Cowboy Butter is a delicious, flavored butter that enhances any meal. This versatile spread can elevate vegetables, meats, and even bread, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners. Cowboy Butter stands out with its zesty profile and fresh herbs, inviting everyone to dip in or spread generously. It’s an effortlessly simple recipe that brings bold flavors to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can whip up Cowboy Butter without any fuss.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich taste that complements various dishes.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a dip, spread, or even melted over grilled meats or vegetables.
• Make Ahead: This butter can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to five days.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a barbecue, dinner party, or casual family meal, Cowboy Butter fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Cowboy Butter, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the process and ensure a smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Plastic wrap
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk or spoon: This tool helps blend all components evenly for a consistent flavor throughout.
• Plastic wrap: Essential for shaping the butter into a log; it keeps the butter fresh while chilling.
• Airtight container: Perfect for storing your Cowboy Butter and maintaining its freshness for several days.

this recipe

Ingredients

Cowboy Butter is flavored butter that can be used as a dipping sauce or formed into a log to use as a spread.

Ingredients:
– ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, (softened)
– 1 tablespoon coarse Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon fresh chives, (chopped)
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, (chopped)
– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
– 2 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– ⅛ teaspoon pepper
– ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
– ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Cowboy Butter

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the softened butter, dijon mustard, chives, parsley, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne, and red pepper flakes. Mix together until combined. This will make about ⅔ cup of butter.

Step 2: Shape the Butter

To make a compound butter: Scoop the cowboy butter onto a piece of plastic wrap. Roll the butter into a log shape by pressing and shaping as you go until the butter is completely wrapped in plastic. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap together and refrigerate until firm (2 hours up to overnight).

Step 3: Melt for Dipping

To make a butter dip: Melt the mixture in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between until fully melted.

Step 4: Store Your Cowboy Butter

Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

With this simple recipe for Cowboy Butter at your fingertips, you can enhance your meals with minimal effort!

How to Serve Cowboy Butter

Cowboy Butter is a versatile condiment that can enhance many dishes. Whether as a dip or a spread, it brings a delightful flavor to your meals. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious flavored butter.

As a Dipping Sauce

• Pair with fresh vegetables: Use carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.
• Accompany seafood: It’s perfect for shrimp or crab legs, adding a zesty kick.
• Enjoy with bread: Warm crusty bread or soft rolls make an ideal accompaniment for dipping.

As a Spread

• Elevate sandwiches: Use Cowboy Butter on turkey or grilled chicken sandwiches for added flavor.
• Top baked potatoes: Spread over hot baked potatoes for a creamy, flavorful twist.
• Enhance charcuterie boards: Include it as part of your cheese platter for variety.

With Grilled Meats

• Drizzle over steak: Let the melted butter soak into grilled steak for an unforgettable taste.
• Add to grilled vegetables: Toss grilled veggies in Cowboy Butter for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Cowboy Butter

Creating the perfect Cowboy Butter is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your butter turns out amazing every time.

• Use room temperature butter: This allows for easier mixing and a smoother consistency.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like basil or oregano to customize the flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
• Incorporate citrus zest: Adding lemon or lime zest can brighten up the flavors even more.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the butter to firm up ensures it holds its shape when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cowboy Butter

Cowboy Butter pairs well with various side dishes, making them even more delicious. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside it.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Brush corn with Cowboy Butter after grilling for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Roasted Potatoes – Toss diced potatoes in olive oil and roast until crispy; then finish with a dollop of Cowboy Butter.
3. Steamed Broccoli – A simple vegetable that comes alive with the richness of flavored butter.
4. Cauliflower Mash – Mix in Cowboy Butter for creamy texture and delightful taste.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Top with Cowboy Butter for a sweet and savory combination.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted until golden, these sprouts are enhanced by melting Cowboy Butter on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cowboy Butter, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your flavored butter turns out perfectly.

• Bold Ingredients: Using low-quality or expired ingredients can affect the flavor. Always check the freshness of your herbs and spices before use.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Over-mixing can cause the butter to become too soft. Mix just until everything is combined for the best texture.
• Bold Storage Method: Not storing Cowboy Butter properly will lead to spoilage. Use an airtight container or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
• Bold Temperature Control: Forgetting to soften the butter can make mixing difficult. Allow your butter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Bold Measuring Errors: Inaccurate measurements can alter the flavor balance. Use measuring spoons and cups for precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cowboy Butter in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cowboy Butter

• Wrap Cowboy Butter in plastic wrap or store it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Cowboy Butter

• Oven: Preheat to low heat and place in an oven-safe dish until melted.
• Microwave: Heat in 20-second increments, stirring between sessions until fully melted.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring continuously until melted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cowboy Butter that might help you get started.

What is Cowboy Butter?

Cowboy Butter is a flavorful spread made from softened butter mixed with seasonings and herbs, perfect for dipping or spreading.

How do I use Cowboy Butter?

Cowboy Butter can be used as a dipping sauce for vegetables, seafood, or bread. It also works well as a flavorful spread on steaks and sandwiches.

Can I customize my Cowboy Butter?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs, spices, or even citrus zest to create your own unique version of Cowboy Butter.

How long does Cowboy Butter last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Cowboy Butter lasts up to 5 days. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Cowboy Butter is a versatile and delicious addition to many dishes. It’s perfect for elevating meals while being easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich flavors that enhance any dish!

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Cowboy Butter

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 37 minute
• Yield: Approximately ten servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Cowboy Butter is a vibrant and flavorful compound butter that takes your meals to the next level. This zesty spread combines fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice to create a rich blend that enhances everything from grilled meats to fresh vegetables and warm bread. Perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or cozy dinners at home, Cowboy Butter is easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time. Just a small dollop can elevate your dish, making it a must-have addition to your culinary repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tablespoon coarse Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mix softened butter with Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
2. Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap and shape into a log. Twist the ends of the wrap to secure it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight until firm.
3. For dipping sauce: Melt in the microwave in 20-second increments until fully melted.
4. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (14g)
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Use room temperature butter for easier mixing. Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs or citrus zest for unique flavors. Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.