Cheesy Garlic Knot Pizza Dip

INGREDIENTS:

• Pizza Dough

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

• 6 clove garlic, chopped and divided

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

Divide pizza dough into 12-14 equal sized balls. With floured hands, roll the dough balls into logs and tie into individual knots, tucking the excess underneath. Coat a 10” oven-safe skillet with olive oil. Place the knots in a ring around the skillet. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes, allowing dough to reach room temperature. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, ricotta, basil, 1/2 of the garlic, and red pepper flakes. Melt the butter and add the parsley and remaining garlic. Stir well. Uncover the knots and scoop the dip into the center of the skillet. Brush the knots with the butter/garlic mixture (reserving some for after baking), and top the dip with an additional sprinkle of cheese (optional). Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. Broil for two additional minutes or until knots and cheese get lightly browned – watching closely so as not to burn it. Remove from oven and brush lightly with the reserved garlic butter. Let cool slightly before serving.