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Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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