Description
Herb Brown Butter Sauce is a quick and flavorful butter-based sauce that enhances the taste of pasta, vegetables, seafood, chicken, and steak. The nutty richness of browned butter combined with fresh herbs and optional garlic and lemon juice creates a versatile drizzle that adds depth and aroma to a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Butter Base
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
Flavorings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage, chopped (or a combination)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Swirl the pan occasionally and cook until the butter foams and the milk solids turn a golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic if using, and the chopped fresh herbs. Cook while stirring frequently for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice if desired to add brightness and balance to the rich butter.
- Season: Remove the pan from heat and season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm herb brown butter sauce over your choice of pasta, steamed vegetables, fish, chicken, or steak. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra savory depth.
Notes
- Watch the butter carefully as it browns to prevent burning, which can make the sauce bitter.
- The sauce is best used immediately but can be kept warm for a short time without solidifying.
- Feel free to use any fresh herbs you prefer or have on hand to customize flavor.
- If omitting garlic, the sauce will be milder and more herb-forward.
- Adding lemon juice is optional but recommended to brighten the flavors.
- This sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it very versatile.
