Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Roasted Garlic in the Air Fryer is a simple, hands-off way to create rich, caramelized garlic that enhances everything from spreads to sauces. The air fryer method speeds up the roasting process while delivering that same mellow, sweet flavor traditional oven roasting provides. Perfect for meal prep or adding a gourmet touch to any dish.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
whole garlic bulbsolive oilsaltaluminum foil
directions
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
Cut the tops off the garlic bulbs to expose the cloves.
Drizzle each bulb with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
Wrap each bulb in aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Place the wrapped garlic bulbs in the air fryer basket.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown.
Let cool slightly before squeezing the roasted garlic out of the skins.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes roasted garlic from 1–2 bulbs.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 20-25 minutesCooling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
Add herbs like rosemary or thyme before wrapping for an aromatic twist.
Try using shallots or pearl onions in the same method for a sweet alternative.
Use different types of garlic (e.g., elephant garlic) for varied flavors.
Roast multiple bulbs and store extras for later use.
storage/reheating
Store leftover roasted garlic in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.Or freeze in small portions (e.g., in an ice cube tray) for up to 3 months.Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before use if desired.

FAQs
Can I roast unwrapped garlic in the air fryer?
Wrapping helps prevent burning and keeps the garlic moist, so it’s recommended.
How do I use roasted garlic?
Spread it on toast, mix into mashed potatoes, add to pasta sauces, or stir into dressings.
Is roasted garlic healthy?
Yes, it retains many health benefits while being easier on the stomach than raw garlic.
Do I need to peel the garlic first?
No, just cut the tops off the bulbs. The skins help protect the cloves during roasting.
Why is my garlic burning?
It’s likely unwrapped or roasted too long—use foil and monitor closely after 20 minutes.
Can I use pre-peeled garlic?
It’s best with whole bulbs, but you can roast peeled cloves in a small covered dish.
Is the texture different from oven-roasted garlic?
Very similar—air fryer roasting produces the same soft, spreadable consistency.
Can I flavor the oil?
Absolutely! Use infused oils for added depth.
Is it okay to roast multiple bulbs at once?
Yes, just ensure they fit in the basket without crowding.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Mashing the garlic and storing it in olive oil works great for quick use later.
Conclusion
Roasted Garlic in the Air Fryer is a delicious, hassle-free way to enjoy the deep flavor of roasted garlic with minimal prep. Whether you’re elevating your meals or preparing ahead, this quick method delivers every time. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to oven-only roasting.
PrintRoasted Garlic in Air Fryer
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 16–20 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings (approx. ¼ head per serving) 1x
- Category: Condiment / Spread
- Method: Air Fryer Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An easy and flavorful recipe for perfectly roasted garlic using an air fryer—creamy, caramelized cloves ready to spread or use in various dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 head garlic
- 1 teaspoon extra‑virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- aluminum foil
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380 °F (190 °C).
- Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves.
- Place the garlic on a square of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Wrap tightly, forming a pouch.
- Air fry for 16–20 minutes, until cloves are soft.
- Carefully open the pouch (watch for steam) and let cool 5–10 minutes.
- Squeeze the cloves out of their skins and enjoy.
Notes
- Use oven mitts or tongs—foil pouch will be hot.
- You can roast multiple heads at once—just don’t overcrowd.
- Store roasted cloves submerged in olive oil in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze in oil-filled ice cube trays.
- Foil traps moisture; parchment + ramekin or dish work too as alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ head garlic
- Calories: 32 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 148 mg
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: –
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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