Garlic Herb and Anchovy Compound Butter Recipe
Introduction
This Garlic Herb and Anchovy Compound Butter is a flavorful and versatile addition to your kitchen. Rich with garlic, fresh dill, and the umami depth of anchovies, it elevates simple dishes with ease and sophistication.

Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 oz anchovies (packed in oil, drained)
- ½ bunch dill
Instructions
- Step 1: If using a food processor, add the softened butter, garlic cloves, drained anchovies, and dill into the bowl.
- Step 2: Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: If you don’t have a food processor, grate the garlic cloves or use a garlic press, finely chop the dill and anchovies.
- Step 4: In a bowl, combine the softened butter with the prepared garlic, anchovies, and dill, mixing thoroughly with a fork until smooth.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, reduce the anchovies to 1 oz or substitute with capers.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh contrast.
- Try swapping dill with parsley or chives for a different herb profile.
- For an extra touch of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Storage
Store the compound butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Alternatively, wrap it tightly in waxed paper or plastic wrap, shape into a cylinder, and chill before slicing. For longer storage, freeze it for several months and thaw slices as needed. Reheat gently if spreading on warm dishes.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the overall saltiness since anchovies are salty. Adjust other seasoning accordingly.
Will the anchovy flavor be overpowering?
The anchovies add a subtle umami depth rather than a fishy taste. Start with the suggested amount and adjust to your preference for a balanced flavor.
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Garlic Herb and Anchovy Compound Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup (about 8 servings of 2 tablespoons each) 1x
Description
This Garlic Herb and Anchovy Compound Butter is a flavorful and versatile spread that combines creamy butter with the pungent taste of garlic, savory anchovies, and fresh dill. Perfect for enhancing bread, steak, roasted chicken, or mashed potatoes, this easy-to-make butter adds a gourmet touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Compound Butter Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 oz anchovies, packed in oil and drained
- ½ bunch fresh dill
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Peel and closely prepare the garlic cloves by either grating or using a garlic press. Finely chop the fresh dill and rinse the anchovies to drain the excess oil.
- Using a Food Processor: Place the softened butter, garlic, anchovies, and dill into a food processor. Blend all ingredients until the mixture is smooth and uniformly combined, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Without a Food Processor: In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, grated garlic, finely chopped dill, and anchovies. Use a fork to thoroughly mix and mash the ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated.
- Store the Butter: Transfer the compound butter to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. Alternatively, spread the butter on waxed paper or plastic wrap, roll into a cylinder, chill until firm, and slice as needed.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage: Wrap the butter tightly and store it in the freezer for several months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
- Serving Suggestions: Use this compound butter to enhance the flavor of bread, melt over steak, add richness to roasted chicken, or mix into mashed potatoes for a delicious herbaceous boost.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier blending and mixing.
- If you prefer a milder anchovy flavor, reduce the amount slightly or rinse them thoroughly before adding.
- The compound butter can be customized with other herbs like parsley or chives based on your preference.
- Keep the butter tightly wrapped when storing to prevent absorption of other fridge odors.
- This butter is best used within two weeks refrigerated, or frozen for longer shelf life.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: compound butter, anchovy butter, garlic herb butter, savory butter, flavored butter, homemade butter spread, easy compound butter

