Cowboy butter has become a popular flavor enhancer for various dishes, including corn on the cob. This savory compound butter combines melted butter with herbs, spices, and aromatics to create a rich and flavorful coating for grilled or roasted corn. To make cowboy butter for corn, mix melted butter with lemon juice, garlic, mustard, paprika, cayenne, parsley, chives, thyme, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.

The butter can be brushed onto corn before wrapping it in foil for baking or applied after grilling for a golden, caramelized finish. For a Mexican street corn-inspired twist, the cowboy butter can be customized with additional ingredients like cotija cheese or cilantro.

Preparing cowboy butter ahead of time allows the flavors to meld. After mixing the ingredients, the butter can be rolled into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerated until firm. This makes it easy to slice and use as needed, enhancing not just corn but other dishes as well.

Understanding Cowboy Butter

Cowboy butter is a flavorful compound butter that elevates corn and other dishes. It combines softened butter with a variety of herbs, spices, and aromatics.

Key ingredients typically include:

• Fresh herbs: Parsley, chives, thyme
• Aromatics: Garlic, lemon zest
• Spices: Paprika, chili flakes, black pepper

The mixture creates a zesty, herbaceous spread with a subtle spicy kick. Cowboy butter enhances the natural sweetness of corn while adding depth and complexity.

To prepare cowboy butter, soften unsalted butter at room temperature. Mix in minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, lemon juice, and spices. Blend thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

This versatile condiment pairs well with grilled or roasted corn. It can also be used to top steaks, fish, or vegetables. The butter melts beautifully over hot dishes, infusing them with rich flavor.

Cowboy butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using for easy spreading. Its bold taste profile makes it a popular choice for outdoor cookouts and barbecues.

Ingredients Breakdown

Cowboy butter combines rich fats with flavorful herbs and zesty spices. This versatile compound butter enhances corn and other dishes with its bold taste profile.

Butters and Fats

Unsalted butter forms the base of cowboy butter. Its neutral flavor allows other ingredients to shine. For a softer spread, use room temperature butter. Melted butter works well for brushing onto corn.

Some recipes incorporate olive oil for added richness and a smoother consistency. This also makes the butter more spreadable when chilled.

Herbs and Aromatics

Fresh herbs give cowboy butter its vibrant flavor and aroma. Parsley adds a fresh, slightly peppery taste. Thyme contributes an earthy, minty note.

Garlic is a key aromatic. Use fresh minced garlic for the strongest flavor, or garlic powder for convenience.

Shallots offer a milder onion flavor. Finely chop them for even distribution.

Oregano brings a hint of bitterness that balances the rich butter.

Spices and Seasonings

Spices give cowboy butter its signature kick. Salt and black pepper are essential for basic seasoning.

Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes add heat. Adjust the amount to control spiciness.

Paprika provides a sweet, peppery flavor. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky taste.

Chili flakes offer bursts of heat and color.

Kosher salt has a coarser texture than table salt, allowing for better control when seasoning.

Preparing the Cowboy Butter

To create cowboy butter, start with softened unsalted butter as the base. In a small bowl, combine the butter with minced garlic for a savory kick.

Add a dollop of Dijon mustard and coarse mustard for depth and texture. These provide a tangy contrast to the rich butter.

Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and grate some lemon zest. The citrus brightens the flavor profile and cuts through the richness.

For heat lovers, incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce. This transforms the mixture into a spicy butter variation.

Finely chop fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill. Fold these into the butter mixture for added freshness and color.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Shape the cowboy butter into a log using plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm, allowing flavors to meld.

To use, slice coins of the chilled butter and melt over grilled or roasted corn. The heat will release the aromatic compounds, enhancing the corn’s natural sweetness.

Corn on the Cob Preparation

Properly preparing corn on the cob is crucial for achieving delicious results with cowboy butter. Two popular methods are grilling and boiling or steaming.

Grilling Corn

Grilling corn imparts a smoky flavor and appealing char marks. Start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Brush each ear with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Place the corn directly on clean grill grates. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even charring. The kernels should be tender and lightly charred when done.

For extra flavor, consider grilling corn alongside ribeye steaks. The beef drippings will enhance the corn’s taste.

Boiling or Steaming Corn

Boiling or steaming offers a quicker, more traditional preparation method. Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.

For boiling, add husked corn and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender. For steaming, place corn in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 4-6 minutes.

Both methods preserve the corn’s natural sweetness. After cooking, pat the corn dry before applying cowboy butter to ensure the sauce adheres well.

Pairing Cowboy Butter with Dishes

Cowboy butter’s versatility shines as it complements a wide range of dishes. Its rich, savory flavor enhances both proteins and vegetables, making it a go-to condiment for various meals.

Meat and Poultry

Cowboy butter pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats. It adds depth to steak, creating a luxurious finish that elevates the beef’s natural flavors. Brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking or serve it alongside for dipping.

For chicken, cowboy butter can be used as a basting sauce. It keeps the meat moist and imparts a zesty flavor profile. Try it with roasted or grilled chicken breasts or thighs.

Pork chops and tenderloin also benefit from a dollop of cowboy butter. The herbs and spices complement the mild taste of pork, creating a more robust dish.

Vegetables and Sides

Grilled corn becomes a delicious side dish when slathered with cowboy butter. The combination of sweet corn and savory butter is irresistible.

Baked potatoes reach new heights with a generous serving of cowboy butter. It melts into the fluffy interior, infusing the potato with garlic and herbs.

Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus pair wonderfully with cowboy butter. Toss them in the butter before roasting or drizzle it on after for added flavor.

Other Uses

Cowboy butter transforms ordinary toast into a gourmet treat. Spread it on warm, crusty bread for a quick and tasty snack.

Use it as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or garlic knots. The creamy texture and bold flavors make it perfect for dipping.

Stir cowboy butter into mashed potatoes for an instant flavor boost. It adds richness and complexity to this classic side dish.

For a unique twist, incorporate cowboy butter into lasagna or pasta dishes. It can be used to sauté vegetables or mixed into the ricotta filling for extra zest.

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy butter corn shines as a versatile side dish for various occasions. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats at backyard barbecues and cookouts.

For family dinners, serve the corn alongside roasted chicken or steak. The rich, flavorful butter complements hearty main courses beautifully.

Present the corn on a large platter for a striking visual effect. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color.

Consider offering additional toppings for guests to customize their corn. Options include:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Crumbled bacon
• Chopped fresh chives
• Red pepper flakes

For a fun, hands-on experience, set up a “corn bar” where guests can choose their own toppings and seasonings.

Slice the corn into smaller sections for easier handling, especially for children or at more formal gatherings.

Leftover cowboy butter can be used to enhance other dishes. Try spreading it on toast or melting it over baked potatoes.

Additional Tips and Variations

Experiment with adding horseradish to your cowboy butter for an extra kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Try using an air fryer to cook corn before applying the cowboy butter sauce. This method creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior.

Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of crushed red pepper. For a milder version, reduce or omit it entirely.

Consider preparing a larger batch of cowboy butter sauce and storing it in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week when properly sealed.

Customize the herb blend to suit your preferences. Try substituting chives for green onions or adding fresh dill for a unique flavor profile.

For a smoky twist, incorporate a small amount of smoked paprika into the cowboy butter mixture.

Serve the cowboy butter sauce as a dipping option for other vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots.

Use leftover cowboy butter to enhance the flavor of grilled meats or as a spread for crusty bread.