These days, going DIY is all the rage! Making your own ingredients in the kitchen has become somewhat of a trend and everyone wants to see how they can make their own spice blends etc. and rely less on store-bought ingredients. This is a quick, easy recipe for making garlic and onion powder in your own home. The flavor is intense and better than the ones you’d get in-store.
To make it, you simply dry the onion and garlic cloves in the oven, then grind them to a powder. Store it as a pantry staple and use it to give flavor to the dishes, just like you would use any spice. Homemade onion and garlic powder will prove that there is no need to ever buy pre-packaged onion powder from the grocery store again. Intense flavor with no additives…what’s not to love?
How to Make Garlic Powder at Home 🧄✨
Garlic powder is one of the most useful pantry staples. It adds instant flavor to soups, sauces, marinades, rubs, and just about any savory dish. While store-bought garlic powder is convenient, making it at home is incredibly simple, cost-effective, and ensures you’re getting a fresh, preservative-free product. Plus, homemade garlic powder has a stronger, richer flavor that will elevate your cooking.
Why Make Garlic Powder at Home?
- Fresher flavor – Store-bought versions can sit on shelves for months.
- No additives – Pure garlic, nothing else.
- Budget-friendly – A big batch of garlic costs far less than bottled powder.
- Satisfying DIY project – You’ll always have homemade seasoning on hand.
What You’ll Need
- Fresh garlic bulbs
- A sharp knife or garlic slicer
- A dehydrator (best option) or oven
- Blender, spice grinder, or mortar and pestle
- Airtight glass jar for storage
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Peel the Garlic
- Separate cloves from the bulb.
- Remove the papery skins (smashing each clove lightly with a knife helps).
Step 2: Slice Thinly
- Slice garlic cloves into thin, even pieces. The thinner the slices, the faster they dry.
Step 3: Dry the Garlic
You can use two methods:
In a Dehydrator:
- Spread slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays.
- Dry at 60°C (140°F) for 8–12 hours until completely dry and brittle.
In an Oven:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place garlic slices in a single layer.
- Bake at the lowest oven temperature (65–80°C / 150–175°F) for 2–4 hours, leaving the door slightly open for airflow.
- Flip slices halfway through to ensure even drying.
👉 Garlic is ready when slices snap cleanly instead of bending.
Step 4: Grind into Powder
- Once cooled, transfer dried garlic slices to a spice grinder, blender, or mortar and pestle.
- Grind until you achieve a fine, powdery texture.
Step 5: Store Properly
- Pour into an airtight jar or spice container.
- Label with the date and store in a cool, dark cupboard.
- Use within 6–12 months for the best flavor.
Pro Tips
- For garlic flakes: Stop grinding early and store as-is.
- For a smoother powder: Sift after grinding to remove larger pieces.
- Avoid moisture—if powder clumps, add a few grains of uncooked rice to the jar.
How to Use Homemade Garlic Powder
- Sprinkle on roasted vegetables or meats.
- Mix into spice blends, marinades, or dry rubs.
- Stir into soups, stews, and sauces for instant flavor.
- Use as a seasoning for popcorn, fries, or homemade chips.
Final Thoughts
Making garlic powder at home is easy, rewarding, and ensures you always have a fresh, flavorful seasoning in your kitchen. With just a few bulbs of garlic, some drying time, and a grinder, you’ll have a jar of homemade goodness that outshines anything from the store.
