Homemade Thyme Herb Butter You’ll Want on Everything

Fresh thyme herb butter is an easy way to bring rich, savory flavor to everything from roasted vegetables to grilled meats and warm homemade bread.

Made with fresh thyme, garlic, and creamy butter, this simple compound butter comes together in just a few minutes and stores beautifully in the refrigerator or freezer.

Whether you’re harvesting thyme from your herb garden or picking up a bundle at the grocery store, this homemade herb butter is a delicious staple for from-scratch cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 10 minutes
• Uses simple, fresh ingredients
• Freezer-friendly
• Perfect for vegetables, meats, potatoes, and bread
• Great way to use fresh garden herbs

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

1. Remove the thyme leaves from the stems and finely chop them.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, thyme, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
3. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Spoon the butter onto parchment paper or plastic wrap and roll into a log.
5. Twist the ends tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour before slicing.

Ways to Use Thyme Herb Butter

This flavorful butter pairs well with countless meals.

• Spread on warm dinner rolls or crusty bread
• Melt over grilled steak
• Top roasted chicken or turkey
• Stir into mashed potatoes
• Toss with roasted carrots or green beans
• Melt over baked potatoes
• Finish sautéed mushrooms
• Add to steamed vegetables
• Toss with pasta
• Brush over grilled corn

Storage

Store thyme herb butter in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freeze for up to three months. Slice off individual rounds whenever you need a quick burst of fresh herb flavor.

Variations

Customize this butter with additional herbs and flavors.

• Add fresh rosemary for a woodsy flavor.
• Mix in chopped sage for holiday meals.
• Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
• Add roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic.
• Blend in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
• Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh thyme for the brightest flavor.
• Finely chop the herbs so they blend evenly into the butter.
• Start with softened—not melted—butter.
• Unsalted butter gives you better control over the seasoning.
• Chill before slicing for clean, even rounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried thyme?

Fresh thyme is recommended for the best flavor and texture. If using dried thyme, reduce the amount to about 2 teaspoons.

Can I freeze herb butter?

Yes! Herb butter freezes exceptionally well and is perfect for meal prep.

What foods pair best with thyme butter?

Thyme butter is delicious on roasted potatoes, chicken, turkey, steak, pork chops, vegetables, fresh bread, pasta, and seafood.

More Homemade Herb Butter Recipes

If you enjoy making homemade compound butters, be sure to try these delicious recipes:

• Rosemary Garlic Butter
• Lavender Honey Butter
• Homemade Chive Butter
• Garlic Parsley Butter
• Fresh Dill Butter
• Basil Herb Butter

Each one adds its own unique flavor to breads, vegetables, grilled meats, seafood, and pasta, making it easy to keep a variety of homemade herb butters on hand for everyday cooking.

Follow my homemade pantry board on Pinterest.