Butter Sauce Recipe

Melt butter

Place a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter and allow it to melt slowly until foaming gently (do not brown).

Sweat aromatics

Add the minced shallot to the melted butter and sweat for 2–3 minutes until translucent but not browned. Add the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Make a light roux

Push the aromatics to one side, sprinkle 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour into the butter and stir constantly for 30–45 seconds to cook the raw flour taste, forming a light paste with the butter and aromatics.

Add liquids

Slowly whisk in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup whole milk, starting with a tablespoon at a time to incorporate smoothly. Raise heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken, about 4–6 minutes.

Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves. Allow the herbs to infuse in the simmering cream for 1–2 minutes.

Season the sauce with 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

If a silkier finish is desired, whisk in 1 tablespoon cold cubed butter, one piece at a time, off the heat to emulsify and slightly thicken the sauce. For extra richness and body, stir in 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan until melted and incorporated.

If the sauce becomes too thick, thin with up to 2 tablespoons warm milk or cream to reach desired consistency. If it's too thin, return to low heat and simmer gently, stirring, until reduced to the right thickness.

Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a warmed serving vessel if you prefer a perfectly smooth texture, pressing on solids with the back of a spoon.

Serve warm over fish, chicken, steamed vegetables, or pasta. Keeps refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; gently reheat over low heat, whisking and adding a splash of cream if needed.