Butter, but Better: Homemade Scallion Butter That Elevates Every Bite
Scallion butter is one of those recipes I always have on hand for an instant flavor upgrade. The richness of butter paired with the fresh, sharp taste of green onions is perfect for everything from roasted veggies and steak to spreading on toast. It’s quick to prepare with just four ingredients and ready in under 10 minutes, making it a go-to that never disappoints.
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Scallion butter is a simple yet incredibly versatile compound butter that can elevate any dish. This herbaceous spread is a delicious blend of rich, creamy butter infused with bright flavors or scallion and a touch of garlic. This combination creates a spread that is full of vibrant taste.
I love to keep a batch of scallion butter in my fridge, as it’s an easy way to elevate even the most basic meals. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Ingredients
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the level of seasoning in your recipe. Make sure the butter is at room temperature.
Scallion (Green Onion): The mild, slightly sharp flavor of scallions works beautifully in this butter. Be sure to use both green and white parts. Choose scallions that have firm, bright green stalks with crisp white bulbs for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for this recipe, offering a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the scallions. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it melts seamlessly into the butter, allowing its flavor to infuse every bite.
See the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients and quantities.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Heat oil in a frying pan or skillet and add garlic. Saute for one minute. Next, add the scallion and saute for 3-4 minutes or until the scallions begin to char. Turn off the heat and let it cool down completely.
Step 2: Transfer it to a food processor along with butter and salt. Pulse until the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Roll the butter into a log shape, about 1- 1½ inches in diameter. Flatten the ends and tighten the wrap to create a firm log. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Expert Tips
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This ensures the ingredients are incorporated evenly without lumps. If you’re short on time, cut the butter into small cubes to soften faster.
- Finely chopping the green onions ensures their flavor is evenly distributed throughout the butter. Use both the white and green parts for a balance of sharpness and freshness.
- Scallion butter freezes beautifully, so make extra! Roll it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Simply slice off what you need when ready to use.
How To Use Scallion Butter
- Spread or Drizzle: Slather scallion butter on warm bread, toast, bagels, or biscuits for a quick snack, or melt it over roasted or grilled vegetables like corn, jacket potatoes, or roasted asparagus to enhance flavor.
- Top Proteins: Add a dollop to grilled steak, chicken, pork chops, or seafood like grilled salmon, shrimp, or scallops. The butter melts into the dish, creating a rich, savory sauce.
- Mix into Sides: Stir scallion butter into mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a creamy touch to elevate these comforting sides.
- Cook or Finish Dishes: Use it as a cooking butter for sautéing vegetables or pan-searing meats, or swirl it into hot soups and stews just before serving.
- Upgrade Breakfast: Use scallion butter to make omelets or stir it into scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast boost. I love to add it to this lentil and eggs breakfast scramble.
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Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 scallions
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat oil in a frying pan or skillet and add garlic. Saute for one minute. Next, add the scallion and saute for 3-4 minutes or until the scallions begin to char. Turn off the heat and let it cool down completely.
- Transfer it to a food processor along with butter and salt. Pulse until the mixture is smooth. Roll the butter into a log shape, about 1- 1½ inches in diameter. Flatten the ends and tighten the wrap to create a firm log.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. The scallion butter will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This ensures the ingredients are incorporated evenly without lumps. If you’re short on time, cut the butter into small cubes to soften faster.
- Finely chopping the green onions ensures their flavor is evenly distributed throughout the butter. Use both the white and green parts for a balance of sharpness and freshness.
- Scallion butter freezes beautifully, so make extra! Roll it into a log, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Simply slice off what you need when ready to use.