Go Back
+ servings
Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce

Transform Your Dishes with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce

This creamy lemon butter sauce is a quick and easy way to elevate your dishes, bursting with flavor and perfect for seafood or pasta.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Provides richness and creaminess; using unsalted allows for better control of seasoning.
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic Adds aromatic depth; can be substituted with shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Ensures a thick, velvety sauce; for dairy-free option, use coconut cream.
  • 1 each lemon zest Enhances brightness and flavor; fresh lemon is irreplaceable for optimum zing.
  • 1 each fresh lemon juice Contributes acidity and freshness; essential for flavor.
  • to taste salt Balances flavors; adjust as desired.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper Adds spiciness; adjust according to palate.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Optional; adds complexity and tang, can be omitted.
  • to taste fresh parsley or chives For garnish, adding color and fresh flavor.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce
  1. Begin by placing 1/2 cup of unsalted butter into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt gently until it starts bubbling but does not brown, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Once the butter is melted, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic to the bubbling butter. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, stirring constantly.
  3. Carefully pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while reducing the heat slightly. Stir continuously as the mixture begins to simmer gently.
  4. Stir in the zest of one lemon and the juice from that same lemon, mixing well to incorporate the bright flavors.
  5. Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Optionally, whisk in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard at this stage.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 1gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 50mgVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.1mg

Notes

For best results, avoid boiling after adding lemon juice to prevent curdling. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!