Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with a simple yet incredibly flavorful ingredient? Garlic butter is the answer! This easy recipe uses readily available garlic powder, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or adding a gourmet touch to your favorite dishes. Forget complicated techniques – this homemade garlic butter is unbelievably quick to make and delivers a rich, garlicky punch that will transform everything from roasted vegetables to steak. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for extra flavor and color)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. This makes it much easier to mix with the other ingredients. You can speed up the process by cutting the butter into smaller pieces and leaving it out for about 30 minutes.
Mix it Up:
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In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using).
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Using a spatula or a fork, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are completely incorporated and the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
Store and Enjoy:
- Transfer the garlic butter to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter:
- Unsalted Butter is Key: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in your garlic butter. This gives you more flexibility when using it in different dishes.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder to your preference. If you love a strong garlic flavor, add a little more!
- Fresh Herbs: For an even more intense flavor, consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives along with the dried parsley.
- Experiment with Spices: Get creative! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or try adding other herbs like oregano or thyme.
Delicious Ways to Use Your Garlic Butter:
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables (broccoli, carrots, asparagus) with garlic butter before roasting for an incredibly flavorful side dish.
- Steak: Spread garlic butter on top of your steak during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious, flavorful crust.
- Pasta: Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and some freshly chopped parsley for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Seafood: Garlic butter is a fantastic topping for grilled or baked fish and shellfish.
- Bread: Spread it on crusty bread or use it to make garlic bread.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
- Calories: Approximately 100
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: Approximately 60mg
This easy garlic butter recipe is a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Its simple preparation and incredible flavor make it a staple ingredient for countless delicious dishes. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive gourmet meals, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the savory taste of garlic. Enjoy!