Fresh Parsley Garlic Butter You’ll Want on Everything

Homemade parsley garlic butter is a rich, flavorful compound butter that combines creamy butter with fresh parsley and garlic.

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It’s perfect for spreading on warm bread, melting over grilled steak, tossing with vegetables, or adding to seafood for an easy restaurant-quality finish.

This simple recipe comes together in just a few minutes and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer whenever you need a burst of fresh herb flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 5 minutes
Made with fresh parsley and garlic
Perfect for steak, seafood, vegetables, and bread
Freezer-friendly
A delicious homemade pantry staple

What Is Compound Butter?

Compound butter is softened butter mixed with herbs, spices, garlic, or other flavorful ingredients. Once chilled, it can be sliced and placed on hot foods where it melts into a rich, flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)

How to Make Parsley Garlic Butter

Step 1: Soften the Butter

Allow the butter to sit at room temperature until soft enough to mix easily.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped parsley, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper.

Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

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Step 3: Shape the Butter

Transfer the butter to a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.

Roll it into a log and twist the ends tightly.

You can also spoon the butter into a small airtight container if you prefer.

Step 4: Chill

Refrigerate for at least one hour until firm before slicing or serving.

Tips for the Best Parsley Garlic Butter

Use fresh parsley for the brightest flavor.
Finely mince the garlic so it blends evenly.
Start with softened butter for easy mixing.
Taste and adjust the seasoning before chilling.
For a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic before mixing it into the butter.

Ways to Use Parsley Garlic Butter

This flavorful butter is delicious on:

Grilled steak
Salmon
Shrimp
Lobster
Chicken
Corn on the cob
Roasted potatoes
Steamed vegetables
Garlic bread
Dinner rolls
Pasta
Rice
Baked potatoes
Mushrooms

Variations

Lemon Parsley Garlic Butter

Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice for a bright citrus flavor.

Parmesan Garlic Butter

Mix in 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory twist.

Spicy Garlic Butter

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for gentle heat.

Herb Garden Butter

Mix in fresh chives, thyme, or basil along with the parsley for an extra-herby compound butter.

How to Store

Store parsley garlic butter in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in parchment paper in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freeze for up to 3 months. Slice off portions as needed and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze parsley garlic butter?

Yes! Compound butter freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly or store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Can I use dried parsley?

Fresh parsley provides the best flavor and texture, but you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried parsley if necessary.

Should I use salted or unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the amount of salt, but salted butter works well too. Simply reduce or omit the additional salt.

What does parsley garlic butter go well with?

It’s excellent on grilled meats, seafood, vegetables, potatoes, pasta, rice, and fresh bread.

More Herb Butter Recipes You’ll Love

Dill Butter
Garlic Herb Butter
Chive Butter
Rosemary Butter
Basil Butter
Thyme Butter
Lemon Herb Butter

More Homemade Pantry Recipes

Homemade parsley garlic butter is an easy way to elevate everyday meals with fresh herbs and rich garlic flavor.

Whether you’re melting it over a grilled steak, spreading it on warm bread, or tossing it with vegetables, this versatile compound butter is a simple recipe you’ll want to keep on hand all year long.

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