When it comes to elevating the flavor of a dish, few ingredients can match the power of garlic and butter. This classic combination is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. Garlic adds a pungent, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy richness of butter. Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to a weeknight dinner or impress your guests at a special occasion, garlic butter is the perfect ingredient to have up your sleeve.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 irresistible garlic butter recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. From seafood and steak to vegetables and breads, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get ready to unleash your inner chef and indulge in the bold flavors of garlic and butter!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine and chicken broth, add to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter sauce, then top with cooked shrimp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Elevate your gatherings with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender steak bites with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the steak bites and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon butter with minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
6. Remove the steak bites from the oven and brush with the garlic butter mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes
Bring out the flavors of this classic comfort food with a simple yet delicious twist! Garlic butter roasted potatoes are the perfect side dish for any occasion, and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (chives, parsley, thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Elevate your grilling game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory richness of garlic and butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Brush the corn ears with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until lightly charred and tender.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
Elevate your seafood game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweetness of lobster with the savory flavors of garlic and butter. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lobster tails (1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Season lobster tails with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto both sides of the lobster tails.
5. Place lobster tails on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-12 minutes total
Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Elevate your meals with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and well combined with the mushroom mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with tender and juicy chicken thighs. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the butter is melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Rolls
These soft and fluffy garlic butter rolls are perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, stews, or main courses. With the pungency of garlic and richness of butter, these rolls will elevate any meal to a new level.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (105°F – 115°F)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and roll out to desired thickness.
6. Spread melted butter mixed with minced garlic evenly over the dough.
7. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
8. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each roll.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Scallops
Add a touch of elegance to your dinner table with these succulent garlic butter scallops, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal. With only a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and impressive dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Place the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dot the top of each scallop with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Breadsticks
Elevate your snacking game with these soft, buttery, and aromatic garlic breadsticks that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and stir until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into strips (about 6-8 inches long).
5. In a small bowl, mix softened butter and minced garlic. Brush the mixture evenly onto each breadstick.
6. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each stick. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Elevate your green beans game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and richness of butter. Perfect as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the green beans.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Crab Legs
Add a rich and indulgent twist to your seafood with this simple garlic butter crab legs recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, these succulent crustaceans will surely impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab legs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse crab legs under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Place the crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the crab legs.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crab is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Garlic Butter Salmon
This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the pungency of garlic butter, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, and lemon juice until well combined.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure to cover all surfaces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter and garlic with the natural sweetness of fresh asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the asparagus.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and melted mozzarella cheese on a crispy crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Mix garlic and butter in a small bowl until well combined.
4. Spread garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter layer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Cajun Shrimp
Add a touch of Louisiana spice to your dinner with this flavorful Garlic Butter Cajun Shrimp dish. Succulent shrimp smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with the bold flavors of cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in any remaining garlic butter sauce.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Ribeye Steak
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and butter to create a tender and juicy ribeye steak.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs ribeye steak
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the ribeye steak with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Place the ribeye steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Brussels Sprouts
Transform humble Brussels sprouts into a decadent side dish with this simple recipe that combines the pungency of garlic with the richness of butter. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, these flavorful greens will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and cook until slightly golden.
4. Add garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Pour the garlicky butter mixture over the Brussels sprouts and toss to coat.
6. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Herb Rice
This recipe combines the richness of butter, the pungency of garlic, and the brightness of fresh herbs to create a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in melted butter mixture, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer rice to a serving dish and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Baked Clams
Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the brininess of clams with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherrystone or littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
3. Place clams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each clam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until clams are cooked through and shells open.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 irresistible garlic butter recipes, perfect for any occasion! From seafood like shrimp and lobster tails, to savory meats like steak and chicken, and even delicious vegetable options, there’s something for everyone. Elevate your pasta dishes with Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta or try Garlic Butter Steak Bites as an impressive main course. Even side dishes get a flavorful boost with recipes like Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes and Garlic Butter Green Beans. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to add some zest to your weeknight meals, these garlic butter recipes are sure to please!