Garlic Herb Butter Spread

This Garlic Herb Butter brings an easy way to add rich, fresh flavor to everything from steaks to vegetables, breads, and beyond. It transforms simple dishes with just a handful of ingredients and little effort. Whether you’re looking to elevate weeknight dinners or add a cozy touch to weekend meals, this flavorful butter is sure to impress and satisfy.

I first made this butter when experimenting with compound butters and quickly realized how much a simple mix can totally change a meal. Now it’s a staple in my fridge, especially when I need a quick boost for roasted potatoes or grilled meats.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: One cup very soft but not melted for the perfect creamy base
• Parsley: Two tablespoons fresh finely chopped which adds a bright herbal note
• Thyme: One tablespoon fresh finely chopped brings an earthy depth
• Chives: One tablespoon fresh finely sliced offers mild onion flavor
• Garlic: One teaspoon minced brings that essential pungent bite
• Kosher salt: Three quarters teaspoon to balance and enhance all flavors
• Cracked black pepper: One quarter teaspoon for gentle heat and complexity
• Notes: Use fresh herbs when possible for the best vibrant taste. When softening butter quickly, leave it out at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes or cut it into smaller pieces to speed the process.

Instructions

Place the Aromatics and Butter Together:

Put the softened butter in a medium-sized bowl. Add the freshly chopped parsley, thyme, chives, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Combine Thoroughly:

Stir everything with a spatula or spoon until the butter and herbs are completely mixed. Make sure the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.

Shape the Butter into a Log:

Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on your countertop. Spoon the butter mixture onto the center and shape it into a rough log using the back of the spatula.

Wrap and Chill:

Roll the plastic wrap tightly around the butter log, twisting the ends just like a candy wrapper to seal it well. Flatten and press the log gently to smooth its shape and tuck the ends under.

Refrigerate to Set:

Place the wrapped butter in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight until firm. This resting time allows the flavors to marry and the butter to harden for easy slicing.

Slice and Serve:

Once chilled and solid, unwrap the butter and slice into rounds or pats. Use immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to use.

I love the fresh garlic in this recipe because it punches up the flavor without overpowering the subtle herb notes. One memorable family dinner involved a quick roast chicken finished with slices of this butter that melted instantly, creating the perfect juicy, aromatic dish that got everyone raving.

Storage Tips

Store this butter wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Label the date so you keep track of freshness. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing or use directly for cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you only have salted butter, simply omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid oversalting. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch but reduce the quantity to one teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh. Garlic powder can substitute fresh garlic but the flavor will be milder.

Serving Suggestions

Use sliced rounds on warm bread or toast for instant garlic herb bread. Melt a pat over steamed or roasted vegetables to add richness. It also makes a fantastic finishing touch over grilled steak, chicken, or fish. Toss the butter with hot cooked pasta for a simple herbaceous sauce.

Enjoy this versatile garlic herb butter on breads, vegetables, and grilled meats for an instant flavor boost.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, salted butter can be used. If you choose salted butter, simply omit the additional salt in the mixture to maintain the right balance.

→ Are dried herbs a suitable substitute for fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work well, but use about one-third the amount of fresh herbs since they are more concentrated in flavor.

→ What dishes pair well with garlic herb butter?

This butter is delicious on steaks, vegetables, potatoes, and breads. It also adds richness when melted into cooked pasta or used for sautéing.

→ How long should the butter be refrigerated before use?

Chill the herb butter for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend fully, though it can be used immediately if needed.

→ How can I store the garlic herb butter for longer shelf life?

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 6 months to preserve freshness.