Cowboy Butter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Butter is a bold, flavorful compound butter packed with garlic, herbs, lemon, and a touch of heat. Perfect as a dip for steak, shrimp, or vegetables, or melted over grilled meats, this buttery blend brings a savory, zesty punch that’s ideal for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. It’s easy to make and incredibly versatile.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted buttergarlic clovesDijon mustardlemon juicelemon zestchopped fresh parsleycrushed red pepper flakessmoked paprikaground black peppersaltthyme (fresh or dried)chives (optional)Worcestershire sauce

directions

Soften the butter at room temperature until spreadable.

In a bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Add chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, thyme, and chives if using.

Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the butter is smooth.

Transfer the mixture to a small serving bowl or roll into a log using parchment paper for slicing later.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve cold as a spread or let melt over hot dishes.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of Cowboy Butter.Preparation time: 10 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Mix in grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist.

Use lime juice and cilantro instead of lemon and parsley for a southwestern flavor.

Add finely chopped shallots for a deeper savory note.

Swap Dijon mustard with whole-grain mustard for texture.

storage/reheating

Store Cowboy Butter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.You can freeze it for up to 3 months—wrap in parchment and seal in a freezer-safe bag.To reheat, gently melt in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts.

FAQs

What is Cowboy Butter used for?

It’s great as a dip for steak, seafood, or veggies, and delicious melted over grilled meats or corn.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce added salt to taste.

Is it spicy?

It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes—adjust to your spice preference.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for prepping in advance and storing.

Can I use dried herbs?

Yes, but fresh herbs give a brighter flavor. If using dried, reduce the quantity by half.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, Cowboy Butter is low-carb and high-fat, ideal for keto diets.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor, but margarine can be substituted if needed.

Can it be served warm?

Yes, it’s delicious melted and served warm as a sauce.

How do I form it into a log?

Place on parchment, shape into a cylinder, roll up, twist ends, and chill until firm.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute with a splash of soy sauce or omit entirely.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter is a powerhouse of flavor that can elevate nearly any dish, from grilled meats to fresh veggies. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this zesty, herbed butter is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, savory taste with a hint of spice. Keep it on hand for your next meal—it’s sure to impress

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