Why is it called cowboy butter?

The name "cowboy butter" likely comes from its bold, rustic flavor and heavy use of fire-grilled meats—classic cowboy fare. It's the kind of rich, no-fuss seasoning you'd imagine being used around a campfire in the American West. Though there’s no official origin, the name reflects its strong, smoky, and savory profile.

What does cowboy butter taste like?

Cowboy butter tastes creamy, garlicky, zesty, and slightly spicy. The butter base smooths everything out, while garlic, mustard, lemon, and herbs add brightness. Smoked paprika and red pepper flakes bring a subtle heat. The result is rich, tangy, and savory—perfect on steak, bread, and roasted veggies.

What is Gordon Ramsay's cowboy butter?

Gordon Ramsay hasn’t released an official cowboy butter recipe, but versions inspired by his style often add Worcestershire sauce, shallots, or finely chopped fresh herbs for complexity. Some versions also include Dijon and lemon zest—key flavor notes in his compound butter techniques.

Where can I buy cowboy butter?

Most cowboy butter recipes are homemade, but you may find pre-made options or seasoning blends online or in specialty stores. Brands like Kinder’s offer “Cowboy Butter Seasoning.” However, homemade versions are fresher, customizable, and typically more flavorful.

Cowboy Butter Recipe: 1 Bold Favorite Americans Love

Name: Cowboy Butter: The Bold, Flavor-Packed Compound Butter You’ll Want on Everything
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp chopped parsley; 1 tbsp chopped chives; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt & black pepper to taste

Ingredients

Scale

1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

2 tbsp chopped parsley

1 tbsp chopped chives

½ tsp red pepper flakes

½ tsp smoked paprika

¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt & black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients into softened butter.

2. To serve melted: melt in a saucepan, stir until blended, serve warm.

3. To make compound: roll into a log in parchment paper, chill 1 hour, slice and use.

Notes

Store up to 2 weeks in the fridge or 3 months in freezer. Freeze in cubes for easy use.

Author: Adam Moretti
Prep Time: 5
Cook Time: 5
Category: Condiment
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American