Creole Butter (Spicy, Zesty & Rich with Southern Flavor)
If you’re looking to add a flavorful finishing touch to your grilled steaks, seafood boils, roasted veggies, or even toasted bread, look no further than Creole Butter. This spicy, herby compound butter is packed with the bold flavors of the South—garlic, paprika, lemon, and cayenne—blended into rich, creamy butter that melts beautifully into anything it touches.
Inspired by the bold profiles in dishes like Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo and Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage, this compound butter is a kitchen essential if you’re all about flavor-forward cooking.
Why I Love This Recipe
This is the kind of recipe that makes people ask, “What’s your secret?” It’s:
🔥 Packed with spices and herbs
🧄 Bursting with garlic and citrus
🧈 Rich and creamy, perfect for melting
🌶️ Customizable for heat level
🕒 Done in 10 minutes—then chill and slice!
It’s my favorite flavor hack to upgrade Easy Turkey Wings or bring a buttery, smoky twist to Sheet Pan Quesadillas.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (reduce for milder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
🥄 Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Butter: Unsalted is best—you control the seasoning.
- Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor if you prefer it.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds that perfect umami depth.
- Herbs: Feel free to use fresh herbs if available, just triple the amount.
👨🍳 How to Make Creole Butter
1. Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients: softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, spices, herbs, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend until fully incorporated.
2. Shape the Butter
Scoop the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Roll into a log shape, wrapping it tightly and twisting the ends like candy.
3. Chill Until Firm
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until the butter is firm enough to slice. For quicker results, pop it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
4. Slice & Serve
Unwrap and slice into rounds as needed. Serve over hot grilled meats, seafood, veggies, or even spread on bread.
🔥 Pro Tips for Success
- Let the butter soften fully before mixing—this ensures a smooth blend.
- Use parchment paper if you want a more structured log (easier to slice).
- Make it ahead – the flavor intensifies after a day in the fridge.
- Double it – freeze half for later and always have flavor on hand!
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Creole Butter is incredibly versatile. Try it with:
- Grilled steak, shrimp, or chicken
- Melted over roasted potatoes or corn on the cob
- Tossed with pasta or rice
- Brushed on warm biscuits or cornbread
- Swirled into Beer Cheese Dip for a spicy twist
🧊 Storage & Freezing Tips
Refrigerator:
Store wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice off portions as needed and thaw in the fridge or at room temp.
Pro Tip:
Cut the log into discs and store in a resealable freezer bag for easy, portioned use.
🥄 More Recipes to Add Southern Flavor
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
- Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage
- Easy Turkey Wings
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Beer Cheese Dip
📝 Final Thoughts
This Creole Butter is a simple upgrade that adds bold flavor to everyday meals. Make it once and you’ll be reaching for it again and again—whether you’re grilling, roasting, or just spreading it on a hot roll straight from the oven.
Tried it? Tag @Chefmaniac with your Creole Butter creations—we’d love to see how you’re using it to spice up your meals!
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