Get ready to savor your meal with this Easy Cowboy Butter Recipe: Perfect for Grilled Meats and Vegetables! This recipe combines butter with fresh herbs, spices, and zesty lemon, creating a compound butter that will improve any dish. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for a new way to jazz up your meals, let Cowboy Butter be your go-to condiment.

Cowboy Butter is a flavorful compound butter that originated as a way to add a rich, spicy touch to grilled meats and vegetables. Combining butter with fresh herbs, spices, garlic, and lemon juice, this butter is perfect for enhancing the taste of any dish.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: Packed with spices, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- Versatile: Perfect for meats, vegetables, bread, and more.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps for a delicious result.
- Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests with a unique, homemade condiment.
If you like this sauce and seasoning recipe, you may also love our Cajun Sauce or Lemon Garlic Butter.
Jump to:
Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature for quicker melting.
- Paprika and Cayenne Pepper: Add a smoky and spicy kick.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Brighten up the butter with a citrusy note.
- Fresh Herbs (Chives and Parsley): Finely chopped for a burst of freshness.
- Garlic: Chopped to infuse the butter with its rich aroma.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy depth to the flavor.
- Kosher Salt and Red Pepper Flakes: Enhance the taste and add a bit of heat.
- Dried Thyme: Complements the fresh herbs with its earthy flavor.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Instructions
How to Make Easy Cowboy Butter
STEP ONE: Prepare the Butter
In a medium skillet over low heat, melt the butter and garlic.
STEP TWO: Add the Flavors
Add paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon zest, chives, salt, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, parsley, and thyme to the melted butter. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, while stirring, until the garlic is fragrant and the ingredients are well combined.
STEP THREE: Cool and Shape
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator to solidify further.
When solid, transfer onto a piece of plastic wrap. Cover and pound with a mallet, if needed, to break up the solid pieces. Shape the portion into a log or a disk and wrap tightly.
STEP FOUR: Refrigerate and Serve
Place the wrapped butter log in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Slice as needed and serve with your favorite dishes.
What Can I Substitute in this Recipe?
- Butter: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh Herbs: Substitute with dried herbs if fresh ones are unavailable.
- Dijon Mustard: Swap with whole grain mustard for a different texture.
How Can I Customize this Recipe?
- Presentation: Roll the butter in plastic wrap to form a log for easier slicing.
How Should I Store and Reheat this Recipe?
Store wrapped Cowboy Butter in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
👩🍳 Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and more meal prep hacks!
Expert Tips for Success
For the best Cowboy Butter, all ingredients should be well mixed.
If the butter separates, whisk it vigorously. Reheat by melting it in a skillet over low heat.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover herbs in a fresh garden salad or try these Instant Pot Baby Red Potatoes with Garlic Butter.
- Incorporate garlic into these Buffalo Chicken Wings with Homemade Garlic Buffalo Sauce
- Add Dijon mustard to these Baked Crab Cakes.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Serve with grilled ribeye steak or Medium Rare Filet Mignon.
- Use as a topping for baked potatoes or Easy Air Fryer Potato Wedges.
- Spread on crusty bread for a flavorful appetizer.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Herb Garlic Butter
- Spicy Chipotle Butter
- Lemon Herb Butter
- Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Related
More sauce and seasoning recipes you will love:
FAQ
Store leftover Cowboy Butter by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Yes, you can make Cowboy Butter spicier by increasing the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. You can also add a splash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of chipotle powder for extra heat.
Cowboy Butter pairs well with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, and pork. It also complements roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, and fresh bread. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for seafood or spread on sandwiches for added flavor.
📖 Recipe
Easy Cowboy Butter Recipe: Perfect for Grilled Meats and Vegetables
Equipment
- Skillet
- Plastic Wrap
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsalted butter softened (4 sticks,cubed)
- 3 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ lemon juice and zest
- ¼ cup fresh chives finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 whole head of garlic chopped
- 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- In a medium skillet over low heat, melt the butter and garlic.
- Add paprika, cayenne pepper, lemon zest, chives, salt, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, parsley, and thyme to the melted butter. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, while stirring, until the garlic is fragrant and the ingredients are well combined.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator to solidify further.
- When solid, transfer onto a piece of plastic wrap. Cover and pound with a mallet, if needed, to break up the solid pieces. Shape the portion into a log or a disk and wrap tightly.
- Place the wrapped butter log in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Slice as needed and serve with your favorite dishes.
Nutrition
This Easy Cowboy Butter Recipe is a surefire way to add bold flavor to your meals.
Try it out and share your results with us!
Always use fresh ingredients and store Cowboy Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. Make sure it is properly labeled and consumed within the recommended time frame.
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