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Cowboy Butter Dipping Sauce

A quick, creamy dipping sauce that's rich, buttery, and packs a spicy kick, perfect for steaks, vegetables, and more.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
Flavor Enhancers
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Spices
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for a touch of balance)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soften the butter: Leave butter on the counter for about 30 minutes or microwave in 5-second bursts until slightly softened—don’t melt it.
  2. Mix base: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter and mayonnaise. Use a fork or whisk to beat until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add flavor boosters: Stir in lemon juice, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
  4. Spice it up: Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Fresh herbs finish: Fold in parsley and chives.
  6. Sweet balance (optional): Stir in honey or maple syrup if too sharp.
  7. Chill slightly (recommended): Refrigerate the sauce for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld or serve warm immediately.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Transfer to a ramekin or slather on hot steaks, shrimp, vegetables, or crusty bread.

Notes

Storage: Keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Can be frozen in ice cube trays for up to 3 months.