Butter for Steak

Featured in Beef.

Tried this buttery mix for steaks and wow - it transforms the flavor! Made it in 10 minutes and stored extra in the freezer. Works great on bread, veggies, or even chicken. Let it soften first so those bright herbs and garlic pop. Everyone I’ve served it to now asks how they can make it!
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Updated on Sun, 20 Apr 2025 15:35:41 GMT
Close shot of golden buttery sauce being stirred gently. Pin it
Close shot of golden buttery sauce being stirred gently. | tasteofmoms.com

I found Cowboy Butter during a random kitchen experiment and it totally changed how I cook steaks forever. This buttery blend packed with herbs, smoky paprika and tangy garlic has turned into my go-to kitchen trick. Everyone asks for my recipe whenever I serve it. You can use it in so many ways – either as a warm drizzle or cool it down for a fancy flavored butter.

Why This Sauce Stands Out

The wonder of this butter mix comes from its knockout flavor combo. It's amazing how it can turn a basic steak into something you'd pay good money for at a restaurant. I sometimes pour it over my grilled chicken or even my roasted veggies. And guess what? You can make it in just a few minutes and keep it in your fridge for whenever your meal needs that extra bit of wow.

A perfectly cooked steak topped with a flavorful sauce, accompanied by a side of golden french fries. Pin it
A perfectly cooked steak topped with a flavorful sauce, accompanied by a side of golden french fries. | tasteofmoms.com

Your Kitchen Essentials

  • Butter: Unsalted works best so you can add just the right amount of salt yourself.
  • Fresh Herbs: Thyme, chives and parsley work together to create an amazing fresh taste.
  • Dijon Mustard: A little spoon gives it that perfect slight tang.
  • Garlic: Don't even think about using the jarred stuff, fresh is a must for real flavor.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This brings that deep, rich taste everyone craves.
  • Smoked Paprika: My hidden gem that adds beautiful color and smoky goodness.
  • Chili Flakes: Toss these in when you want it spicy.
  • Lemon Juice: Squeeze it fresh to add that zingy pop.

Creating Kitchen Wonders

Prep Your Butter
Break your butter into small pieces and let it soften at room temp. Don't rush with the microwave, it'll get too runny. We want it just soft enough to mix everything in.
Mix Everything Up
Now for the good part. Stir in all the herbs, garlic and spices until every bit of butter gets a flavor upgrade. It's pretty cool watching plain butter change as everything swirls through it.
Serve It Two Ways
You've got options here. Wrap it up in some parchment paper and chill for nice sliceable rounds, or warm it gently for the most amazing sauce. Both are killer with steak.

Nailing Your Steak Game

I've spent years figuring out how to cook steak just right. Always start with meat that's not cold from the fridge, it really does make cooking more even. Grab some paper towels and dry that steak completely, it's how you get that tasty brown crust. Don't be shy with salt and pepper, and make sure your pan is super hot before the meat touches it. The toughest part is waiting while it rests, but don't skip it if you want juicy meat.

A perfectly cooked steak topped with a flavorful sauce, accompanied by a side of golden french fries. Pin it
A perfectly cooked steak topped with a flavorful sauce, accompanied by a side of golden french fries. | tasteofmoms.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps in the fridge for 4-5 days and actually tastes better as the flavors meld. You can also pop it in the freezer for later.
→ Why does the butter need to be soft first?
Soft butter blends seamlessly with the herbs and spices. It should be easily spreadable but not completely liquefied.
→ What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can dried ones work?
Fresh herbs bring out the best taste, but if needed, use dried herbs—just a third of the amount because they’re more potent.
→ How much should I put on my steak?
A tablespoon for each steak is a good start. Adjust it to your taste since the recipe makes plenty to store for later.
→ Can I make it less spicy?
Of course, simply cut back on the chili flakes. Add more later if you want a bit of extra heat.

Butter for Steak

Creamy herbed butter with parsley, garlic, and spices. A quick go-to sauce for any steak.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
5 Minutes
Total Time
15 Minutes
By: Ashley

Category: Beef

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (8 tablespoons butter)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 220g / 8oz sirloin steaks (2 pieces).
02 1 garlic clove, grated finely.
03 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable).
04 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
05 ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.
06 ½ teaspoon fresh thyme, very finely chopped.
07 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley.
08 ½ teaspoon chili flakes.
09 ½ teaspoon Worcestershire.
10 ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika.
11 2 teaspoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice.
12 ¾ teaspoon salt.
13 8 tablespoons soft, unsalted butter.
14 1 tablespoon fresh chives, diced finely.

Instructions

Step 01

In a bowl, mash the softened butter together with chopped herbs, grated garlic, mustard, lemon, and other seasonings.

Step 02

Dry the steaks using a paper towel. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper evenly.

Step 03

Place a sturdy pan on high heat until it’s really hot. Drizzle the oil and wait a moment.

Step 04

Without moving, sear the steaks for 2 minutes on each side for medium-rare.

Step 05

Remove steaks from heat and give them 5 minutes to rest before serving.

Step 06

Spoon as much cowboy butter as you’d like on top of the steaks.

Notes

  1. Butter should feel soft but not melted.
  2. You can store the butter for 4 to 5 days in the fridge.
  3. Goes great with any steak cut of your choice.
  4. Extra butter can be frozen for later.

Tools You'll Need

  • Heavy skillet or pan.
  • Tongs for flipping.
  • Small bowl for butter mix.
  • Knife for chopping.
  • Sturdy cutting board.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains butter (dairy).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 105
  • Total Fat: 11.59 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~