Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This creamy lemon butter sauce is a bright and luscious addition to seafood, chicken, or vegetables. Its rich texture combined with fresh citrus flavors makes it a versatile sauce to elevate everyday dishes.

Ingredients

• 120 grams unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 240 millilitres heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it begins to bubble, taking care not to let it brown.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly until aromatic and lightly softened.
3. Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
4. Step 4: Stir in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to infuse the citrus flavors.
5. Step 5: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk in Dijon mustard if using, for extra depth.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• To prevent the cream from curdling, keep the heat moderate and avoid boiling the sauce.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Swap fresh herbs with tarragon or basil for a different aromatic profile.

Storage

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture. Avoid boiling during reheating to prevent separation.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning the sauce.

Is this sauce suitable for pasta?

Absolutely. This lemon butter sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, especially when combined with seafood or vegetables for a light, flavorful dish.

Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 144 reviews

This creamy lemon butter sauce is a luxurious and flavorful accompaniment perfect for seafood, chicken, or vegetables. Made with rich butter, fragrant garlic, fresh lemon zest and juice, and silky heavy cream, this sauce balances tangy citrus notes with smooth creaminess. It’s quick to prepare on the stovetop and elevates any dish with its vibrant and luscious flavor.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: About 1 cup (serves 4) 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 120 grams unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 240 millilitres heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions

1. Melt Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it begins to bubble, careful not to let it brown.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly softened.
3. Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
4. Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice, letting the sauce simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to infuse citrus flavor.
5. Season and Finish: Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk in Dijon mustard if using to deepen the flavor profile.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the sauce from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Avoid boiling the cream to prevent the sauce from separating and maintain a smooth texture.
• This sauce pairs excellently with grilled or pan-seared seafood, chicken breasts, steamed vegetables, or pasta.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
• The Dijon mustard is optional but adds a subtle tang and complexity.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor.

Keywords: lemon butter sauce, creamy lemon sauce, garlic lemon sauce, butter sauce for seafood, quick homemade sauce