Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or eliminate the added salt in the recipe. Taste as you go to ensure the butter doesn't become too salty, as Cajun seasoning already contains salt.

How spicy is this butter, and can I reduce the heat?

This recipe has a moderate kick. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. You can also use a milder hot sauce or reduce the quantity.

Can I make this with dairy-free butter alternatives?

Absolutely! Plant-based butter alternatives work well in this recipe. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will still blend beautifully. Just ensure your alternative is unsalted.

What's the best way to serve this with steak?

For the ultimate steak experience, let your cooked steak rest for 5 minutes, then place a 1/2-inch thick slice of chilled Cajun Cowboy Butter on top just before serving. The heat from the steak will melt the butter, creating a magnificent sauce that coats every bite.

Cajun Cowboy Butter Recipe

Name: Cajun Cowboy Butter Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon coarse Dijon Mustard; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons hot sauce; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ⅛ teaspoon pepper; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Description

This Cajun Cowboy Butter is a versatile and flavorful condiment packed with bold Cajun seasoning, fresh herbs, and a hint of heat. Perfect as a compound butter for steaks, seafood, or bread, or melt it into a butter dip for vegetables or grilled meats. It’s a quick and satisfying addition to elevate any dish!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Butter Mix

1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon coarse Dijon Mustard
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
2 teaspoons fresh thyme
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
2 teaspoons hot sauce
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Prepare the Cajun Butter Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, Dijon mustard, Cajun seasoning, chives, parsley, thyme, garlic, hot sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. This will yield about ⅔ cup of the flavorful Cajun butter mixture. Alternatively, you can use a food processor for easier mixing.
Make Compound Butter
Place the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Roll it into a log shape, pressing and shaping until the butter is completely wrapped. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap to secure, and refrigerate until firm (at least 2 hours or overnight).
Make Butter Dip
To make a butter dip, transfer the butter mixture to a microwave-safe bowl. Melt it in 20-second increments in the microwave, stirring in between, until fully liquefied. Use immediately as a warm dipping sauce.
Storage
Store the Cajun Cowboy Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

For an extra kick, increase the amount of cayenne or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
This butter pairs excellently with grilled steaks, seafood, roasted vegetables, or even toasted bread.
If you want to prep ahead, the compound butter can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just slice off pieces as needed.
Use high-quality butter for a richer flavor.
Adjust the heat to your liking by reducing or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 100
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg