Kinder’s Cowboy Butter seasoning adds a rich, buttery flavor to steaks and other dishes. This versatile blend combines real butter with garlic, herbs, Dijon mustard, and a hint of red chile. To use Kinder’s Cowboy Butter, simply sprinkle it generously over steaks before grilling or cooking on the stovetop.

The seasoning enhances the natural flavors of beef while providing a savory, slightly tangy profile. It comes in a convenient 9.7-ounce bottle with a dual opening lid for easy measuring or sprinkling. The premium quality blend contains no artificial colors or flavors, allowing the natural ingredients to shine through.

For those who enjoy making their own seasoned butter, a homemade cowboy butter can be created by mixing softened butter with similar ingredients. This can be shaped into a log, refrigerated, and sliced as needed for use on steaks or as a flavorful spread.

What Is Cowboy Butter?

Cowboy butter is a savory compound butter infused with herbs, spices, and aromatics. It elevates the flavor of steaks, grilled meats, and other dishes.

This flavorful butter typically contains unsalted butter as its base. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme are added for a garden-fresh taste.

Garlic is a key ingredient, providing a pungent kick. Lemon zest and juice contribute bright citrus notes.

Common spices in cowboy butter include:

• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Black pepper

Some recipes incorporate Dijon mustard for extra tang. Salt is usually added to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Cowboy butter can be shaped into a log and chilled for easy slicing. It’s often served alongside steaks or used as a finishing touch on grilled meats.

The versatile condiment also works well as a spread for bread or a dipping sauce for vegetables. Its rich, complex flavors complement a variety of dishes.

Key Ingredients in Cowboy Butter

Cowboy butter combines rich, creamy butter with a flavorful blend of herbs, spices, and zesty additions. This compound butter elevates steaks and other dishes with its savory, tangy profile.

Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs form the backbone of cowboy butter’s distinctive taste. Parsley adds a bright, grassy note, while thyme contributes an earthy, slightly minty flavor. Chives provide a mild onion-like taste. Finely minced garlic infuses the butter with pungent, aromatic depth.

For heat and complexity, spices play a crucial role. Black pepper offers a sharp bite, while cayenne or red pepper flakes bring a spicy kick. Paprika adds a sweet, smoky undertone. Some recipes incorporate chili powder or crushed red pepper for additional warmth.

Dried herbs and spice blends can be used as alternatives to fresh ingredients. Garlic powder provides convenience, while Italian seasoning offers a pre-mixed herb combination.

Citrus and Acids

Citrus elements brighten the butter’s flavor profile. Lemon juice and zest contribute tangy, zesty notes that cut through the richness of the butter. Some variations incorporate lime for a different citrus twist.

Acidic components balance the butter’s flavors. Dijon mustard adds tanginess and depth. Coarse-grained mustard offers texture and a more rustic appeal. Hot sauce brings acidity along with heat, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.

Additional Flavor Enhancers

Salt is crucial for enhancing all flavors in cowboy butter. Kosher salt is often preferred for its clean taste and ease of distribution. Some recipes call for seasoned salts for added complexity.

Shallots provide a delicate onion flavor that complements the herbs and spices. Finely minced, they integrate smoothly into the butter mixture.

For those seeking bolder flavors, additions like cilantro or chili flakes can customize the butter’s profile. Worcestershire sauce adds umami depth, while honey can introduce a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.

Cowboy Butter Preparation

Cowboy butter is a flavorful compound butter that elevates steaks and other dishes. To prepare it, start with softened unsalted butter at room temperature.

In a bowl, mix the butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like parsley and chives, and zest from a lemon. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and spices such as smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Stir the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and evenly blended.

Transfer the butter mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape it into a log, twisting the ends to secure it.

Refrigerate the cowboy butter log for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the butter to firm up.

Once chilled, slice the butter into rounds. It can be served alongside grilled steaks, spread on bread, or melted over vegetables.

Store unused portions in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the butter log for up to 3 months.

Using Cowboy Butter with Meats

Cowboy butter enhances the flavors of various meats, adding a rich, savory dimension to your dishes. Its versatile blend of herbs and spices complements beef, poultry, and seafood alike.

Steak

Cowboy butter elevates steak to new heights of flavor. Brush it onto a grilled ribeye just before serving for a luxurious finish. The butter melts into the hot meat, creating a luscious coating.

For best results, let steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. Season with salt and pepper, then grill to desired doneness. Apply cowboy butter generously in the last minute of cooking or immediately after removing from heat.

Try slicing the steak and arranging it on a platter with dollops of cowboy butter on top. The heat will melt the butter, creating an irresistible sauce.

Chicken

Cowboy butter works wonders with chicken, whether grilled, roasted, or pan-seared. It adds moisture and flavor to lean breast meat.

Rub cowboy butter under the skin of a whole chicken before roasting. This infuses the meat with flavor as it cooks. For grilled chicken, baste with melted cowboy butter during the last few minutes of cooking.

For a quick weeknight meal, pan-sear chicken breasts and top with a pat of cowboy butter. The residual heat will melt it into a delicious sauce.

Grilled Meats and Seafood

Cowboy butter is a versatile companion for various grilled meats and seafood. It adds depth to pork chops, lamb, and even robust fish like salmon or tuna.

Brush melted cowboy butter onto grilled meats during the last few minutes of cooking. For seafood, apply it immediately after removing from the grill to prevent overcooking.

