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

1 stick (½ cup / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup mayonnaise

1 block (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

Instructions

Step 1: Combine dried parsley, minced chives, minced garlic, minced onion, crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, citric acid, dried thyme, mustard powder, and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Whisk or stir until the seasoning is evenly mixed.

Step 2: Store the seasoning blend in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Step 3: To make Cowboy Butter, mix 2 tablespoons of the seasoning with softened unsalted butter in a medium bowl until fully combined.

Step 4: Transfer the butter mixture to a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape into a log, roll tightly, twist the ends to seal, and refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.

Step 5: Slice and use Cowboy Butter on steak, corn, vegetables, or bread, or melt it as a dipping sauce.

Step 6: To make Cowboy Mayo, stir 2 tablespoons of the seasoning into 1 cup of mayonnaise until smooth and well mixed.

Step 7: Transfer the mixture to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop. Use as a spread or dip for sandwiches, burgers, or snacks.

Step 8: To make Cowboy Cream Cheese, blend 2 tablespoons of the seasoning with softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula until smooth and fully combined.

Step 9: Cover and refrigerate the cream cheese mixture for 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a spread with crackers, bagels, or as a savory addition to your meals.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level to your preference.

Use fresh herbs in place of dried for a brighter flavor, but reduce quantities accordingly.

Try melting Cowboy Butter over grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a rich, flavorful finish.

Mix the seasoning into sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy dip alternative.

Storage

Store the dry Cowboy Butter Seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Prepared Cowboy Butter should be refrigerated and used within 2 weeks. Cowboy Mayo and Cowboy Cream Cheese should be kept refrigerated and are best used within one week. Reheat Cowboy Butter gently if melted for dipping.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit added salt in the seasoning to avoid it becoming too salty.

How can I make Cowboy Butter Seasoning fresh instead of dried?

Fresh herbs can be used, but you will need to increase the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs. Keep in mind fresh herbs may change the texture and shelf life of the seasoning blend.