Homemade Garlic Butter is a versatile and delicious condiment that adds rich flavor to a variety of dishes. Perfect for spreading on bread, tossing with pasta, or using as a marinade for meats and vegetables, this simple recipe is a must-have in any kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Timing
Making Homemade Garlic Butter takes about 10 minutes for preparation.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Soften Butter: Ensure the unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. If it’s too hard, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.
Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper (if using), and lemon juice (if using).
- Mix Well: Use a fork or a spatula to mix all the ingredients together until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Store the Garlic Butter
- Transfer to Container: Spoon the garlic butter into a small airtight container or roll it into a log shape using parchment paper.
- Chill: If using a log shape, refrigerate until firm. This will make it easier to slice. The garlic butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread on Bread: Use it to make garlic bread by spreading it on sliced baguette or Italian bread and toasting in the oven.
- Toss with Pasta: Melt it over hot pasta for a quick and flavorful dish.
- Use as a Marinade: Brush it on grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables for added flavor.
- Flavor Vegetables: Toss steamed or roasted vegetables with garlic butter for a delicious side dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Homemade Garlic Butter (per tablespoon, based on 16 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
Tips for Customization
- Herb Variations: Add other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for different flavor profiles.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Cheesy Garlic Butter: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
Conclusion
Homemade Garlic Butter is an easy and flavorful addition to many dishes, enhancing meals with its rich, garlicky goodness. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your cooking and impress your guests!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter; just be mindful of the added salt in the recipe.
How can I soften butter quickly?
To soften butter quickly, cut it into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave it for a few seconds as mentioned above.
Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- • 4–6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)
- • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Soften Butter: Ensure the unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. If it’s too hard, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.
Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper (if using), and lemon juice (if using).
- Mix Well: Use a fork or a spatula to mix all the ingredients together until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Store the Garlic Butter
- Transfer to Container: Spoon the garlic butter into a small airtight container or roll it into a log shape using parchment paper.
- Chill: If using a log shape, refrigerate until firm. This will make it easier to slice. The garlic butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months.
