Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Bulb

To start, grab a fresh bulb of garlic. Using a sharp knife, cut about ¼ inch off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the tops of the individual cloves. Don’t worry if it’s not a perfect slice – just aim to reveal a good portion of the cloves so they roast evenly.

Step 2: Drizzle with Olive Oil and Season

Place the garlic bulb inside your garlic roaster (most are ceramic or clay, which gives garlic an even roast). Generously drizzle the exposed cloves with olive oil, ensuring that they seep into the bulb. Add a sprinkle of salt, and for extra flavor, toss in your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme. These herbs will infuse the garlic with subtle earthy notes during roasting.

Step 3: Roast in the Oven

Once your garlic is prepped and snug in the roaster, cover it with the roaster lid. Preheat your oven to 400°F (or 375°F for a slower roast) and place the roaster on the middle rack.

Let the garlic roast for 40-45 minutes. The cloves will turn a golden-brown color, and the smell will be irresistible. For those who like a deeper caramelization, you can roast it a little longer until it reaches your desired level of softness and sweetness.

Pro Tip: If you’re roasting multiple bulbs at once, you may need to adjust the time slightly. Keep an eye on them around the 35-minute mark.

Step 4: Cool and Squeeze

After the roasting is complete, carefully remove the garlic roaster from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, you can squeeze the roasted cloves out of the bulb. The cloves should slip out easily, with a creamy texture that spreads like butter.