Growing up, pretzels weren’t just a snack; they were a family tradition. We’d spend Saturday afternoons baking together, laughing, and sharing stories. Now, with my own family, I’ve put a cheesy spin on this tradition. My kids adore these pretzels, and they love to help out with the pretzel shaping. It’s a little messy at times, but that’s what makes it fun. The best part? Watching their faces light up when they take a bite and the cheese oozes out.
If you’re looking for an easy and satisfying snack, these pretzels are a must-try. They’re perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a game day or a simple family night at home. The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, so you can whip them up anytime. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home too. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking! You’ll love the blend of garlicky goodness combined with the cheesy center that’s sure to please any crowd.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients:
- 14 oz pizza dough (1 can)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Set your oven to preheat at 400˚F (200˚C) while you prepare the dough.
- Spread the pizza dough out into a rectangle on a clean surface.
- Use a knife to divide the dough into 8 even strips.
- Gently stretch each strip, making them a bit longer and wider.
- Lay a line of mozzarella cheese down the middle of each strip of dough.
- Fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the seams and ends to secure the filling.
- To form a pretzel, create a “U” shape with the dough, twist the ends around each other twice, and then attach them to the bottom of the “U.”
- Arrange the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the pretzels.
- Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese evenly over each pretzel.
- Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they reach a lovely golden brown color.
- Let them cool slightly before serving and enjoy the cheesy deliciousness of your homemade pretzels!
Don’t Have Pizza Dough? Here’s What to Use Instead
If you’re out of pizza dough, you can try using crescent roll dough or even bread dough as a substitute. Both options work well, though they might alter the texture slightly. Crescent roll dough will give you a flakier pretzel, while bread dough will offer more chewiness. These alternatives still allow you to enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness with a slight twist in texture.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Garlic Parmesan Pretzels
To keep your pretzels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each pretzel individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Perfect Pairings for Garlic Parmesan Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels
These pretzels pair wonderfully with a warm marinara sauce or a rich cheese dip for extra indulgence. Consider serving them with a side of hearty tomato soup for a more filling meal. A cold beer or a refreshing lemonade complements the garlic and cheese flavors, making for a delightful snack or appetizer during gatherings.
Secrets to Perfecting Garlic Parmesan Pretzels
To ensure your pretzels have the perfect texture, don’t rush the dough stretching process. Gently and evenly stretch each dough strip to avoid tearing. Also, make sure the dough is sealed tightly around the cheese to prevent it from leaking out while baking. Using fresh garlic and herbs enhances the flavor significantly, so it’s worth the extra effort if you have them on hand.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Garlic Parmesan Pretzels
Incorporate seasonal ingredients into this recipe by adding a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds in the fall or a dusting of rosemary in the winter for extra flavor. In the spring, you could mix in some fresh chives or dill with the parsley. Summer’s bounty of herbs can give your pretzels a vibrant twist without altering the core recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack to add a unique flavor profile. Each cheese will lend its own distinctive taste and texture to the pretzels, so choose according to your preference.
Is it necessary to use fresh parsley?
Using fresh parsley adds a bright and fresh flavor to the pretzels, but if you don’t have any on hand, dried parsley can work as a substitute. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of the quantity.
What’s the best way to reheat these pretzels?
The best way to reheat these pretzels is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pretzels for about 5-10 minutes until they’re heated through. This helps maintain their crisp exterior, unlike the microwave, which may make them soggy.
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Yes, you can make the pretzel dough from scratch if you prefer. A simple yeast-based dough will work well, and it allows you to control the ingredients and dough consistency. Just make sure to allow enough time for the dough to rise before use.
How can I make these pretzels more spicy?
If you want to add a spicy kick, try incorporating some red pepper flakes into the butter mixture or using a spicy cheese like pepper jack. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper over the pretzels before baking. Adjust the amount to your heat preference for the perfect spicy note.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
To make these pretzels gluten-free, swap out the pizza dough for a gluten-free dough option available at most grocery stores. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as cheese and butter, are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without worrying about gluten content.
Garlic Parmesan Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 14 ounces pizza dough (1 can)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
For Pretzels:
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape.
- Slice the dough into 8 equal strips.
- Gently stretch each strip to make it longer and wider.
- Position mozzarella cheese in the center of each strip.
- Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch to seal the edges tightly.
- To shape your pretzel, form a “U” with the ends, twist them twice, and then attach to the bottom of the “U”.
- Arrange the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
For Topping:
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, and parsley, then pour this mixture over the arranged pretzels.
- Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese evenly over the pretzels.
- Bake the pretzels for about 20 minutes or until they achieve a lovely golden-brown color.
- Serve and savor the delightful cheesy pretzels!
