This easy garlic butter recipe is one of my go-to staples, and once you make it yourself, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the store-bought kind.
This easy garlic butter is the kind of kitchen staple you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with bold garlic flavor. The kind that makes every bite feel just a little more special.
Perfect for spreading on garlic bread, tossing into pasta, or melting onto meats or veggies, it’s one of those simple little upgrades that turns everyday meals into something crave-worthy.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful, creamy spread that’s ready in minutes and keeps well for days. Whether you’re a garlic lover or just looking for a quick way to elevate your cooking, this recipe is the perfect addition to your kitchen.
🧄 Why This Garlic Butter Recipe Works
There’s something about garlic butter that makes everything taste better. From warm crusty bread to a bowl of pasta or a sizzling steak.
- Quick & Easy. Just mix and serve. No cooking required.
- Versatile. Spread it on garlic bread, melt it over veggies or steak, stir it into pasta or mashed potatoes.
- Customizable. Adjust the herbs, salt, or type of garlic to suit your taste.
- Better than store-bought. No preservatives, and you control the flavor.
Easy Garlic Butter Recipe for Bread, Pasta, and More
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Unsalted Butter softened, 2 sticks
- 4 Cloves Fresh Garlic finely minced or grated
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Parsley chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- ½ Teaspoon Kosher Salt adjust to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for extra punch
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes Italian seasoning, or lemon zest
Instructions
- Soften the butter at room temperature until it’s easy to mix.1 Cup Unsalted Butter
- In a medium bowl, combine butter, garlic, salt, and herbs.4 Cloves Fresh Garlic, 1 Tablespoon Fresh Parsley, ½ Teaspoon Kosher Salt, Optional: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for extra punch, Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes
- Mix until smooth and fully combined. You can use a fork, spoon, or hand mixer.
- Taste and adjust salt or garlic to your liking.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Your Own Private Notes
Notes
Using Roasted Garlic
Swap raw garlic with 1–2 tablespoons of roasted garlic paste for a mellow, buttery flavor that’s less sharp — perfect for those who love garlic but want something gentler. It also spreads more easily.Soften Butter Easily
Forgot to take your butter out of the fridge? Cut it into small cubes and leave it on the counter for 10–15 minutes, or microwave it for just a few seconds on low power.Flavor Add-Ins
Try adding lemon zest, Parmesan, thyme, or Italian seasoning for more depth. For a seafood version, a squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness.Storing for Later
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.For longer storage, roll it into a log, wrap tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze in an ice cube tray for quick, individual portions.
Salted vs Unsalted Butter
If using salted butter, reduce or omit added salt and adjust to taste.Safety Tip
If you’re adding garlic oil or any fresh herbs, especially if stored in oil, always refrigerate and use within 3–4 days to avoid risk of bacteria growth. Never store garlic butter at room temperature.Nutrition
For Longer Storage
- Freeze. Roll into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Slice off a bit whenever you need a flavor boost.
- Ice cube tray. Freeze in small portions for easy use in cooking.
- Optional. Add olive oil for a softer, more spreadable texture straight from the fridge.
Favorite Ways to Use Garlic Butter
This garlic butter is so good on just about everything. Here are some of our favorite ways to use it:
- Garlic bread. Spread generously on sliced baguette, then bake until golden.
- Pasta. Stir into hot noodles for a quick garlic butter pasta.
- Steak or chicken. Melt a pat over hot grilled meat for bold flavor.
- Roasted vegetables. Toss with broccoli, carrots, or potatoes.
- Mashed potatoes. Mix in a spoonful for extra richness.
- Seafood. Use it with shrimp, scallops, or salmon.
- Corn on the cob. Next time you grill, brush it on hot corn.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Use roasted garlic cloves for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
- Try adding grated Parmesan, chopped chives, or basil.
- For a fancy touch, pipe it into rosettes for serving.
- Use individual garlic cloves or even garlic confit for a gourmet twist.
Homemade Garlic Butter
Garlic butter is one of those simple recipes that makes a big difference in your everyday cooking.
Keep it in your fridge for easy access. It’s perfect for last-minute side dishes or when your meal just needs a little something extra. It’s no wonder it’s a favorite ingredient in our farmhouse kitchen.
easy and delicious for those special occasions