Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce is a rich, spicy, and savory blend that adds bold flavor to seafood, steak, pasta, or vegetables. Combining the heat of Cajun spices with the smoothness of butter and the aromatic punch of garlic, this sauce is quick to make and elevates any dish it touches. Perfect for a seafood boil, dipping sauce, or drizzling over grilled meats.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
unsalted butter
fresh garlic (minced)
Cajun seasoning
paprika
onion powder
lemon juice
Worcestershire sauce
brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
directions
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and brown sugar. Stir until well combined and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of sauce.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Add a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.
Mix in heavy cream for a creamy version.
Blend in grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a tangier taste.
storage/reheating
Store Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until melted and warm, stirring well before serving.
Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but butter provides better flavor and richness.
Is this sauce very spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat, adjustable based on the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes used.
What dishes go well with this sauce?
Seafood boils, grilled shrimp, steak, chicken, pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based butter substitute.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate and reheat as needed; flavor improves over time.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Absolutely, or you can make your own blend for customized heat and flavor.
Can I add wine or broth?
Yes, a splash of white wine or chicken broth can add depth.
Conclusion
Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce is a powerhouse of flavor that transforms everyday meals into something special. With its bold spices, garlicky warmth, and buttery richness, it’s a versatile sauce you’ll reach for again and again. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a must-have for any spice lover’s kitchen.
PrintCajun Garlic Butter Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–7 minutes
- Total Time: 10–12 minutes
- Yield: About ½ cup (4 servings)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun / Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A zesty, buttery sauce with bold Cajun spices and garlic—perfect for drizzling, dipping, or basting seafood, steak, chicken, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 4–10 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1–2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne (if using); cook another 1–2 minutes.
- Add lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce; stir to combine.
- Simmer 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve warm or refrigerate; gently reheat before using.
Notes
- Adjust garlic and cayenne to taste.
- Store in airtight container refrigerated for up to 3–14 days (depending on garlic and citrus added).
- Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning—lasts 2–3 months.
- Use high‑quality European‑style unsalted butter for richer flavor.