This Cowboy Butter Seasoning is a bold, savory, and slightly spicy blend of herbs and spices that transforms butter, mayonnaise, or cream cheese into flavorful spreads. Besides being the base for cowboy butter, cowboy mayo, and cowboy cream cheese, it also adds a punch of flavor on its own to steak, vegetables, sandwiches, and more!
What is Cowboy Butter Seasoning?
Cowboy Butter Seasoning is a bold, savory blend of herbs and spices that can transform ordinary butter, mayonnaise, or cream cheese into flavorful spreads. But, it doesn’t stop there! Beyond spreads, it works as a versatile seasoning on vegetables, meats, eggs, popcorn, and more. This easy-to-make blend keeps well in a cool, dry place and is perfect for adding quick, delicious flavor to everyday dishes.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Dried Herbs: Parsley, chives, and thyme create the herbaceous base. You can use fresh herbs if needed; just reduce the amounts slightly as fresh herbs are more potent.
- Garlic & Onion: Dried minced garlic and onion give concentrated flavor. Garlic or onion powder can work if needed, though the texture will be slightly different.
- Spices & Heat: Crushed red pepper flakes add mild heat, paprika gives smoky sweetness, and black pepper enhances depth. Mustard powder adds subtle complexity. Adjust pepper flakes to taste.
- Citric Acid: Citric acid adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of butter, mayo, or cream cheese. It’s commonly found in the spice aisle or online. If unavailable, a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice works as a substitute, though it may slightly change the texture of the seasoning.
- Salt & Sugar: Kosher salt balances flavors, while a pinch of sugar rounds out the seasoning. Adjust salt if using salted butter, mayonnaise, or cream cheese.
FAQs
Can I make this seasoning ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the Cowboy Butter Seasoning in advance and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Reduce or increase crushed red pepper flakes to make it milder or spicier.
Can I use this seasoning in recipes other than butter, mayonnaise, or cream cheese?
Yes! Sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, mix it into mashed potatoes, or season grilled meats for extra flavor.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! Fresh parsley, chives, and thyme can be used, but reduce the amounts slightly since fresh herbs are more potent than dried.
What is citric acid, and can I substitute it?
Citric acid adds a bright, tangy note. A small squeeze of fresh lemon juice works as a substitute, though it may slightly change the texture of the seasoning.
Ways to Use Cowboy Butter Seasoning
This bold, savory blend adds flavor wherever you want a punch of herbs and spice:
- Roasted Vegetables: Sprinkle directly on vegetables before roasting for extra depth.
- Grilled Meats: Use as a dry rub or finishing seasoning on steak (like steak bites), chicken, or pork.
- Mashed Potatoes or Rice: Stir a teaspoon or two into mashed potatoes (have you tried my Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes, yet?), rice, or quinoa for a flavorful boost.
- Popcorn or Snack Mix: Toss a little seasoning on popcorn, roasted nuts, or snack mixes for a savory twist.
- Eggs or Breakfast Dishes: Sprinkle on scrambled eggs, omelets, or a roasted potato breakfast casserole.
- Soups and Stews: Add a pinch to soup recipes, chili, or stews to layer in savory, herbal flavor.
How to Store Cowboy Butter Seasoning
Store your Cowboy Butter Seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from heat or direct sunlight. Properly stored, it will keep its flavor and potency for up to 6 months.
For best results:
- Use a dry spoon when scooping to avoid introducing moisture.
- Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use to preserve the herbs and spices.
- Label with the date made so you know when it’s time to refresh your batch.
Cowboy Butter Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried minced chives
- 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon citric acid
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
To Make Cowboy Butter
- 2 tablespoons Cowboy Butter Seasoning
- 1 stick (½ cup / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened
To Make Cowboy Mayo
- 2 tablespoons Cowboy Butter Seasoning
- 1 cup mayonnaise
To Make Cowboy Cream Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Cowboy Butter Seasoning
- 1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine dried parsley, chives, garlic, onion, red pepper flakes, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, citric acid, thyme, mustard powder, and granulated sugar. Whisk or stir until evenly mixed.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
To Make Cowboy Butter
- In a medium bowl, add softened butter and Cowboy Butter Seasoning. Use a silicone spatula or spoon to mix until fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape into a log, roll tightly, and twist the ends to seal.
- Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.
- Slice and use as needed on steak, corn, veggies, or bread. Or melt for an easy dipping sauce.
To Make Cowboy Mayo
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise and Cowboy Butter Seasoning. Stir until fully mixed and smooth. Transfer to a jar or an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow flavors to develop.
- Great on sandwiches, burgers, or as a dip.
To Make Cowboy Cream Cheese
- To a medium bowl, add softened cream cheese and Cowboy Butter Seasoning. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spatula to blend until smooth and fully combined.
- Transfer to a small bowl or ramekin. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors develop.
- Serve with crackers, bagels, or as a savory spread.
Did you make this recipe?
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