Name: Oversized Four-Cheese Stuffed Pizza Knot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough (Can use store-bought dough for convenience.); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup marinara sauce (For spreading over the dough.); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Adjust based on heat preference.); 1 large egg, beaten (For brushing on the knot.); 1 tablespoon olive oil (To drizzle before baking.)

Directions to follow

Ready to dive into the making process? Follow these easy steps:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle to create a nice thin base.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses until well-blended.
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges for sealing.
Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes evenly over the sauce for added flavor.
Layer the cheesy mixture over the marinara.
Roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the edges to seal.
Cut the log in half lengthwise and twist the two pieces together to form a delightful knot.
Transfer the knot to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the knot with beaten egg for a golden finish and drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve!

Best ways to enjoy it

Now that your oversized four-cheese stuffed pizza knot is out of the oven and cooling, how can you serve this masterpiece?

Dipping Sauce: Pair it with additional marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.
Side Salads: Serve with a crisp garden salad or Caesar salad for a well-rounded meal.
Fun Platters: Use it as the centerpiece of a cheese or charcuterie board, surrounded by olives, pickles, and an assortment of cheeses.

How to store

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s how to keep this cheesy delight fresh:

Refrigeration: Store any uneaten knot in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the knot before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. Defrost in the fridge and bake as instructed when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Helpful cooking tips

Cooking tips can elevate your recipe to the next level! Here are a few to keep in mind:

Use Parchment: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only helps with cleanup but also prevents sticking.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference—gouda or pepper jack can add unique flavors!
Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to cater to your heat tolerance; you can even add diced jalapeños for a zesty kick.

Creative twists

While the original recipe is fantastic, why not explore some variations? Here are a few creative ideas:

Herbed Dough: Add fresh herbs into the dough for an aromatic flavor.
Spinach and Artichoke: Mix chopped spinach and artichokes into the cheese filling for a twist on a classic dip.
Meat Lovers: Toss in pepperoni or cooked sausage for a heartier option.

Common questions

How long does it take to make this pizza knot?

From prep to bake, this dish takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it a quick choice for dinner.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great shortcut if you’re short on time.

How should I handle leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Always reheat thoroughly!

Incorporating this oversized four-cheese stuffed pizza knot into your meal repertoire will undoubtedly create delicious memories—shared with family, friends, or just for a cozy night in. Enjoy!