Description

Bold, buttery, and packed with herbs—this zesty sauce is your go-to dip for grilled meats and more!

Ingredients

6 tablespoons melted butter (unsalted recommended for better control of saltiness)
Juice and zest of ½ lemon (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
4 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
A pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on preference)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by gently melting 6 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat, or microwave it in a heat-safe bowl in 10-second intervals. Stir occasionally to ensure it melts evenly. Do not let it brown or boil—just enough to fully liquefy. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Fresh Ingredients

While the butter cools slightly, zest half of a lemon and then juice it. Mince or finely grate 4 garlic cloves to ensure the garlic flavor disperses evenly through the sauce. Chop the parsley, chives, and thyme finely. Fresh herbs are key—they bring vibrancy and depth.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter with the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Whisk vigorously to combine into a smooth emulsion. This is where the flavor magic starts!

Step 4: Add Herbs and Spice

Now fold in the chopped parsley, chives, and thyme, followed by the red pepper flakes. Stir everything until the herbs are evenly distributed. This gives the sauce its beautiful green flecks and aromatic punch.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Give it one last stir and taste to adjust seasoning. Serve the Cowboy Butter Dipping Sauce warm, preferably in a small bowl or ramekin for dipping. You can also pour it over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even fresh bread.

Notes

This sauce is best served warm, right after mixing.
If it sits for too long and begins to separate, simply whisk or reheat it gently to recombine.
You can double or triple the batch easily if you’re feeding a crowd.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 95
Sodium: 75mg
Protein: 0g

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