Easy Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe

This easy homemade garlic butter is rich, creamy, and packed with savory garlic and herbs. Perfect for spreading on warm bread, melting over steak or vegetables, tossing with pasta, or adding extra flavor to your favorite dishes.

Cook Time

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Prep Time

10 Minutes

Ingredients

Soften the Butter
Place the softened butter in a medium mixing bowl. The butter should be soft enough to mix easily but not melted.

Add the Garlic & Herbs
Add the minced garlic and fresh parsley to the softened butter.

Add the Seasonings
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Mix the Garlic Butter
Use a fork or rubber spatula to mix everything together until the garlic, herbs, and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the butter.

Taste & Adjust
Taste the garlic butter and adjust the salt, pepper, or garlic seasoning if needed.

Chill or Serve
Use the garlic butter immediately while soft, or cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes for a firmer consistency.

Store
Transfer leftover garlic butter to an airtight container and keep refrigerated until ready to use.

For the best flavor, let the finished garlic butter rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the garlic, herbs, and seasonings time to blend into the butter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes. If you use salted butter, leave out the added salt at first. Taste the finished garlic butter and add more salt only if needed.
Can I use jarred minced garlic instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic will give the butter the best flavor. If using jarred minced garlic, drain off any excess liquid before adding it.
How long does homemade garlic butter last in the refrigerator?

Store the garlic butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use it within about 4–5 days.
Can I freeze homemade garlic butter?

Yes. Wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. You can also freeze small portions so you can grab just what you need.
What can I use garlic butter for?

Use it on garlic bread, steak, chicken, seafood, baked potatoes, pasta, rice, or vegetables. You can also melt it and use it as a dipping butter.