Bring bold, smoky flavor to grilled steaks, chicken, or seafood with this easy Cowboy Butter — a classic compound butter inspired by campfire cooking in the American West.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1½ tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of ½ a lemon
- ¾ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the Butter: In a medium bowl, add the softened butter, Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until fully combined. This makes about ⅔ cup.
- Shape & Chill: Spoon the butter onto a piece of plastic wrap. Roll it into a tight log and twist the ends of the plastic wrap to seal. Refrigerate until firm.
- Store: Keep Cowboy Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days — or freeze for later use.
How to Use It
- Melt over a sizzling ribeye steak.
- Top grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp.
- Stir into roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
