Ah, beurre blanc – the rich and creamy sauce that elevates any dish to new heights. This classic French condiment is a staple in many professional kitchens, but it’s also easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables, or using it as a dip for crusty bread, beurre blanc is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll explore 19 different beurre blanc recipes that you’ll love. From classic combinations like white wine and shallots to more adventurous pairings like chili and lime, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these silky sauces are sure to become a new favorite.
Classic French Beurre Blanc with White Wine and Shallots
This rich and creamy sauce is a staple of fine dining, elevating any dish to new heights. With its subtle balance of flavors, it’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
• 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook until they’re softened and caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the liquid has almost completely reduced, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the heavy cream.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Lemon-Dill Beurre Blanc for Seafood
This vibrant sauce is perfect for elevating your seafood dishes with a burst of citrusy freshness. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and adds an undeniable elegance to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the lemon juice, vinegar, and dill. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the salt and heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic-Herb Beurre Blanc with Grilled Vegetables
Elevate your grilled vegetables with a rich and flavorful Garlic-Herb Beurre Blanc sauce, perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight meals. This simple yet elegant recipe combines the brightness of herbs with the pungency of garlic in a creamy beurre blanc that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant) until tender.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in parsley, chives, vinegar, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve beurre blanc sauce over grilled vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tarragon-Infused Beurre Blanc for Chicken
Elevate your chicken dishes with this classic French sauce infused with the subtle anise flavor of tarragon. This rich and creamy beurre blanc is perfect for sautéed or roasted chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons tarragon leaves
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the softened butter, white wine vinegar, and dry white wine.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the tarragon leaves and lemon juice; stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Beurre Blanc with Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy sauce featuring sautéed mushrooms and a hint of buttery goodness. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning (about 5 minutes).
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
5. Stir in heavy cream; bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss to coat.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Beurre Blanc with Chili and Lime
Elevate your culinary game with this bold and zesty sauce, perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, seafood, or as a dip. The combination of chili peppers, lime juice, and rich butter creates a flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add chili flakes and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in lime juice, white wine, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Balsamic Beurre Blanc for Asparagus
This rich and creamy sauce adds a tangy twist to the classic springtime vegetable, asparagus. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a show-stopping dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon shallot, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the white balsamic vinegar and reduce by half, stirring occasionally (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped shallot; cook for an additional minute.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked asparagus spears with the White Balsamic Beurre Blanc sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on asparagus cooking time)
Beurre Blanc with Capers and Parsley for Fish
Elevate your fish dish with this rich and flavorful beurre blanc sauce, infused with the brightness of capers and parsley. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 fish fillets (6 oz each)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add vinegar, white wine, lemon juice, flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in garlic, capers, and parsley. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Pan-sear fish fillets with oil and seasonings as desired.
6. Serve fish with beurre blanc sauce spooned over.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange-Zested Beurre Blanc for Duck
This luxurious sauce elevates roasted duck breast or confit to new heights, with the brightness of orange zest and the richness of butter. Perfect as a glaze or served alongside your favorite duck dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the white wine, whisking until smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until reduced by half.
3. Whisk in heavy cream and orange juice. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and whisk in grated orange zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
6. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Truffle Beurre Blanc with Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this decadent white truffle beurre blanc recipe, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup white truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions using vegetable broth.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warmed broth to the saucepan, whisking constantly. Repeat until all broth is used.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Remove from heat and whisk in white truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked risotto and beurre blanc sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Beurre Blanc with Thai Flavors
This creamy and aromatic sauce combines the richness of coconut milk with the bright flavors of Thailand, perfect for serving with grilled meats or vegetables. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this exotic condiment in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (Thai-style)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and salt.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Saffron Beurre Blanc for Scallops
Elevate your scallop dish with a rich and creamy Saffron Beurre Blanc sauce. This recipe combines the subtle flavor of saffron with buttery goodness, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the white wine and bring to a simmer. Cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the heavy cream and saffron mixture. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve immediately over cooked scallops.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Beurre Blanc with Grilled Steak
Elevate your grilled steak game with this rich and smoky beurre blanc sauce, infused with the deep flavors of paprika. This indulgent accompaniment is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, vinegar, and heavy cream.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and whisk in smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Grill steak to desired doneness (about 4-6 minutes per side).
6. Serve grilled steak with warm smoky paprika beurre blanc spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary-Thyme Beurre Blanc for Lamb
This rich and flavorful sauce combines the savory notes of rosemary and thyme with the creaminess of butter, perfect for serving with grilled or roasted lamb. The result is a sophisticated and aromatic accompaniment to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the rosemary and thyme; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Gradually whisk in the white wine vinegar and chicken broth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Beurre Blanc for Holiday Meals
This elegant sauce is the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, vegetables, or as a topping for your favorite holiday dishes. The combination of sweet cranberries, tangy buttermilk, and rich butter creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries have popped and the mixture is syrupy, about 10 minutes.
2. Stir in buttermilk and butter until smooth.
3. If using white wine, add it to the saucepan and cook for an additional minute.
4. Season with pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Miso Beurre Blanc with Asian-Inspired Dishes
This rich and savory Miso Beurre Blanc sauce is a perfect accompaniment to various Asian-inspired dishes, such as grilled meats, stir-fries, or noodles. Its umami flavor profile will add depth and complexity to your culinary creations.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon miso paste
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the vinegar and whisk until smooth.
3. Whisk in the miso paste until well combined.
4. Gradually add the fish stock, whisking continuously.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
7. Remove from heat and let cool.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Red Pepper Beurre Blanc for Colorful Plating
This recipe adds a pop of color and flavor to any dish with its rich red pepper sauce, perfect for colorful plating. Pair it with your favorite protein or vegetables for a visually appealing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Roast the red bell peppers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes, or until charred.
2. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and chop into small pieces.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the white wine, heavy cream, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the roasted red peppers to the saucepan and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Pistachio Beurre Blanc with Roasted Salmon
Elevate your salmon dish with the rich flavors of pistachio beurre blanc, a creamy and nutty sauce that complements the fish’s delicate taste.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pistachio oil or extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly shelled and chopped pistachios
– Salt, to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt; place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat; stir in pistachio oil and chopped pistachios. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve roasted salmon with warm pistachio beurre blanc sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Vanilla Bean Beurre Blanc for Dessert Pairings
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and velvety Vanilla Bean Beurre Blanc, perfect for pairing with a variety of sweet treats. This classic French sauce is infused with the warmth of vanilla beans and the richness of butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, sugar, and salt.
2. Split the vanilla bean and add it to the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, discarding the vanilla bean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra rich flavor, add 2 tablespoons of white wine during step 3.
– Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before serving.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 19 silky beurre blanc recipes! From classic French variations to bold and innovative twists, this collection has something for every palate. Try the Lemon-Dill Beurre Blanc with Seafood, Garlic-Herb Beurre Blanc with Grilled Vegetables, or Spicy Beurre Blanc with Chili and Lime. Alternatively, indulge in more unique flavor combinations like Coconut Milk Beurre Blanc with Thai Flavors or Rosemary-Thyme Beurre Blanc for Lamb. Whether you’re looking to impress at a holiday meal or simply want to add some excitement to your weeknight dinner routine, these beurre blanc recipes are sure to delight.
