Go Back

Air Fryer Roasted Garlic Cloves - Soft, Sweet, and Ready in Minutes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Garlic: 1–2 whole heads, or 12–16 loose cloves (peeled or unpeeled)
  • Olive oil: 1–2 teaspoons
  • Salt: A pinch, to taste
  • Black pepper: Optional, a pinch
  • Foil or small ramekin: For roasting and easy cleanup
  • Optional add-ins: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a dash of smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Prep the garlic: If using whole heads, slice about 1/4 inch off the top to expose the cloves. If using loose cloves, leave them in their skins or use pre-peeled to save time.
  2. Season: Place the garlic (cut-side up if using whole heads) on a piece of foil or in a small ramekin. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add herbs if you like.
  3. Wrap or cover: Loosely wrap the garlic in foil. If using a ramekin, cover it with foil. This traps steam so the cloves turn soft and creamy.
  4. Air fry: Place in the air fryer basket. Cook at 370°F (190°C) for 14–18 minutes for whole heads, or 10–12 minutes for loose cloves. Check at the lower end of the range—air fryers vary.
  5. Test for doneness: The cloves should be deep golden at the tips and very soft when pressed. If they’re still firm, cook 2–4 minutes more.
  6. Cool and squeeze: Let the garlic cool for a few minutes. For whole heads, squeeze from the base to push out the softened cloves. For loose cloves, peel off the skins and mash.
  7. Use or store: Mash with a fork and spread on toast, whisk into vinaigrettes, or fold into butter, hummus, or mashed potatoes. Store leftovers properly (see below).