds rich, cheesy goodness.
  • Irresistible Garlic Butter Flavor: Each knot is coated in a delicious garlic butter glaze, making every bite extra flavorful.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether serving them with pasta, soup, or as an appetizer, these knots are always a hit.
  • Made with Trader Joe’s Convenience: Using pre-made dough or a simple mix, this recipe is easy, hassle-free, and full of flavor.

If you love easy Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Recipes, try my recipe for Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Cauliflower Gnocchi, Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Korean Short Ribs, or Trader Joe’s Sausage Pasta.

Ingredients Needed

Ingredients needed for Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots on kitchen table.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melted unsalted butter adds rich, buttery flavor and helps create a golden, crispy exterior on the knots.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses each knot with a bold, savory aroma and delicious garlicky taste.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty kick that enhances the flavor and creates a slightly crispy topping.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts inside the knots, giving them a gooey, cheesy center with every bite.
  • Dried Parsley Flakes: A sprinkle of dried parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
  • Cooking Spray: Olive oil spray prevents sticking and helps the knots crisp up evenly in the air fryer.
  • Marinara Sauce: A side of marinara sauce makes the perfect dipping companion, adding a tangy, classic pairing to the cheesy knots.

How To Make Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots

Preheating the air fryer to 375°F and rolling out Trader Joe's pizza dough on a floured surface.

Step One: Set your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. Roll out the Trader Joe’s Raw Pizza Dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.

Trader Joe's pizza dough rolled into a rectangle on a floured surface, ready for cutting.

Step Two: Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the dough into 1-inch-wide strips.

Dough strips rolled into ropes and tied into knots, placed on a plate ready for air frying.

Step Three: Roll each strip into a rope and tie it into a knot, then place them on a plate or tray.

Hand-rolled dough knots arranged on a plate, ready for air frying.

Step Four: In a small microwave-safe bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic, then microwave for about 20 seconds until fragrant. Dip each dough knot into the garlic butter mixture, letting any excess drip off.

A plate of uncooked Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots ready to be cooked."

Step Five: Place the coated knots in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and dried parsley flakes over the knots.

Air fryer basket filled with garlic cheddar knots in a single layer, topped with Parmesan, cheddar, and parsley.

Step Six: Cook at 375 degrees F (190°C), with a cook time 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked. In the last few minutes, check the knots to ensure they reach your desired level of crispiness. Transfer the knots to a serving plate and enjoy with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Golden-brown Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots topped with melted cheese and garlic butter.

Trader Joe’s Garlic Knots Recipe Tips

  • Use Room Temperature Dough: Let the pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.
  • Flour the Surface Lightly: A lightly floured surface prevents sticking but avoid using too much flour, which can make the dough tough.
  • Tie Loose Knots: Don’t tie the dough too tightly—this allows the knots to expand and cook evenly in the air fryer.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook the knots in a single layer to ensure they crisp up evenly; work in batches if needed.
  • Brush with Extra Garlic Butter: For even more flavor, brush the knots with additional garlic butter as soon as they come out of the air fryer.
  • Add Cheese at the Right Time: Sprinkle Parmesan and cheddar cheese before air frying for a crispy, melty topping, or add extra cheese after cooking for an extra gooey finish.
  • Check for Doneness: Since air fryer models vary, check the knots a couple of minutes before the timer is up to prevent overcooking.
  • Serve Immediately: These knots are best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the air fryer!

Storing

  • Storing: Let the garlic cheddar knots cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled knots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warm and crispy. Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Microwave: Heat in 15-second intervals, but note they may be softer rather than crispy.
Golden, crispy Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots topped with melted cheese and garlic butter.

What To Serve With These Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots

Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes! Serve them as a side to a hearty pasta dish, like spaghetti or fettuccine Alfredo, for a comforting meal. They’re also perfect alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of warm soup, such as tomato or creamy potato.

For a snack, dip them into marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for extra flavor. You can even serve them with a charcuterie board for a fun appetizer spread. These knots are versatile enough to complement any meal!

Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different type of dough? While this recipe uses Trader Joe’s Raw Pizza Dough, you can substitute it with any pre-made pizza or bread dough of your choice for similar results.

Can I make these garlic cheddar knots ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the knots, store them in the fridge, and then air fry them when you’re ready to serve. If making ahead, brush them with garlic butter just before air frying for extra flavor.

Can I freeze these garlic cheddar knots? Absolutely! After preparing and shaping the knots, freeze them on a baking sheet for an hour, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready, air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I keep the knots crispy after cooking? Serve the knots immediately for the crispiest texture. If you need to store them, reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Can I add more cheese or seasoning to the knots? Yes! Feel free to top the knots with more cheese or your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor.

How can I make these garlic cheddar knots spicier? To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce after cooking. You can also mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper into the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

Golden, crispy Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots topped with garlic butter and melted cheese.

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Trader Joe's Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots

Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots

3.50 from 4 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Make delicious Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Garlic Cheddar Knots in minutes! Buttery, cheesy, and perfectly crispy, these knots are a perfect snack or side dish.
YouTube video

Ingredients 

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • 1/2 cup Marinara sauce, for dipping, optional

Instructions

  • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes.
  • Roll out the Trader Joe’s Raw Pizza Dough on a lightly floured surface to form a large rectangle.
  • Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the dough into strips about 1 inch wide.
  • Roll each dough strip into a rope and tie it into a knot, then place the knots on a plate or tray.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine melted butter and minced garlic. Microwave for 20 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant.
  • Dip each dough knot into the garlic butter mixture, letting any excess drip off.
  • Place the coated knots in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded (you may need to cook in batches).
  • Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and dried parsley over the knots.
  • Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
  • Keep an eye on the knots in the last few minutes to achieve your preferred level of crispiness.
  • Once done, remove the knots from the air fryer and serve on a plate, optionally with marinara sauce for dipping.

Equipment

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 82kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 21mgSodium: 147mgPotassium: 56mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 301IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 0.2mg

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