Garlic Butter Spread Recipe

Is there anything better than a warm slice of bread slathered with creamy, garlicky goodness? This Garlic Butter Spread is incredibly versatile, rich, and packed with flavor. Whether you're using it as a spread for bread, a topping for steaks, or a flavorful addition to vegetables, this recipe is a must-have for your kitchen. Keep reading to learn how to make the ultimate garlic butter spread and elevate your meals with just a few simple ingredients.

this Recipe

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What is Garlic Butter Spread?

Garlic Butter Spread is a delicious combination of softened butter, fresh garlic, and herbs that creates a creamy, savory, and aromatic condiment. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be used in countless ways, from spreading on toast and garlic bread to melting over steaks, seafood, or veggies. The rich flavor of butter combined with the bold, pungent taste of garlic makes this spread irresistible.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Spread

To make this easy garlic butter spread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks, softened at room temperature)
• Fresh garlic (4 cloves, minced finely)
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon, for extra creaminess and flavor)
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
• Salt (½ teaspoon, to taste)
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon, freshly ground)
• Lemon juice (optional, 1 teaspoon, for a touch of brightness)

These ingredients create a rich, garlicky spread that can be used immediately or stored for future use. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a mild herbal flavor, while the olive oil helps make the spread even creamier.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Butter Spread (Continued)

For a bit of variation or added flavor, here are some additional ingredients you can consider:

• Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons, grated, for a cheesy twist)
• Thyme or rosemary (1 tablespoon, fresh, finely chopped, for extra herbs)
• Chili flakes (a pinch, for a spicy kick)
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon, if you want an extra garlicky flavor in addition to the fresh garlic)
• Roasted garlic (substitute fresh garlic with roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor)

These variations allow you to customize the garlic butter spread according to your personal preferences or the specific dish you're preparing.

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Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to make this garlic butter spread your own:

• Butter Substitutes: If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use vegan butter or margarine in place of regular butter. For a healthier alternative, try using a mix of butter and olive oil.
• Herbs: While parsley is a classic herb in garlic butter, you can switch it out for other herbs like basil, oregano, or chives for a different flavor profile. You can also use dried herbs if fresh herbs aren’t available, though fresh herbs will give the spread a brighter, more vibrant taste.
• Roasted Garlic: For a sweeter, more subtle garlic flavor, roast the garlic cloves in the oven before mixing them into the butter. Simply wrap the garlic in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes until soft and caramelized.
• Cheese: Add some grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese for a cheesy, savory twist on your garlic butter. This is especially delicious when used to make garlic bread or when melted over vegetables.

These substitutions and variations provide endless possibilities for customizing your garlic butter spread to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Soften the Butter
   Begin by letting your butter soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. Soft butter is easier to mix and will create a smoother, more even spread. If you're in a hurry, you can soften the butter in the microwave by heating it for 10-15 seconds at a time.
2. Mince the Garlic
   While the butter softens, finely mince the garlic cloves. You want the garlic to be very fine so that it blends seamlessly into the butter. Alternatively, you can use a garlic press to make the process quicker and ensure the garlic is evenly distributed.
3. Mix the Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Using a fork or spatula, mix everything together until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the butter is smooth.
4. Adjust Seasoning
   Taste the garlic butter spread and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it saltier, add a bit more salt. If you want more garlic flavor, you can mince an extra clove or add a pinch of garlic powder.
5. Store or Serve
   You can use the garlic butter spread immediately, or store it for later. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or roll it into a log shape using plastic wrap. The spread will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

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How to Make Garlic Butter Spread: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Soften the butter to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
2. Mince or press the garlic finely so it blends well with the butter.
3. Mix in fresh herbs, seasonings, and olive oil for a flavorful, spreadable consistency.
4. Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring you have the right balance of garlic, salt, and herbs.
5. Store in the fridge or freezer to have garlic butter ready whenever you need it.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold butter: If your butter isn’t softened, it won’t mix properly with the garlic and herbs, resulting in a lumpy, uneven spread. Make sure the butter is at room temperature before mixing.
• Over-mixing the butter: You want to combine the ingredients thoroughly, but be careful not to over-mix the butter, as it can become too soft and difficult to handle.
• Too much garlic: While garlic butter is all about that garlicky goodness, it’s easy to go overboard. Start with a moderate amount and adjust to taste, especially if you're serving it to a crowd.
• Skipping the salt: Butter is naturally creamy, but it needs salt to bring out the flavors of the garlic and herbs. Don’t forget to season your garlic butter spread with a little salt for balance.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This garlic butter spread is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some serving ideas:

1. Garlic Bread: Spread a generous amount on sliced baguettes or Italian bread, then bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden and crispy.
2. Steak Topping: Melt a dollop of garlic butter on top of grilled or pan-seared steak for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Seafood: Use the spread to baste shrimp, lobster, or grilled fish, giving the seafood a rich, garlicky finish.
4. Vegetables: Toss roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or potatoes in the garlic butter for added richness.
5. Pasta: Stir the garlic butter into cooked pasta along with a little pasta water to create an easy, flavorful garlic butter sauce.

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How to Serve Garlic Butter Spread

• As a dip: Serve it warm in a small dish alongside warm bread or rolls for dipping. It also pairs well with breadsticks, crackers, or crostini.
• With grilled meats or seafood: Melt the garlic butter over grilled steak, chicken, or seafood for a simple but elegant finish.
• In baked dishes: Incorporate the garlic butter into casseroles or pasta bakes to enhance their flavor. You can also brush it onto the tops of bread rolls before baking for a garlicky twist.

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Presentation Ideas for Garlic Butter Spread

• Shape into a log: If you want a restaurant-style presentation, roll the garlic butter spread into a log using plastic wrap. Chill it in the refrigerator until firm, then slice it into neat rounds to place on steaks or seafood.
• Serve in a ramekin: For a rustic and cozy feel, spoon the garlic butter into a small ramekin or butter dish, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest.
• Melt over hot bread: Let the butter melt slightly on top of fresh bread or rolls before serving to create a tempting, buttery shine.

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Garlic Butter Spread Recipe Tips

• Let it chill: After making the garlic butter spread, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow the flavors to meld together.
• Make extra: This spread stores well in the fridge or freezer, so make a double batch and keep some on hand for quick meals.
• Try different flavors: Add different herbs, spices, or even zest to customize the flavor for different dishes. Rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of paprika can completely transform the spread.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use salted butter for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to adjust or reduce the amount of added salt to avoid an overly salty spread.

Q: How long does garlic butter spread last in the fridge?
A: Garlic butter spread will keep for about one week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze garlic butter?
A: Yes, garlic butter freezes very well. You can store it in an airtight container or roll it into a log and wrap it in plastic wrap, then freeze for up to three months.

Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A: Yes, if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can substitute garlic powder. Start with about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and adjust to taste.

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Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Spread is a simple yet flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, perfect for adding a rich, garlicky touch to any meal. Whether you’re spreading it on bread, melting it over steak, or mixing it into pasta, this versatile spread is sure to elevate any dish. Try making it today and discover just how easy and delicious homemade garlic butter can be!

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