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Air Fryer Garlic Aioli - Creamy, Quick, and Packed With Flavor

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small head of garlic (or 6–8 large cloves)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil, plus more as needed
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup neutral oil (such as avocado, grapeseed, or light olive oil)
  • 2–3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for flavor)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Prep the garlic: Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil and wrap tightly in foil. If using loose cloves, keep them in their skins, toss with oil, and wrap in foil.
  2. Air-fry the garlic: Place the foil packet in the air fryer basket. Cook at 370°F (188°C) for 15–18 minutes, until cloves are soft and lightly caramelized. Let cool until safe to handle.
  3. Squeeze and mash: Squeeze the roasted garlic out of the skins into a small bowl. Mash into a smooth paste with a fork. You’ll need about 1–2 tablespoons of paste, depending on how garlicky you like it.
  4. Start the base: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolk, Dijon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Emulsify: While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle in the neutral oil, a few drops at a time at first. Once it starts to thicken, you can add the oil in a slow, steady stream. The mixture should become creamy and glossy.
  6. Add the flavor: Whisk in the extra-virgin olive oil for richness, then fold in the roasted garlic paste. Taste and adjust with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper. Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika if you like a little heat.
  7. Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve with fries, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as a spread for burgers and sandwiches.