A savory, herby butter perfect for bread, pasta, and more
There’s something truly special about homemade compound butter. This Italian-inspired version, rich with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, became one of my favorite kitchen staples after a dinner party where I served it alongside a warm baguette. Every guest asked for the recipe, and I’ve been making it ever since.
Whether you spread it on crusty bread, melt it over grilled chicken, or swirl it into pasta, this butter brings the bold, rustic flavors of Italy straight to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients – Only six pantry and fridge staples.
- Quick to make – Ready in under 10 minutes.
- Versatile – Use it on bread, grilled meats, vegetables, or pasta.
- Perfect for entertaining – Adds an elegant touch to any spread.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (drained and finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil (finely chopped)
- ½ tablespoon garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Baguette or French roll, for serving
Instructions
1. Whip the butter
In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat the room-temperature butter until light and fluffy. This creates the perfect base for mixing in the flavor elements.
2. Add flavor
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and minced garlic. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Season and taste
Add salt gradually, tasting as you go. You may adjust the salt depending on how salty your tomatoes are.
4. Store or serve
Transfer the compound butter to an airtight container or small jar. If serving right away, spread onto warm slices of baguette or French bread. For later use, store in the fridge.
Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality butter for the richest flavor.
- Soften your butter completely before mixing—it makes blending much easier.
- Chop ingredients finely so the butter spreads smoothly and evenly.
- Make it ahead – The flavors deepen after a few hours in the fridge.
- Optional additions – Add grated Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper for variation.
How to Use This Butter
This butter is incredibly versatile. Try it:
- Spread on toasted bread or warm rolls
- Melted over grilled chicken, steak, or fish
- Swirled into pasta or risotto
- As a finishing touch for roasted vegetables
- Added to scrambled eggs or omelets
Storage
Store the Italian compound butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, you can shape it into a log using plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just slice off a round whenever you need a burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Compound Butter is more than just a spread—it’s a flavor booster that turns the simplest dishes into something special. Easy to whip up and endlessly customizable, it’s one of those small touches that makes any meal feel gourmet.