Roasted Garlic and Herb Dip

Name: Roasted Garlic and Herb Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of garlic; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Easy Recipes | Simple Food

I absolutely love making this Roasted Garlic and Herb Dip for gatherings. The roasted garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor, while the fresh herbs lend a vibrant touch. It’s creamy, rich, and pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables or crusty bread. I’ve tried several combinations, but this blend of ingredients always gets rave reviews. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up, you’ve found it! Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dip that will surely impress everyone at your next event.

Created by

Kyle

Last updated on 2026-02-08T19:10:28.115Z

When I first experimented with roasted garlic, I was amazed how a simple head of garlic could transform a dish. Roasting the cloves mellows their strong flavor, giving them a sweet and buttery sauce-like texture. It took me a few trials to get the right balance of herbs and creaminess, but the result is always worth it. This dip has become a staple in my kitchen for special occasions.

One tip I discovered is to let the roasted garlic cool slightly before blending it with the cream cheese and herbs. This helps maintain the dip's texture and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. I love how versatile this dip can be, easily adjusted for any season or palate!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that complements crunchy vegetables
The unique flavor of roasted garlic adds depth to any snack
Perfect for entertaining or casual weeknight enjoyment

      

The Art of Roasting Garlic

Roasting garlic transforms its pungent raw flavor into a sweet, caramelized sensation that can elevate any dip. When preparing your head of garlic, make sure to slice off just the top, allowing the individual cloves to roast evenly without exposing too much of the inner garlic. Wrapping it tightly in foil will trap steam, helping it to soften beautifully while preventing burning. Check for doneness after about 30 minutes; the garlic should be soft and golden brown, and the aroma will be intoxicating.

If you have a bit of extra time, consider roasting multiple heads of garlic at once. Roasted garlic can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a versatile ingredient for various dishes. Its sweet, mellow flavor can be used in pasta sauces, salad dressings, or even spread on toasted baguette slices. Just make sure to adjust the quantity in your dip based on how strong you like the garlic flavor.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The ingredients you select for your Roasted Garlic and Herb Dip will profoundly impact its flavor and texture. I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for a denser, creamier base. Low-fat alternatives may result in a dip that lacks the richness needed to balance the roasted garlic's bold flavor. Additionally, fresh herbs like parsley and chives add a pop of color and freshness, but for a different twist, you could experiment with dill or basil as alternatives.

When it comes to mayonnaise, I prefer a high-quality brand for a smoother blend. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead. It will not only reduce the calorie content but also add a tangy flavor that complements the dip beautifully. Always taste and adjust your dip’s seasoning, as the amount of salt you need can vary depending on the saltiness of your mayonnaise or cream cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your dip:

Ingredients

1 head of garlic
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bring your dip to life:

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast for 30 minutes until soft and golden.

Prepare the Dip

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and the roasted garlic cloves. Use a fork or a mixer to blend until smooth.

Add the Herbs

Fold in the fresh parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust herbs to your preference for a more intense flavor.

Chill and Serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with fresh vegetables or bread.

Enjoy this dip chilled for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, try incorporating some grated Parmesan cheese into the dip for a savory kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this dip is how well it holds up for storage. You can prepare it up to two days in advance, which is ideal for gatherings. Just cover the dip tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly after chilling.

If you’re planning to serve this dip at a party, consider pairing it with an array of dippable options. Fresh vegetable sticks, pita chips, and crusty bread are all excellent choices. For a more substantial offering, you can even serve the dip alongside grilled meats or fish, enhancing the flavor profiles of your main dishes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your dip turns out too thick after chilling, you can easily adjust the consistency by mixing in small amounts of olive oil or milk until you achieve the desired smoothness. Conversely, if it’s too runny, you can thicken it up by adding a teaspoon of cream cheese and blending it until smoothly integrated.

Sometimes, the flavor may not be as impactful as you hoped, which can happen if the roasted garlic isn’t prominent enough. To remedy this, try adding more roasted garlic cloves, or if you're in a pinch, you can include a splash of garlic powder for an extra punch. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly, as garlic powder can add its own subtle saltiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use raw garlic instead of roasted?

While you can use raw garlic, the flavor will be much stronger. Roasted garlic provides a sweeter taste.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make this dip vegan?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based sour cream and mayonnaise.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs well with fresh vegetables, crackers, or toasted bread. It's a great addition to charcuterie boards!