20 Creamy Recipes with Butter and Herbs

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Butter and herbs – a match made in culinary heaven! When combined, these two ingredients create a flavor profile that is nothing short of divine. In this article, we’ll explore 20 creamy recipes that showcase the perfect union of butter and herbs. From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi to sweet treats like Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, we’ve got you covered.

In the following pages, you’ll discover a variety of mouthwatering recipes that incorporate these two essential ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dessert, we’ve curated a collection of dishes that are sure to impress. So go ahead, get cozy in the kitchen, and let the rich flavors of butter and herbs guide your culinary journey.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: A Quick and Delicious Seafood Delight

Get ready to satisfy your seafood cravings with this easy-to-make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe! This classic Italian-inspired dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, garlic, white wine (if using), and lemon juice.
5. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley (optional).
9. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Butter Roasted Chicken with Thyme

A classic comfort dish, this recipe combines the richness of butter and thyme to create a mouthwatering roasted chicken that’s sure to please. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and chopped thyme leaves.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and spread the butter mixture evenly over the breast and thighs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Herb Butter Roasted Potatoes

Elevate your roasted potatoes with the bright flavors of fresh herbs and rich butter. This simple recipe yields a delicious side dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or grated Parmesan cheese for added depth

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with butter, parsley, and chives until well coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with garlic powder or Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Creamy Butter Mashed Potatoes

A comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the potato cubes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, and pepper, and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half until the potatoes are creamy and well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill

Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful salmon dish, infused with the freshness of lemon and dill.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, lemon juice, and chopped dill until well combined.
5. Spread the lemon-butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
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 Steak Bites

Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines tender steak bites with the rich flavors of garlic and butter.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef top sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Place the steak bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak bites.
5. Sprinkle Worcestershire sauce over the top of each bite.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Butter Pecan Cookies

Rich and buttery cookies packed with the nutty flavor of pecans, perfect for snacking or sharing.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in pecans and chocolate chips (if using).
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a plate.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Get ready to sink your teeth into a rich and indulgent cookie experience with these Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Ingredients:
• 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Honey Butter Cornbread

Sweet and savory, this Honey Butter Cornbread recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Southern staple.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients; stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Butter Garlic Noodles

A classic comfort food, these butter garlic noodles are a simple yet satisfying dish that can be ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. noodles (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the saucepan and stir until melted.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the saucepan, tossing to combine with the butter-garlic mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Brown Butter Sage Pasta

Transform your pasta game with this rich and earthy recipe that combines the nutty flavors of brown butter, the savory essence of sage, and the comfort of perfectly cooked noodles.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or pappardelle)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add olive oil and cook for 2-3 minutes or until butter turns golden brown.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in chopped sage leaves and cook for 1 minute.
5. Drain cooked pasta and combine with the brown butter-sage sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time:

– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Brown butter-sage sauce preparation: 5-7 minutes

Cinnamon Butter Pancakes

Start your day with a warm and comforting breakfast treat – Cinnamon Butter Pancakes! These fluffy pancakes are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and topped with a pat of creamy butter, making them a delightful morning indulgence.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Butter, softened (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Stir in cinnamon.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with a pat of softened butter.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Elevate your meal 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. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mushroom mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Butter Pecan Ice Cream

Savor the rich flavors of butter, pecans, and creamy ice cream with this easy-to-make recipe.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until the sugars dissolve.
2. Stir in the softened butter until fully incorporated.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Add the chilled mixture to the ice cream maker and churn until it reaches the desired consistency, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract during the last 2 minutes of churning.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (churning time)

Brown Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Elevate your classic rice krispie treats with the rich flavor of brown butter and a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup unsalted butter, browned (see instructions)
– 2 cups marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the browned butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and stir until well coated.
5. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Tips:

– To brown butter, melt it in a saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
– If using a microwave to melt the marshmallows, be careful not to overheat as this can cause the mixture to become too sticky.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

Brighten up your meal with a burst of citrus flavor in this easy and delicious recipe for Lemon Butter Green Beans.

Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)

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, garlic, and lemon juice.
5. Pour the lemon butter mixture over the green beans, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Herbed Butter Dinner Rolls

Elevate your dinner game with these soft, fluffy rolls infused with the warmth of herbs and the richness of butter.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Add warm water and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface 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 about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
7. Brush tops with melted butter mixed with chopped parsley and chives.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Brown Butter Frosting

Rich and decadent, this brown butter frosting is the perfect topping for cakes, cookies, or even fruit parfaits.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
6. Let the mixture cool slightly before using as frosting.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

Get ready to elevate your roasted carrot game with this easy and flavorful recipe! With a hint of garlic and butter, these tender and caramelized carrots are sure to become a new favorite side dish.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the carrot pieces with the minced garlic until they’re evenly coated.
3. Add the softened butter to the carrots and toss until the carrots are well-coated.
4. Season the carrots with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Rich and decadent, this butter pecan pound cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy goodness! This collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes combines the richness of butter with the freshness of herbs to create dishes that are sure to please. From savory options like Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Herb Butter Roasted Potatoes, to sweet treats like Cinnamon Butter Pancakes and Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of Creamy Butter Mashed Potatoes or a decadent slice of Butter Pecan Pound Cake, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

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