Ciao! I’m Matteo Romano, a Tuscan born chef now living in the U.S., and I’m thrilled to share this soul warming favorite: Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip. This is more than just a fall appetizer it’s a comforting, creamy, crowd pleasing dish I keep coming back to year after year.
It reminds me of autumn afternoons in my family’s countryside kitchen. We’d roast heads of garlic until golden and sweet, then mash them with cannellini beans and olive oil for a rustic, earthy dip served with crusty bread. After I went gluten free, I had to reinvent this nostalgic staple. Through a few thoughtful tweaks, I created a version that honors the original, minus the wheat.
This dip is now a seasonal star at gatherings and weekday lunches alike. Whether you’re setting out a holiday spread or meal prepping your snacks, this dish fits right in. Plus, it’s naturally gluten free, rich in plant based protein, and utterly satisfying.
In today’s post, we’ll walk step by step through how to make this Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip, offer expert tips, variations like gluten free crackers or smoky paprika twists, and storage tips to keep it fresh.
While you’re here, check out cozy companions like my butternut squash soup shooters or crowd favorite avocado deviled eggs both perfect to serve with this creamy dip.
Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip
Equipment
- oven
- foil
- food processor
- knife
- serving bowl
- spatula
Ingredients
- 2 heads garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for garnish
- 1 can white beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp water (plus more as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice tops off garlic heads, drizzle each with 1 tbsp olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 35–40 minutes until golden and soft. Let cool slightly.
- Squeeze roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a food processor. Add white beans, lemon juice, herbs (if using), salt, pepper, and 2 tbsp water.
- Blend until creamy and smooth. Scrape down sides as needed. Add more water or olive oil if the dip is too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more lemon, herbs, or salt if needed.
- Transfer dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle chili flakes or herbs if desired. Serve with gluten-free crackers or fresh vegetables.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip
You’ll need just a few pantry and fridge staples to whip this up:
Ingredients:
- 2 heads of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for garnish)
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons water (or more for desired consistency)
To Serve:
- Gluten free crackers or sliced veggies
- Optional toppings: chili flakes, fresh herbs, or a swirl of olive oil
If you’re planning a full fall snack board, pair it with cranberry goat cheese ball or these cucumber cups with herbed cream cheese.
Step by Step Instructions
Here’s how to make the dip, from roasting the garlic to blending it all up:
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the tops off the garlic heads to expose the cloves. Drizzle each with 1 tablespoon olive oil and wrap in foil. Roast for 35–40 minutes until the cloves are golden and soft. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Squeeze and Blend
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a food processor. Add drained white beans, lemon juice, salt, pepper, herbs (if using), and 2 tablespoons water.
Step 3: Blend Until Creamy
Pulse a few times, then blend until smooth. Scrape down the sides. If the dip seems too thick, add another tablespoon of water or olive oil.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste and adjust seasonings. Add a touch more lemon for brightness or herbs for depth.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with chili flakes or herbs. Serve warm or room temp with your favorite dippers.
Make it part of a wholesome meal with a gluten-free lasagna soup or mini polenta cakes with mushroom ragu.
Tips for Creamy, Flavorful Results
- Roast garlic thoroughly: The key flavor builder. Don’t rush it.
- Use quality beans: If you have cooked from scratch beans, even better.
- Blend patiently: Let the processor run a bit longer for ultra-smooth texture.
- Taste test as you go: You may want more lemon or salt depending on your beans.
- Warm it up: Gently heating the dip before serving enhances the garlic aroma.
Fun Variations to Try
Smoky Paprika Twist
Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika to the mix for a Spanish inspired dip.
Chili Kick
Mix in a roasted jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for spice lovers.
Lemon Herb Brightness
Use a mix of fresh parsley and dill for a vibrant garden feel great alongside gluten-free mozzarella sticks.
Creamy Upgrade
Add a tablespoon of dairy free Greek yogurt or tahini for added richness.
Streusel Style Crunch (Savory!)
Top with toasted gluten free breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and garlic powder before baking it briefly for a warm party dip version.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Freeze in small containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Meal prep:
Portion into small jars with veggie sticks for grab-and-go snacks.
This dip pairs beautifully with 10-minute gluten-free avocado toast for a quick lunch, or spoon it into your sweet potato and black bean bowls for a protein boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make roasted garlic and white bean dip creamier?
Use extra olive oil or a spoonful of dairy-free yogurt or tahini to increase creaminess. Also, blend longer and add water in small amounts.
Can I use different types of white beans?
Yes! Cannellini, great northern, or even navy beans all work. Just ensure they’re soft and well-rinsed.
Is roasted garlic and white bean dip healthy?
Absolutely. It’s high in fiber and plant-based protein, low in saturated fat, and loaded with antioxidants from garlic and lemon.
Can I serve this warm?
Definitely. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a cozy twist.
Conclusion
This Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip brings fall comfort straight to your table with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. It’s smooth, satisfying, and ready in under an hour. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning snacks, or craving something cozy with crisp veggies or gluten-free crackers, this dip won’t let you down.
Bookmark this recipe, and don’t forget to try it alongside my baked brie with cranberry pecan topping or enjoy a full appetizer platter with deviled eggs with paprika and chives. Buon appetito!