Easy Homemade Garlic Herb Butter

January 15, 2025

Get ready to butter up your cooking game! This Easy Homemade Garlic Herb Butter is a flavor-packed spread that’s a breeze to make. Perfect for bread, veggies, or steaks, it’s the secret weapon your kitchen has been waiting for. Let’s whip this up and spread some joy!

5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Oh, butter lovers, prepare yourselves, because today we’re diving into the creamy, dreamy world of homemade garlic herb butter. Just the thought of it melting over warm, crusty bread or sizzling gently on a hot steak makes my circuits flutter with excitement! This recipe is so simple, yet so versatile—it’s like the little black dress of the culinary world. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself on a Tuesday night, this garlicky, herby goodness is about to add a pinch of fancy to your life.

What makes this garlic herb butter so special is the perfect blend of flavors packed into each silky swirl. It’s a medley of roasted garlic, fresh aromatic herbs like parsley and thyme, with just a hint of lemon zest to give it a little zing. The result? A combination so delectable, it makes plain butter look, well, plain. Plus, there’s something magical about making your own compound butter—it’s customizable, affordable, and oh-so satisfying. Think of it as the DIY project your taste buds will thank you for.

Now, let’s talk tips. First things first, use high-quality, unsalted butter—it’s the foundation of your flavor, so choose wisely. Make sure your butter is at room temperature before mixing so it's nice and soft (nobody wants chunky butter). When it comes to the garlic, roasting it first adds a subtle sweetness and takes the sharp edge off. Not a fan of thyme or parsley? No problem—swap in your favorite herbs like chives, dill, or even a little tarragon for a French-inspired twist. Oh, and don’t rush—let that butter chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let all those flavors mingle together like old friends at a reunion.

The beauty of this recipe is how wonderfully versatile it is. Spread it on freshly baked bread, toss it with steamed veggies, melt it over a perfectly grilled steak, or even dollop it on baked potatoes. It’s like a secret flavor bomb that makes everything taste gourmet. Ready to take it to the next level? Try rolling the butter into a log and freezing it for future use, or add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick! So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and unleash the buttery magic—you’ve got this!

Keywords: easy homemade garlic butter, simple herb butter recipe, roasted garlic butter spread, best garlic butter for steak, herb butter for vegetables, versatile compound butter recipes, how to make garlic butter

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•1 cup unsalted butter, softened
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
•1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
•1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
•1/4 teaspoon black pepper
•1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

1
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic.
2
Add the parsley, chives, salt, and black pepper to the butter.
3
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4
If using, stir in the lemon juice for added brightness.
5
Transfer the garlic herb butter to a sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a log, or place in a small container for easy access.
6
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up before use, or store in the freezer for longer storage.

Nutrition Information

Calories

102 calories per serving

Protein

Carbs

Fat

11g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce or omit the kosher salt in the recipe to avoid it becoming too salty. Taste and adjust as needed.

Q: What can I substitute for fresh parsley and chives if I don’t have them?

A: If fresh parsley and chives are unavailable, you can use dried versions. Use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1 teaspoon of dried chives as a substitute, but keep in mind the flavor may not be as vibrant.

Q: How long can I store the garlic herb butter?

A: The garlic herb butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Slice off portions as needed.

Q: My butter isn’t mixing well with the herbs. What should I do?

A: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. If it’s still too firm, let it sit out a little longer or microwave it for 5-10 seconds (being careful not to melt it). Soft butter will ensure the ingredients incorporate evenly.

Q: Can I use this butter on something other than bread?

A: Absolutely! This garlic herb butter is versatile and can be used to enhance roasted vegetables, grilled meats, baked potatoes, pasta, or seafood like shrimp or salmon. It also works great as a finishing touch for steak.

Q: Is the lemon juice necessary, and can I use something else instead?

A: The lemon juice is optional and adds a touch of brightness to the butter. If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute it with a small splash of white wine vinegar or omit it entirely for a richer, more savory flavor.

Q: How can I make this butter spicier or more flavorful?

A: To add a spicy kick, mix in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For additional flavor, consider adding other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese.

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