This homemade garlic herb butter is a rich, aromatic compound butter perfect for enhancing steaks, chicken, shrimp, vegetables, pasta, or simply spreading over warm bread. With just a few fresh herbs and pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-worthy topping in minutes. Keep a log in your refrigerator or freezer for effortless flavor anytime.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic herb butter is incredibly simple yet elevates any dish it touches. It requires minimal ingredients, mixes together quickly, and stores beautifully for long-term use. Fresh herbs and minced garlic add depth, while high-quality butter provides a silky, luxurious texture. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a special dinner, this compound butter brings instant gourmet flair.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions
Place the softened butter into a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork or spoon to mash and cream it until smooth.
Add the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Stir until the herbs and garlic are evenly incorporated.
Use immediately, or shape the butter into a log:
Tear a 12-inch piece of wax paper and place the butter mixture along the edge.
Form into a 6- to 8-inch log, roll tightly in the wax paper, and twist the ends to seal.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the log to firm before slicing. Use with steak, chicken, shrimp, pasta, vegetables, or bread.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours (or 30–45 minutes in the freezer)
Total time: About 2 hours 10 minutes with chilling
Variations
Add lemon zest for a bright, fresh twist.
Mix in red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Swap parsley for cilantro and add lime zest for a vibrant flavor profile.
Substitute ghee for a paleo-friendly option or use dairy-free butter sticks for a vegan version.
Use roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter, mellow flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerator: Store the butter log tightly wrapped for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Slice portions as needed.
Reheating: Not necessary; allow the butter to soften at room temperature for a few minutes before use, or place a slice onto hot food so it melts naturally.
FAQs
Is garlic herb butter keto?
Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
Can I leave garlic herb butter out overnight?
No. Because it contains fresh garlic and dairy, it should not sit out for extended periods. Keep it refrigerated when not in use.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I add lemon zest to this recipe?
Absolutely. Lemon zest pairs beautifully with herbs and brightens the flavor.
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes. Unsalted butter works well and lets you control the salt level. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
Can I freeze garlic herb butter?
Yes. This butter freezes very well for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Do I need to roast the garlic first?
No. Fresh minced garlic works perfectly, but roasted garlic can be used for a milder, sweeter taste.
Can I store it in a container instead of forming a log?
Yes. A small airtight container works just as well and may be more convenient for spreading.
Should the butter be softened before mixing?
Yes. Softened butter is essential for achieving a smooth, well-blended mixture.
What dishes pair best with garlic herb butter?
Steak, chicken, shrimp, roasted vegetables, pasta, bread, baked potatoes, and corn on the cob are all excellent options.
Conclusion
This homemade garlic herb butter delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Fresh herbs and garlic transform simple butter into a gourmet condiment you can use across countless dishes. Keep a batch ready in your refrigerator or freezer, and enjoy how effortlessly it enhances everyday meals.
This homemade garlic herb butter is a flavorful compound butter made with fresh herbs and garlic, perfect for elevating steaks, seafood, pasta, vegetables, or spreading over warm bread. Quick to make and easy to store, it’s a gourmet touch ready anytime.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
Place the softened butter into a medium mixing bowl and mash until smooth.
Add the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Mix until evenly combined.
To shape into a log, place the butter mixture on a 12-inch piece of wax paper, roll into a 6- to 8-inch log, and twist the ends to seal.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm, or freeze for 30–45 minutes for quicker results.
Slice and use as needed with steak, chicken, shrimp, vegetables, pasta, or bread.
Notes
Add lemon zest for brightness.
Use red pepper flakes for heat.
Swap parsley with cilantro and add lime zest for a vibrant variation.
