Roasted Garlic Butter Recipe

Introduction

Roasted garlic butter is a game-changer in the kitchen. This luxurious and flavorful butter is made with roasted garlic, butter, and a few simple ingredients that perfectly complement each other. Whether you spread it on bread, mix it into pasta, or use it as a finishing touch on vegetables, this rich and aromatic condiment will elevate your dishes to the next level. Easy to prepare and versatile, roasted garlic butter deserves a spot in your culinary rotation.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Roasted Garlic

Two whole garlic heads roasted until soft and tender

Unsalted Butter

One stick of unsalted butter at room temperature

Fresh Herbs

Two teaspoons of fresh parsley or another herb of your choice, finely chopped

Salt and Pepper

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Lemon Zest (Optional)

One teaspoon of fresh lemon zest for a citrusy twist

Prep Time

Preparing this roasted garlic butter involves only around 10 minutes of active effort. The bulk of the time is spent roasting the garlic, which can be done effortlessly in the oven while you prepare other elements.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is approximately 30-40 minutes, which includes roasting the garlic to golden perfection without burning it. The total time, assuming you begin with prepping, is under one hour. Once done, this recipe yields about half a cup of roasted garlic butter, ready to enhance a variety of dishes.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the garlic to a soft, spreadable texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Heads

Slice off the top of each garlic head to expose the tops of the cloves. Aim to remove about 1/4 inch of the top part. Make sure all cloves are slightly visible for even roasting. Keep the garlic in its papery skin to prevent burning during roasting.

Step 3: Drizzle with Olive Oil

Place the prepared garlic heads onto a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle each head with about one teaspoon of olive oil, ensuring it coats the exposed garlic cloves. Wrap the garlic heads tightly in the foil to create a package.

Step 4: Roast the Garlic

Transfer the foil package to the oven, placing it directly onto the middle rack. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the cloves are golden brown and soft. Check for doneness by gently piercing a clove with a fork—it should glide through easily.

Step 5: Cool the Garlic

Once roasted, carefully remove the garlic from the foil and let it cool slightly until it’s safe to handle. This cooling step allows the garlic cloves to soften further, making them easier to extract.

Step 6: Extract the Garlic

Using your fingers or a small fork, gently squeeze or pop the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins. Gather them into a small bowl for the next steps.

Step 7: Mix the Garlic Butter

In a medium bowl, mash the roasted garlic cloves with a fork. Add softened unsalted butter (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing) and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.

Step 8: Optional Add-Ins

If preferred, add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, for added flavor. Lemon zest or a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the mixture.

Step 9: Store or Serve

Transfer the prepared garlic butter to a ramekin or small airtight container. If not using immediately, refrigerate for up to one week. For long-term storage, roll the butter into a log shape using parchment paper, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Note on Garlic Selection

Choose fresh, firm garlic heads with tight papery skins for best results. Avoid any heads that feel soft or appear to have sprouting.

Note on Butter Temperature

Ensure the butter is soft but not melted to achieve a creamy texture. Leave it at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing.

Note on Olive Oil

Use high-quality olive oil for the roasting process, as it adds a subtle richness to the garlic.

Note on Flavor Adjustments

Feel free to customize the recipe with additional herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with thyme, oregano, or smoked paprika for a unique flavor profile.

Note on Serving Suggestions

Spread roasted garlic butter onto freshly baked bread, use it as a topping for grilled steaks, or stir it into pasta for a quick and flavorful dish.

Note on Storing and Freezing

Refrigerate the butter for up to one week or freeze for up to three months. To freeze, shape the butter into a log, wrap tightly in parchment paper, and store in an airtight freezer-safe bag. Slice off as needed.

Cook Techniques

Roasting Garlic

To roast garlic, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the individual cloves. Drizzle olive oil over the cloves and wrap the bulb in aluminum foil. Roast in the oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the garlic cloves are soft and lightly golden. Let them cool before handling.

Preparing Garlic Butter

Once your garlic is roasted, squeeze the cloves out of their skins into a mixing bowl. Mash the garlic with a fork until smooth. Add softened butter, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. You can shape the butter into a log using parchment paper or store it in airtight containers.

Storing Garlic Butter

To store garlic butter, place it in an airtight container or roll it up in parchment paper into a log. Keep it refrigerated for up to one week. For longer shelf life, freeze it for up to 3 months. Slice off portions as needed when frozen.

Customizing Garlic Butter

You can customize your garlic butter with additional ingredients like grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, or even red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Experiment with your favorite herbs or seasonings to suit your dish preferences.

Using Garlic Butter

Garlic butter can be used in various ways, such as spreading on bread, melting it over vegetables, or incorporating it into pasta dishes. It also pairs well with grilled meats or seafood for added flavor.

FAQ

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh roasted garlic?

While it’s possible, roasted garlic has a sweeter and more mellow flavor compared to pre-minced raw garlic. It is recommended to use roasted garlic for the best taste.

How long does garlic butter last in the fridge?

Garlic butter stored in an airtight container in the fridge will last up to one week. For extended storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may need to adjust or omit the additional salt in the recipe to prevent it from being overly salty.

What herbs work best for garlic butter?

Popular herbs include parsley, thyme, chives, oregano, and rosemary. Fresh herbs generally provide better flavor, but dried herbs can work as well if fresh ones are not available.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can use a vegan butter substitute and follow the same steps to make a vegan-friendly garlic butter.

What’s the best way to freeze garlic butter?

Shape the garlic butter into a log using parchment paper and wrap it tightly before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Alternatively, portion it into ice cube trays, freeze, and transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.

Does roasted garlic lose its flavor when frozen?

Roasted garlic can be frozen, and it retains its flavor well. However, the texture might become slightly softer, which typically isn’t an issue when mashed into butter.

Can I roast garlic in advance?

Yes, roasted garlic can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze roasted garlic for longer storage.

Conclusion

Roasted garlic butter is a flavorful, versatile addition to any kitchen, perfect for elevating meals with its rich, savory taste. Its simple preparation and wide range of uses make it a staple recipe for any home cook. Whether spread on fresh bread or used to enhance your dishes, this roasted garlic butter is sure to impress your taste buds.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mash roasted garlic butter into warm potatoes for a creamy and aromatic side dish.

Garlic-Infused Pasta

Melt roasted garlic butter over cooked pasta and toss for a quick, flavorful meal.

Savory Garlic Bread

Spread roasted garlic butter on baguette slices, toast, and enjoy a delectable appetizer or side.

Grilled Vegetables

Brush roasted garlic butter onto your favorite fresh veggies before grilling to enhance their natural flavors.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

Sauté shrimp in roasted garlic butter for a luxurious and easy seafood dish.

Garlic-Flavored Steaks

Top freshly grilled steaks with a dollop of roasted garlic butter for an indulgent finish.

Homemade Pizza

Use roasted garlic butter to brush the pizza crust for a rich, garlicky base.

Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken

Rub roasted garlic butter under the skin of the chicken before roasting for added moisture and flavor.

Garlic Corn on the Cob

Spread roasted garlic butter over hot corn on the cob for a unique twist on a classic side.

Garlic-Flavored Seafood

Pair roasted garlic butter with lobster, crab, or scallops for a decadent seafood experience.