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Spicy Garlic Butter Sauce

A bold and simple sauce made with warm butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes, perfect for pairing with shrimp, chicken, pasta, and bread.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 6-8 cloves Garlic (minced)
Spice Components
  • 1 tsp Red pepper flakes (or to taste) Adjust according to heat preference
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional) For extra heat
  • 1/4 cup Chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/8 tsp Black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish) Optional

Method
 

Prepare the Base
  1. Cut the butter into pieces so it melts fast.
  2. Heat the saucepan over low heat.
  3. Add butter and let it melt slowly. Do not let it brown.
  4. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 to 45 seconds. Cook just until the garlic smells strong. Do not burn it.
Simmer and Season
  1. Add red pepper flakes and, if you like, cayenne pepper.
  2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
  3. Turn the heat to low and let the mix simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. The broth will thin the butter and let the flavors blend.
  4. Add lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust. Add more red pepper flakes if you want more heat.
Finish and Serve
  1. Turn off the heat.
  2. Stir in the chopped parsley for fresh color and taste.
  3. Pour the sauce over cooked food or place it in a small bowl for dipping.

Notes

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on low heat so the butter does not separate. If frozen, thaw cubes in the fridge overnight or melt gently in a pan on low heat.