This supremely flavorful compound butter can be a dip, spread, or steak topper.

Here, learn how to make cowboy butter and how to use it for unforgettable meals.

What Is Cowboy Butter?

Southern Living Cowboy Butter finished on a small board to serve with slices of bread

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Cowboy butter can also be melted and mixed with all these ingredients for a dip.

It’s the perfect pairing for a grilled ribeye steak, roasted potatoes, or roast beef sliders.

But we wouldn’t be opposed to eating a smear on baguette or fresh radishes.

Southern Living Cowboy Butter ingredients

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

If you want a little more heat, use cayenne in place of the crushed red pepper.

Coarse mustard provides a stronger flavor and texture in place of Dijon.

Compound butters are very forgiving and great for creativity.

Southern Living Cowboy Butter ingredients in a bowl

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

They’re also a fun way to use up surplus herbs and spices in a unique way.

Cowboy Butter also makes a fantasticgarlic breadspread, or melt it for a dip.

Consider using it in sliders like theseFrench Dip Slidersfor a certain special something on a classic appetizer.

Southern Living Cowboy Butter stirring together the butter ingredients

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

It would be fantastic spread on ahamburger, too.

Can I Make Cowboy Butter Ahead of Time?

you might keep it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for 6 months.

Southern Living Cowboy Butter softened butter mixture on a piece of plastic wrap

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Ingredients

1/2cup(4 oz.

Mix together with a spatula or wooden spoon until well combined.

you might also prepare this in a stand mixer or food processor.

Southern Living Cowboy Butter log rolled up and ready to chill

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Roll the butter into a log shape, pressing and shaping as you go.

Refrigerate the butter for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the shape to hold.

Top grilled meats and seafood, steamed vegetables or grains, or spread onto bread and broil.