Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This lemon butter sauce is a bright and creamy addition that elevates seafood, chicken, or vegetables. With a perfect balance of tangy lemon and rich butter, it’s simple to make and adds a gourmet touch to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lemon
- 6 Tbsp. butter (divided into 4 Tbsp. and 2 Tbsp.)
- 1 Tbsp. garlic (minced)
- 1 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half & half)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 2: Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the skillet and stir well. Continue cooking the mixture for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Step 3: Pour in 1 cup of white wine or chicken broth and stir. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until the butter has melted.
- Step 5: Slowly stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half & half. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor, and adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- Add freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for an herby twist.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a little longer to reduce it further before adding cream.
Storage
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the butter and cream from separating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving for best texture and flavor.
What dishes pair well with lemon butter sauce?
This sauce is excellent over grilled or baked fish, sautéed chicken breasts, steamed vegetables, or pasta dishes.
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Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup of sauce, serves 4 1x
Description
This tangy and creamy Lemon Butter Sauce is a versatile and delicious condiment perfect for enhancing seafood, chicken, or vegetables. Made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, white wine, and a touch of cream, it delivers a rich, buttery flavor with a refreshing citrusy kick. Quick to prepare on the stovetop, this sauce brings bright, indulgent notes to your meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lemon
- 6 Tbsp. butter (divided into 4 Tbsp. and 2 Tbsp.)
- 1 Tbsp. garlic (minced)
- 1 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half & half)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened but not browned.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice from one lemon into the skillet with the garlic butter mixture, stirring to combine and infuse the sauce with fresh citrus flavor.
- Incorporate White Wine: Pour in 1 cup of white wine (or chicken broth if preferred). Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and deepen the flavors.
- Add Remaining Butter and Season: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir until melted and well combined. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
- Finish with Cream: Slowly stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half & half, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth, rich sauce. Heat through gently but do not boil. Serve immediately over your favorite dishes and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and natural flavor.
- Substitute white wine with chicken broth to make the sauce non-alcoholic.
- Do not burn the garlic; cook it slowly over medium heat to avoid bitterness.
- Heavy cream adds richness; half & half can be used for a lighter option.
- This sauce pairs excellently with grilled or baked fish, chicken breasts, or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Lemon butter sauce, garlic lemon sauce, creamy lemon sauce, white wine sauce, seafood sauce
