Garlic Herb Butter Recipe

Garlic Herb Butter is a kitchen secret that instantly elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Spread it generously on a crusty baguette, swirl it into hot pasta, or melt it over grilled steak—the savory aroma of fresh garlic and parsley mingling with creamy butter is pure, flavorful bliss! With only a handful of simple ingredients, this little recipe delivers vibrant taste and endless versatility, making it a must-have staple you’ll want on hand for quick weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You might be surprised by just how easy it is to whip up this delightful Garlic Herb Butter. Each ingredient plays a unique role: providing richness, aroma, and that classic pop of green color. Don’t skip or substitute any components—together, they create the perfect balance of flavor and freshness!

• Unsalted Butter: The creamy base that ties all the flavors together; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped parsley brings a burst of herby brightness and a dash of vibrant color.
• Garlic Clove: Minced garlic is the star, giving the butter its irresistible savory aroma and flavor.
• Salt: Just a touch heightens every other flavor and ensures your butter is perfectly seasoned.

How to Make Garlic Herb Butter

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Start by adding your softened unsalted butter to a small mixing bowl. The soft texture makes it so much easier to blend in the herbs and garlic, giving your Garlic Herb Butter that plush, creamy consistency. Don’t rush this step—a little patience with softening is worth the payoff!

Step 2: Add Herbs and Garlic

Sprinkle in the freshly chopped parsley and minced garlic. These fresh ingredients transform plain butter into something extraordinary, infusing each bite with a lively, aromatic flavor. Remember, the smaller you chop the parsley and garlic, the smoother your final Garlic Herb Butter will be.

Step 3: Season and Mix

Add the salt and stir everything together until it’s fully combined. The goal here is to evenly distribute the parsley and garlic throughout the butter, ensuring each slice brims with flavor. Take a minute to scrape down the sides and mix thoroughly—no bites left behind!

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Spoon the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, and gently roll it into a log shape. Twist the ends to seal, then refrigerate until firm. This not only makes your Garlic Herb Butter easy to slice, but also helps the flavors meld. If you’re short on time, a quick stint in the freezer will speed things along.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Butter

Garnishes

A little flourish never hurts! Before serving, consider topping your slices of Garlic Herb Butter with extra chopped parsley or a sprinkling of flaky sea salt. This adds fresh color and a little gourmet touch—your guests will think you spent ages preparing.

Side Dishes

This butter is the ultimate finishing touch on all sorts of dishes. Dollop it onto grilled steaks, toss it with steamed vegetables, or let it melt over just-cooked pasta. For bread lovers, there’s nothing better than spreading it on warm rolls or toasted baguette slices.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful! Try piping rosettes with a pastry bag for an elegant tray, or shape your Garlic Herb Butter into medallions for individual servings. Serve it on a slate board with roasted garlic cloves, olives, and cheese for an unforgettable appetizer spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After using your Garlic Herb Butter, wrap the remaining log tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to one week, so you can always have a burst of flavor ready at your fingertips.

Freezing

Need to stash some for later? Garlic Herb Butter freezes extremely well. Wrap your log in plastic, then foil, and pop it in the freezer for up to three months. Just slice off what you need—no thawing required!

Reheating

There’s no need for complicated reheating. Simply take your butter out of the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften, or melt it directly onto hot foods. The flavor permeates beautifully without any fuss.

FAQs

Can I use other herbs besides parsley?

Absolutely! While parsley keeps things classic, chives, dill, basil, or thyme are all delicious in Garlic Herb Butter. Mix and match to suit your preference or the meal you’re serving.

Is it okay to use salted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to taste before adding extra salt. This ensures your Garlic Herb Butter won’t end up too salty.

Can I make Garlic Herb Butter without fresh herbs?

If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried parsley is a suitable substitute—just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, fresh parsley will give the brightest flavor and color.

How do I make the butter softer for spreading?

Simply let your Garlic Herb Butter sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will make it perfectly spreadable without melting.

What’s the best way to slice the butter log?

Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife and run it under hot water before slicing. This will help you get clean, even rounds without sticking.

Final Thoughts

Once you see how effortlessly Garlic Herb Butter transforms simple dishes, it might just become your new secret ingredient. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is, and your meals will never be the same again!

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