This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used as a spread, a finishing touch, or a cooking enhancer. The fresh herbs bring brightness, while the garlic adds bold, savory flavor. It stores well, making it perfect for meal prep and entertaining. Once you try homemade garlic herb butter, you’ll want to use it on everything.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
Mix in grated Parmesan cheese for extra savory flavor.
Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a milder, sweeter taste.
Incorporate fresh rosemary for a more robust herbal profile.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
Storage/Reheating
Store garlic herb butter wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze the butter log for up to 3 months. Slice off portions as needed and let them soften at room temperature before using. There is no need to reheat, as it will naturally melt over warm foods.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt to avoid making the butter too salty.
How long does garlic herb butter last?
It will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week when stored properly.
Can I freeze garlic herb butter?
Yes, freezing works very well. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What can I use garlic herb butter on?
It’s delicious on bread, steak, chicken, seafood, vegetables, pasta, and baked potatoes.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Why should the butter be softened?
Softened butter mixes more easily and ensures even distribution of the herbs and garlic.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
Is raw garlic too strong?
If you prefer a milder flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for preparing in advance and storing until needed.
Do I have to shape it into a log?
No, you can store it in a small container or ramekin if you prefer.
Conclusion
Garlic Herb Butter is a quick and flavorful way to enhance countless dishes with minimal effort. Its rich texture and fresh herb flavor make it a kitchen staple that’s both practical and impressive. Whether spread on warm bread or melting over grilled meats and vegetables, this simple recipe adds a delicious finishing touch to any meal.
This Garlic Herb Butter is a rich, flavorful compound butter made with fresh garlic, parsley, chives, and thyme blended into creamy butter. Perfect for spreading on bread, melting over steak, seafood, or vegetables, this easy Garlic Herb Butter recipe takes just minutes to prepare and adds gourmet flavor to everyday meals.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Yield:About 12 servings
Category:Condiment
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:French-Inspired / American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon lemon zest
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Place softened butter in a medium mixing bowl.
Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, thyme leaves, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
Mix thoroughly with a fork or spatula until evenly combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Transfer butter mixture onto parchment paper or plastic wrap.
Shape into a log and roll tightly, twisting the ends to seal.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Slice and serve as desired.
Notes
Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a milder, sweeter flavor.Add crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat.Mix in grated Parmesan for extra savory depth.Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used (reduce quantity to one-third).Butter must be softened for smooth mixing and even flavor distribution
