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Ingredients to Make Garlic Herb Butter

Garlic Herb Compound Butter

This homemade garlic herb compound butter is rich, savory, and incredibly versatile. Made with fresh garlic, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and a touch of honey for balance, this compound butter melts beautifully over chicken, steak, vegetables, potatoes, seafood, and fresh bread. It is especially perfect for adding flavor beneath the skin of roast chicken for juicy meat and crispy golden skin.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 tablespoons
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp honey
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spoon or silicone spatula
  • Microplane or zester
  • Garlic press or knife
  • Plastic wrap or parchment paper (optional for shaping)

Method
 

  1. Allow the butter to sit at room temperature until soft and easy to mix, but not melted.
  2. Finely mince the garlic and herbs. Zest the lemon using a microplane or fine grater.
  3. Thoroughly mix all ingredients in a bowl until evenly combined.
    Herb Butter in a Bowl
    4. For immediate use, the butter can be used right away.
    For a firmer compound butter:
    - Spoon onto plastic wrap or parchment paper
    - Roll into a log shape
    - Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing

Notes

  • For dried herbs, use about one-third the amount compared to fresh.
  • A small amount of honey helps balance the garlic and encourages better browning when used for cooking.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
  • Try melting it over:
    • Steak
    • Potatoes
    • Corn
    • Roasted vegetables
    • Bread
    • Seafood