Try wrapping shrimp or scallops in foil packets with cowboy butter before grilling. The butter will create a flavorful steam bath, keeping the seafood moist and tender.

Cowboy Butter with Vegetables and Breads

Cowboy butter elevates the flavors of vegetables and breads, adding richness and zest to simple dishes. This versatile compound butter pairs exceptionally well with starchy sides and crusty breads.

Corn and Potatoes

Grilled corn benefits greatly from a generous slathering of cowboy butter. The butter’s blend of herbs and spices enhances the sweetness of the corn while adding a savory kick. To apply, brush the melted butter onto hot corn straight off the grill.

Baked potatoes reach new heights when topped with cowboy butter. Split open a hot potato and add a dollop of the flavored butter. It melts into the fluffy interior, infusing it with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon.

Roasted potatoes also pair well with cowboy butter. Toss hot roasted potato wedges or cubes with melted cowboy butter just before serving. The butter coats the crispy exterior, adding flavor and a glossy finish.

Breads

Cowboy butter transforms ordinary bread into a delicious side dish. Spread it on warm slices of crusty bread or rolls for an instant upgrade to any meal. The butter melts slightly, allowing its flavors to permeate the bread.

For an elevated garlic bread, spread cowboy butter on halved baguettes or Italian bread. Broil until golden and bubbly. The result is a flavorful, herb-infused garlic bread that complements pasta dishes or stands alone as an appetizer.

Cornbread gains a savory twist when paired with cowboy butter. Serve warm cornbread squares or muffins with a side of softened cowboy butter for spreading. The butter’s zesty flavors complement the corn’s natural sweetness.

Other Uses for Cowboy Butter

Cowboy butter’s versatility extends far beyond steak seasoning. This flavorful blend can be used as a delicious dip for bread, vegetables, or seafood. Its rich, buttery taste pairs exceptionally well with artichokes, crab legs, and lobster.

As a spread, cowboy butter elevates sandwiches and wraps. Try it on grilled cheese for a gourmet twist, or use it to add zest to turkey and avocado wraps. It also works wonderfully as a compound butter for corn on the cob or baked potatoes.

For a unique condiment, mix cowboy butter with mayo or sour cream. This creates a tasty sauce for burgers, fries, or roasted vegetables. It can also be used as a marinade for chicken or fish, infusing them with its savory flavors.

Cowboy butter makes an excellent dipping sauce for appetizers. Serve it alongside chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, or garlic bread. It can even be melted and drizzled over popcorn for a gourmet movie night snack.

• Dip for bread and vegetables
• Spread for sandwiches and wraps
• Compound butter for corn and potatoes
• Condiment for burgers and fries
• Marinade for chicken and fish
• Dipping sauce for appetizers

Preserving Cowboy Butter

Proper storage methods are crucial for maintaining the quality and freshness of Kinder’s Cowboy Butter. Refrigeration and freezing offer effective ways to extend its shelf life while preserving its delicious flavors.

Refrigerating

Store Kinder’s Cowboy Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method keeps the butter fresh for up to 2 weeks. Place the butter in a glass jar or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent absorption of other food odors.

Before using refrigerated cowboy butter, let it sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes to soften. This makes it easier to spread on steaks or other dishes.

Avoid storing the butter near strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb flavors easily. Keep it on a middle shelf in the refrigerator for optimal temperature control.

Freezing

Freezing extends the shelf life of Kinder’s Cowboy Butter for up to 6 months. Divide the butter into smaller portions before freezing for convenient use. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date to track freshness.

To thaw frozen cowboy butter, transfer it to the refrigerator 24 hours before use. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can lead to bacterial growth. Once thawed, use within 2 weeks for best quality.

Creative Variations and Additions

Experimenting with Kinder’s Cowboy Butter can lead to exciting flavor combinations. Adding red pepper flakes or crushed red pepper introduces a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy heat.

For a tangy twist, mix in some horseradish. This bold addition complements the buttery base and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Cheese lovers can incorporate brie into the butter mixture. The creamy, mild flavor of brie pairs wonderfully with the existing herbs and spices.

Try these creative variations:

• Spicy Cowboy Butter: Add 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Zesty Horseradish Blend: Mix in 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
• Brie Butter Fusion: Fold in 2 oz softened brie cheese

These additions can be mixed directly into the Kinder’s Cowboy Butter or used as toppings. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Remember to adjust other seasonings as needed when incorporating new flavors. The goal is to enhance, not overpower, the original Cowboy Butter taste.

Tips for Serving and Presentation

Serve Kinder’s Cowboy Butter at room temperature for optimal spreadability. Allow it to sit out for 30 minutes before use.

Present the butter in small ramekins or butter dishes for easy access. This allows guests to customize their portions.

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color and enhance visual appeal.

For grilling enthusiasts, brush the butter directly onto steaks or other meats during the last few minutes of cooking. This creates a flavorful, golden crust.

Create butter pats by slicing a chilled log of Cowboy Butter. Arrange these on a platter for an elegant touch at dinner parties.

Melt the butter and serve it as a dipping sauce for bread, vegetables, or seafood. Use small bowls for individual servings.

Incorporate lemon juice into the butter mixture for a citrusy twist. This brightens the flavor and complements grilled dishes.

Pair Kinder’s Cowboy Butter with a variety of proteins beyond steak. It works well with chicken, fish, and even grilled vegetables.

Consider offering both plain and Cowboy Butter options to cater to different preferences at gatherings.