Meet the ultimate party pleaser: Roasted Garlic Dip. This dreamy, creamy dip balances the sweet savoriness of oven-roasted garlic with bright lemon and tangy creaminess, making it an irresistible centerpiece for everything from weekend hangouts to holiday spreads. Whether you’re a garlic devotee or just discovering the magic of roasted cloves, this dip brings warmth, depth, and serious flavor to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in simplicity, and the ingredients here prove it. Each element works in harmony—bringing out soft, rich, and zesty notes that transform basic pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing Roasted Garlic Dip.
- Garlic bulbs: Roasting tames garlic’s bite, creating a lush, caramelized flavor that’s the star of the show.
- Olive oil: Helps the garlic roast up tender while adding subtle fruitiness.
- Sour cream: Lends a tangy base and keeps the dip luxuriously creamy.
- Mayonnaise: Adds body and smooth texture, blending perfectly with dairy.
- Cream cheese (softened): Provides richness and a subtle velvety note.
- Lemon juice: Just a splash brightens the whole dip, balancing out the roasted flavors.
- Onion powder: A pinch of this brings gentle, savory depth.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together—season to taste!
- Black pepper: Adds a little bite and earthiness.
- Chopped fresh chives (optional): For a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Roasted Garlic Dip
Step 1: Roast the Garlic Bulbs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take both whole garlic bulbs and carefully slice the tops off to reveal the tops of the cloves inside. Place them onto a square of foil, giving them some space, then drizzle with olive oil so the cloves soak up extra flavor and caramelize beautifully. Wrap them up snugly in the foil and pop them in the oven. After 35 to 40 minutes, the garlic should be golden, fragrant, and so soft it practically melts at the touch. Let them cool a bit so you don’t burn your fingers.
Step 2: Squeeze and Mash the Garlic
Once the bulbs have cooled enough to handle, hold each one over a mixing bowl and squeeze out those precious roasted cloves—they’ll slip out like a dream. Mash them using a fork or the back of a spoon until you have a smooth, buttery paste. This is where that heavenly roasted garlic flavor truly shines.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a separate medium-size bowl, whisk the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese together until silky and uniform. This trio creates the fluffiest, most luscious dip base that’s ready to hug all that roasted garlic goodness.
Step 4: Stir Everything Together
Add your mashed garlic paste into the creamy mixture. Stir in lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and black pepper—these supporting ingredients amplify the flavors without overpowering the richness of the garlic. Mix everything until it’s smooth and totally combined.
Step 5: Chill and Garnish
The final secret? Chill your Roasted Garlic Dip for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This lets all the flavors mellow and meld, turning good dip into great dip. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top for a gorgeous finishing touch and a hit of color.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic Dip
Garnishes
Elevate your Roasted Garlic Dip with a finishing sprinkle of fresh chives for pop and freshness. Extra touches like a dusting of smoked paprika or even a few shavings of Parmesan make it look and taste restaurant-worthy—plus, they make every bite even more memorable.
Side Dishes
This dip was practically made for crunchy crudités—think sweet bell peppers, snap peas, and baby carrots. It’s equally at home beside pita chips or a warm loaf of torn baguette. For a twist, offer kettle chips or pretzel rods for a salty, satisfying bite that complements the garlicky creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Lean into your inner hostess and serve Roasted Garlic Dip in a rustic bowl surrounded by a rainbow of vegetables and artisan breads. For parties, try filling mini phyllo cups with the dip and topping with a chive sprig. Or use it as a creamy spread for sandwiches—trust me, your next grilled veggie wrap will thank you.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any Roasted Garlic Dip left at the end of the night, simply scoop it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it perfect for snacking or spreading onto sandwiches later in the week.
Freezing
While it might be tempting to stash extra dip in the freezer, this isn’t the best idea. The creamy base tends to separate or become grainy after freezing and thawing, so it’s best to enjoy Roasted Garlic Dip fresh from the fridge within a few days of making it.
Reheating
This dip truly shines when served chilled or at cool room temperature. If you want to take the chill off, give it a short rest on the counter before serving—no need for the microwave! The flavors really come alive as the dip gently warms up.
FAQs
Can I make Roasted Garlic Dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead gives the flavors plenty of time to develop and mingle, leading to an even tastier dip. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Is there a good substitute for cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand or prefer something lighter, Greek yogurt can work as a swap. It’ll add a slight tang and a lighter texture, but still helps create a creamy, balanced dip.
How can I make the dip spicier?
If you love a little heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a swirl of your favorite hot sauce. A dash of smoked paprika can also boost both flavor and color.
What’s the best way to roast garlic if I don’t have foil?
No foil? No problem! Place your garlic bulbs cut side up in a small baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover the dish with a lid or an inverted baking sheet. Just make sure the cloves are sealed up to steam and caramelize.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger party?
Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just double every ingredient, and you might want to roast the garlic in two batches for even cooking. It’s perfect for larger gatherings or potlucks.
Final Thoughts
If you adore garlic (or know someone who does), this Roasted Garlic Dip will be an instant favorite. It’s simple, spectacular, and always disappears fast. Don’t wait for your next party—whip up a batch, grab your favorite dippers, and let every scoop remind you just how special a classic homemade dip can be!
Print
Roasted Garlic Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Roasted Garlic Dip. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this flavorful dip pairs well with veggies, chips, or pita bread. The roasted garlic adds a rich, savory twist that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
Roasted Garlic:
- 2 whole garlic bulbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Dip:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the garlic: Slice the tops off the garlic bulbs, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35–40 minutes until golden and soft.
- Prepare the dip: Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, mash into a paste. In a bowl, whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream cheese until smooth. Add garlic, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Chill and serve: Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with chives before serving.
Notes
- This dip is great with veggies, chips, or pita bread.
- Enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or Parmesan.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
