Want to transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences? This bold, smoky Cowboy Butter is your secret weapon! Bursting with garlic, herbs, and a hint of heat, this compound butter takes just 10 minutes to make and pairs perfectly with steak, grilled veggies, crusty bread, and more. Get ready to elevate your meals with this versatile, flavor-packed condiment!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
What You’ll Need:
- ½ cup (4 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest + ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp chopped fresh thyme
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
First, mix all ingredients in a bowl until fully combined. Ensure the butter is softened for easy blending and even distribution of flavors.
Step 2: Shape the Butter
Next, scoop the butter mixture onto plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll it into a log and twist the ends to secure the shape.
Step 3: Chill to Perfection
After, refrigerate the butter log for 2 hours to let the flavors meld. This step ensures the butter firms up and intensifies in taste.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Finally, slice the chilled butter and serve it over grilled steak, roasted veggies, or melt it as a dipping sauce for bread. Enjoy the bold, smoky flavors!
The Best Time to Savor Your Cowboy Butter
This Cowboy Butter shines at BBQs, family dinners, or even weeknight meals! Slather it on Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef, drizzle it over Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, or use it as a dip for grilled shrimp. The garlicky, smoky notes add depth to any dish, making it a must-have condiment!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Butter
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes! Use ⅓ the amount of dried herbs (e.g., 1 tsp dried parsley instead of 1 tbsp fresh).
How long does cowboy butter last?
Store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 3 months. Slice and thaw as needed.
Is this butter spicy?
The heat level is mild, but adjust the chili powder and crushed red pepper to suit your taste.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute plant-based butter for a dairy-free version. Pair it with Creamy Tortellini Soup for a cozy meal.
Cowboy Butter
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
2 hours & 10 minutes
Servings
8
Category
Snacks and small bites
This bold, smoky compound butter will elevate any dish! Perfect for steaks, grilled veggies, or crusty bread, it’s bursting with garlic, herbs, and a touch of heat. Whip it up in minutes and watch it become your new kitchen staple!
Ingredient
- ½ cup (4 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest + ½ tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp chopped fresh thyme
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
Instructions
- First, mix all ingredients in a bowl until fully combined.
- Next, scoop the butter onto plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- After, roll into a log and twist the ends to shape.
- Then, refrigerate for 2 hours to let flavors meld.
- Finally, slice and serve over steak, veggies, or melt as a dip!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 108
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 1g
- Protein: 0g
Pro Tips
For a quick dipping sauce, melt the butter and drizzle over grilled shrimp or roasted potatoes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cowboy Butter
Elevate your cowboy butter game with these expert tips for maximum flavor and versatility:
- Use Room-Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends smoothly with herbs and spices, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Freeze for Later Use: Slice the log into portions before freezing. This lets you grab just what you need for quick meals.
- Boost the Smoke: Add an extra ½ tsp of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for deeper smoky notes.
- Turn It into a Marinade: Melt the butter and brush it over meats like Pecan-Crusted Salmon before grilling or roasting.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance—double them for a fiery kick!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keep your cowboy butter fresh and ready to use with these storage hacks:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container or wrapped in parchment for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the butter log for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
- Softening: Let chilled butter sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for easy spreading.
- Melting: Microwave sliced portions in 10-second intervals if using as a drizzle or dip.
Perfect Pairings for Cowboy Butter
This bold compound butter transforms simple dishes into showstoppers. Try it with:
- Grilled Meats: Slather it on steaks, Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef, or chicken.
- Seafood: Melt over grilled shrimp or Miso Salmon for a flavor boost.
- Bread: Serve with warm Italian Bread or 3-Ingredient Biscuits.
- Veggies: Toss with roasted potatoes or drizzle over Gochujang Noodles.
We’d love to hear how you’re using your Cowboy Butter! Did you slather it on grilled steak, melt it over roasted veggies, or stir it into pasta? Share your favorite pairings and creative twists in the comments below—your ideas might just inspire someone else’s next kitchen masterpiece!
For a showstopping appetizer, try serving this butter alongside warm Italian Bread or 3-Ingredient Biscuits. Hosting a dinner party? Pair it with Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef or Miso Salmon for a flavor-packed main course. Want to take it up a notch? Mix a spoonful into Creamy Tortellini Soup for a rich, smoky finish.
Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us! Tag your photos with #cowboybutter and #flavorbomb on social media—we can’t wait to see how you’re spicing things up. For more bold recipes and kitchen hacks, subscribe to our newsletter and get fresh ideas delivered straight to your inbox.
Happy cooking, and here’s to meals that pack a punch!