Always wanted to know how to make Roasted Garlic? Here's a secret- it's easy! Learn to make this classic ingredient, and have it on hand to make soups, compound butter and more!
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What's better than garlic? Roasted garlic!
Roasted garlic adds a sweet, nutty flavor to so many dishes. It's great in soups, dips, sauces, and of course- mashed potatoes! And while it takes a little time to make, it is so simple to make, and you can make a batch and save it for later in the fridge!

How to make whole roasted garlic
Never made roasted garlic before? If you've never tasted it, prepare to become obsessed. While I love the pungent flavor of fresh garlic, the nuanced, sweet and mellow flavor of roasted garlic is truly something special. To make the roasted garlic, you will need:
- Fresh Garlic bulbs. You can opt to remove most of the outer layer of skin. This makes the garlic easier to squeeze out once it's roasted.
- Olive Oil.
- Aluminum Foil, to wrap the garlic in so it's doesn't dry out as it roasts.
- A pan to roast in/keep the garlic packets leaking in your oven.
- A sharp knife, to slice the top of the garlic bulb off and expose the cloves. Save the tops for another use!
Prepping and roasting the garlic
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
Step 2: Remove as much of the outer layer of papery skin as possible, while still leaving the garlic bulb intact.
Step 3: Slice the top of the garlic bulb off, to expose the garlic cloves. Repeat as many times as you want!
Step 4: Get a big enough piece of aluminum foil to hold all your garlic cloves. I like to use heavy duty,
Step 5: Place the garlic cloves cut side up on the foil. Drizzle enough olive oil onto each expose garlic bulb to coat. It's ok if some oil pools underneath. That's why we're using a pan!
Step 6: Wrap the garlic tightly in the foil, transfer to pan of choice (a sheet pan is perfect) and roast for 40-50 minutes.
I like to check my garlic around 4o minutes. If it's still looking a little light, roast it 10 minutes more. You are looking for a deep golden color.
Pro Tip: Roast garlic in the oven in large batches and save for later!
While it is super easy to make, roasted garlic takes some time to prepare. Because of this, when I make it, I like to roast several cloves at a time, and keep them in my fridge for later. The garlic will keep about a week in an airtight container!
Recipes to make with whole roasted garlic
Here are some great ways to use roasted garlic in recipes, as a mix in and more!
- Mix some into mayo for a great, flavorful sandwich spread.
- Stir into hummus, french onion dip and spinach dip for a flavor boost!
- Add to creamy mashed potatoes for a decadent treat.
- Add to soups and stews.
- Stir into ramen broth for a burst of garlic flavor.
- Add to pan sauces.
- Use it make flavorful compound butter for roasting veggies and whole roast chicken!
Working with and storing the roasted garlic
Once you have your garlic roasted and ready to go, it's important to let it cool fully before using it. To add it to your meals, simply cool it, and squeeze with your fingers directly into your dish.
If you've prepped a large batch for later, store the garlic in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the fridge for up to a week!
Need some recipe inspiration?
Why not try my Slow Cooker Mexican Pozole, Shrimp Corn Chowder, Shrimp Gumbo with Chicken and Andouille, Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Meatloaf, or Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cheese Tortellini and Egg Noodles!
How to Make Roasted Garlic
Equipment
- aluminum foil
- sheet pan/roasting pan
Ingredients
- whole garlic cloves
- olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Step 2: Remove as much of the outer layer of papery skin as possible, while still leaving the garlic bulb intact. Step 3: Slice the top of the garlic bulb off, to expose the garlic cloves. Repeat as many times as you want! Step 4: Get a big enough piece of aluminum foil to hold all your garlic cloves. I like to use heavy duty, Step 5: Place the garlic cloves cut side up on the foil. Drizzle enough olive oil onto each expose garlic bulb to coat. It's ok if some oil pools underneath. That's why we're using a pan!Step 6: Wrap the garlic tightly in the foil, transfer to pan of choice (a sheet pan is perfect) and roast for 40-50 minutes. Note: I like to check my garlic around 4o minutes. If it's still looking a little light, roast it 10 minutes more. You are looking for a deep golden color.
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