Steakhouse Butter
Gari McMellon
A slow-infused butter made from beef bones, fresh herbs, and garlic. This rich finishing butter melts over hot steak like a sauce and adds deep, savory flavor without overpowering.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 2 hours hrs
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, French, Mediterranean
- Beef bones, trimmings, or a combination (about 8–12 oz, with any meat or fat attached)
- 1 pound unsalted butter
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 3-4 garlic, lightly smashed
- 1/2-1 tsp kosher salt, to taste
- 1/4 tsp white pepper (optional)
1. Start the infusion
Place the beef bones and butter into a heavy-bottomed pan or small pot. Set over low heat and allow the butter to melt slowly.2. Add the herbs
Once the butter is melted, add the thyme and rosemary. Keep the heat low so the butter stays at a very gentle simmer.3. Infuse
Let the butter infuse for 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not allow the butter to boil or brown.4. Add the garlic
During the last 5–10 minutes of cooking, add the smashed garlic cloves.5. Strain
Remove from heat. Strain the butter through a fine mesh strainer, or line the strainer with cheesecloth for a smoother finish. Discard the bones, herbs, and garlic.6. Season
While still warm, stir in ½ teaspoon kosher salt and the white pepper, if using. Taste and add additional salt as needed, up to ¾ teaspoon total.7. Store
Option 1: Pour into ice cube trays or silicone molds and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container.Option 2: Pour into a jar and refrigerate until set.
How to Use
Melt over steak just before servingBaste steak in a hot skillet during the final minutes of cookingSpoon over steak bites right out of the panFinish burgers just before servingToss with crispy roasted potatoes
Keyword comfort food, hearty, homemade, savory