If you’ve ever wanted to elevate a simple dinner or add a burst of flavor to your meals, this Garlic Herb Butter Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Combining creamy butter with a perfect blend of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest, this recipe is incredibly simple yet packs a punch of flavor that can turn everyday dishes into something truly special. Whether you’re spreading it on warm bread, melting it over grilled veggies, or stirring it into hot pasta, this Garlic Herb Butter Recipe is pure magic in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for this Garlic Herb Butter Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, with each component playing an essential role in balancing flavor, texture, and color. These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, fragrant butter that’s both versatile and irresistible.
- Butter (1 stick, softened): The creamy base that holds all the flavors together and adds richness.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential for that bold, aromatic punch; fresh garlic keeps the flavor lively.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon) or soy sauce: Adds a subtle depth and savory umami note to enhance the butter.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon, finely grated, optional): Brings a fresh citrus brightness that lifts the butter without overpowering it.
- Dried garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the garlic flavor with a slow-building warmth.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Crucial for seasoning and balancing the overall taste perfectly.
- Fresh herbs (¼ cup, chopped – parsley and basil best): Adds vibrant green color and fresh, leafy flavors that are soft and delightful.
How to Make Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Aromatics
Begin by softening the butter to room temperature so it’s easy to work with. Using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, beat the butter together with minced garlic, lemon zest, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This step is all about building the base flavor—getting the garlic and seasonings fully incorporated into that luscious butter.
Step 2: Fold in Fresh Herbs Gently
Next, add the freshly chopped herbs to the butter mixture and switch the mixer to low speed just long enough to combine. Be careful not to overmix here because you want the herbs to remain vibrant and slightly textured rather than being crushed into a paste. The fresh parsley and basil will bring not only beautiful color but also a subtle freshness that perfectly complements the garlic.
Step 3: Shape the Butter Log
Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on your countertop, then spoon the compound butter onto the center. Using a spatula or your hands, shape the butter into an 8-inch by 1½-inch log. Wrap the plastic tightly around the butter, twisting the ends to secure. Pop your garlic herb butter log into the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour—this helps it firm up, making it super easy to slice and serve later.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little extra minced fresh herb on top of the butter when serving makes for a lovely, inviting presentation. A light drizzle of olive oil or a tiny zest of lemon over the sliced butter can also add an extra layer of freshness and appeal. These small touches elevate the simple compound butter and make your guests feel like they’re in for a real treat.
Side Dishes
Garlic herb butter shines when paired with warm, crusty bread or toasted baguette slices as a quick appetizer. It’s also sensational melted over roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or steamed vegetables. If you’re making steak, fish, or chicken, topping the finished dish with a pat of this butter as it melts creates a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider slicing the chilled butter into coins and placing them atop sizzling corn on the cob or freshly grilled shrimp. You can even mix small portions into mashed potatoes or swirl it into hot pasta for a burst of flavor. Serving individual slices on small dishes gives your meal an elegant touch without extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your garlic herb butter log has chilled and been sliced, you can store any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container within the refrigerator. It typically keeps well for about one to two weeks, staying fresh and flavorful for all your culinary needs.
Freezing
If you want to make Garlic Herb Butter Recipe in advance or in bulk, freezing is a fantastic option. Keep the butter log wrapped in plastic and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen garlic herb butter can last up to three months without losing any of its delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
Since this is butter, reheating simply means letting it come to room temperature before using or allowing a pat to melt naturally over hot dishes. Avoid microwaving directly, as that can separate the fats. Instead, pop it out ahead of time or place it atop warm food to gently spread and infuse your meal with all its wonderful tastes.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor and texture, you can substitute dried herbs in a pinch. Use about one-third the amount called for fresh and add them to the butter during the creaming stage to let their flavors infuse.
Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
Yes! Soy sauce is a great alternative, offering a similar umami boost. If you prefer, you can also leave it out, but the Worcestershire or soy sauce adds a subtle savory depth that enhances the overall profile.
How long does this butter last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly, the garlic herb butter can last for about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator without losing its freshness or flavor.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
You can, but fresh garlic really makes all the difference in both strength and aroma. If you use garlic powder only, increase the amount slightly and consider pairing it with a little onion powder for a richer flavor.
What dishes pair best with this Garlic Herb Butter Recipe?
This butter is wonderfully versatile—perfect for spreading on fresh bread, melting over grilled meats, stirring into pasta, or tossing with roasted vegetables. It’s an easy way to elevate almost any savory dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Garlic Herb Butter Recipe enough. It’s one of those simple culinary delights that brings so much joy and flavor to the table with very little effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, keep this recipe in your back pocket for those moments when you want to transform the ordinary into extraordinary. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen!
Print
Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus 1 hour chilling
- Yield: 12 servings (approximately 12 tablespoons of compound butter)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Garlic Herb Butter is a flavorful compound butter made with softened butter, garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest and Worcestershire sauce. It’s perfect for adding a delicious, aromatic touch to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or warm breads. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this butter brings vibrant herbal notes and a slight tang, making it a versatile kitchen staple.
Ingredients
Butter Mixture
- 1 stick butter (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Herbs
- ¼ cup fresh herbs, chopped (parsley and basil recommended; use only soft, leafy herbs)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter and Flavorings: Using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, beat the softened butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium mixing bowl. Continue mixing until the butter is creamy and well combined with the seasonings.
- Add the Fresh Herbs: Add the chopped herbs to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed briefly until the herbs are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent crushing the herbs too much.
- Shape and Chill: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Spread the compound butter mixture in the center, shaping it into a log approximately 8×1½ inches. Wrap the plastic tightly around the butter, forming a sausage shape, and twist the ends to seal. Place the wrapped butter in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before unwrapping and slicing to serve.
Notes
- For the freshest garlic flavor, mince the garlic just before making the butter to prevent bitterness and discoloration.
- Use only soft, leafy herbs like parsley, basil, chives, or tarragon for the best texture and flavor. Avoid woody herbs like rosemary or thyme as they can be too tough.
- This compound butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for several months.
- Feel free to customize with different herbs or add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
