Description
A flavorful and spicy garlic butter sauce made with melted butter, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. This versatile sauce is perfect for drizzling over grilled shrimp, steak, roasted vegetables, or pasta, and can also be used as a zesty dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s or sriracha)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter carefully to avoid burning.
- Cook the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned to release its flavor perfectly.
- Add Spices and Sauces: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 1 to 2 more minutes so all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Remove from Heat and Serve: Take the saucepan off the heat and optionally strain the sauce for a smoother texture. Serve warm over your favorite dishes or as a dipping sauce, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the hot sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
- For a smoother texture, strain the sauce before serving to remove minced garlic bits.
- This sauce can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated just before serving without losing flavor or texture.
