This simple Garlic Herb Compound Butter is ideal for a steak, grilled salmon, or a big baked potato. It’s easy to make, freezes well, and is a great way to add fresh flavor to many dishes. Make a double batch and keep a log in the freezer for an effortless finishing touch whenever you need it.
Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Compound butters are a restaurant staple that are surprisingly simple to prepare at home. This version combines fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and high-quality butter for a bright, savory spread. It takes only a few minutes to mix, then you shape it into a log and chill it in the refrigerator or freezer. Slice off rounds as needed to top steaks, seafood, vegetables, or warm bread.
Try it on smoked baked potatoes, grilled lobster tail, filet mignon, or any favorite steak. The herb and garlic notes complement rich proteins and elevate simple sides.
Try this on warm dinner rolls or crusty bread for an easy appetizer.
Recipe Shopping List
Here’s what you’ll need. For exact amounts, see the recipe card below.
- Unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh sage
- Chives
- Rosemary
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Black pepper
- Salt
Pair with a grilled tomahawk ribeye or other hearty steaks.
How To Make This Recipe
Below is a quick overview of the steps. Use the full recipe card at the end for precise measurements and timing.
- Combine – Mash the softened butter in a bowl, then stir in finely minced herbs, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed.
- Roll – Place the mixture on a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment, shape into a tight log, and twist the ends to seal.
- Chill – Refrigerate for several hours or freeze for faster setting until firm enough to slice.
- Slice and Serve – Cut into ½” rounds and top steaks, seafood, baked potatoes, or bread.
Also excellent with crab legs or other shellfish.
Recipe FAQ
A high-quality butter like Irish butter (Kerrygold) adds a richer flavor, but any good unsalted butter will work well.
Wrap the log tightly and store in the refrigerator for short-term use, or freeze in an airtight bag for longer storage.
You can, but fresh herbs provide brighter flavor and a better texture for compound butter.
Spread on garlic bread twists or warm rolls for a quick upgrade.
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Garlic Herb Compound Butter
6 servings
10 minutes
10 minutes
Easy Garlic Herb Compound Butter comes together quickly and brightens seafood, steak, and fresh bread with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon finely minced thyme
- 1 teaspoon finely minced sage
- 1 teaspoon finely minced chives
- 1 teaspoon finely minced rosemary
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Add the softened butter to a small bowl and mash with a fork. Stir in the herbs, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape into a tight log and twist the ends to seal.
- Freeze for 30–60 minutes for quicker firming, or chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6
Serving Size: 1
Amounts Per Serving:
Calories: 138
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 41mg
Sodium: 55mg
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 0g
Nutrition data provided here is an estimate.
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