Copycat Kinder’s Cowboy Butter Seasoning Recipe

Kinder’s Cowboy Butter Seasoning is a bold, savory seasoning mix that’s sure to elevate everything from juicy steaks to fresh veggies. If you’re like me, you’re always searching for new ways to add some flair to your cooking, and this seasoning does just that.

How to make Kinder’s Cowboy Butter Seasoning

Kinder’s Cowboy Butter Seasoning is a premium spice blend designed to bring the flavor of compound “cowboy butter” (a buttery-garlic-herb sauce) into a convenient dry seasoning.

Ingredients

• Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – The rich, creamy base that gives this seasoning its signature flavor. Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds savory depth.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, finely chopped) – For a herby, bright touch.
• Onion Powder (2 tsp) – Brings subtle, savory sweetness.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tsp) – Adds tang and a hint of sharpness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tsp) – For acidity and freshness.
• Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a smoky aroma and color.
• Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp or more, optional) – For a touch of heat.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Balances and enhances the flavors.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Butter Base: In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter. Using a fork or a small whisk, mix until smooth and creamy. This will act as the base of your Cowboy Butter Seasoning.
2. Add Garlic and Dijon Mustard: Stir in minced garlic and Dijon mustard to create a tangy foundation. These two ingredients are key to building the bold, zesty flavor.
3. Incorporate Seasonings: Add the onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
4. Brighten with Lemon Juice and Parsley: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and fold in parsley. This adds brightness and color, balancing the richness of the butter with a refreshing zest.
5. Adjust for Preference: Taste test your mixture and adjust according to your preference. Want more heat? Add extra cayenne. Prefer a smokier flavor? Increase the paprika.

Tips for Success

• Softened Butter is Key: Using room-temperature butter is crucial for ensuring a smooth texture. If your butter is too hard, it won’t mix evenly with the spices.
• Let It Rest: Once prepared, let the seasoning sit for about 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If possible, refrigerate for a few hours before serving, especially if using it as a compound butter.

Versatility in Usage

• As a Rub: Use it to season steaks, chops, or salmon before grilling.
• As a Dip: Serve it melted alongside veggies, bread, or seafood.
• As a Sauce: Toss it with cooked pasta or drizzle it onto roasted vegetables for a savory finishing touch.

• Storage Matters: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will last for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; simply roll it into a log using wax paper and slice off portions as needed.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating your own Kinder’s Cowboy Butter Seasoning allows for a lot of flexibility when it comes to ingredients.

Butter Substitutes

• Olive Oil (or other Neutral Oil): If you’re avoiding dairy or looking for a lighter option, olive oil can be used instead of butter. It won’t yield the same creamy texture, but it will still deliver rich flavor. For the best results, consider using extra virgin olive oil.
• Ghee: If you want to keep the buttery flavor but need something lactose-free, ghee works well. It’s clarified butter without water or milk solids.
• Plant-Based Butters: Vegan butter brands (like Earth Balance or Miyoko’s) are excellent substitutes for those avoiding dairy. They offer similar texture and flavor.

Garlic Substitutes

• Garlic Powder: For convenience or if you’re out of fresh garlic, use garlic powder instead. Substitute approximately 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of fresh garlic.
• Shallots: Shallots offer a milder alternative to garlic with a subtle sweetness, making them a good substitute in recipes where a soft flavor is preferred.
• Garlic Paste: Similar to minced garlic, this paste works as a concentrated replacement. Use the same quantity indicated for fresh garlic.

Fresh Parsley Substitutes

• Dried Parsley: If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, dried parsley can work in a pinch. However, it won’t have the same vibrant color or flavor. Use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for every tablespoon of fresh parsley.
• Cilantro: Cilantro can add a similarly fresh, herbaceous note to the seasoning, but it has a slightly stronger flavor. Use sparingly.
• Chives: Fresh chives can provide color and a mild onion-like flavor if parsley isn’t available.

Dijon Mustard Substitutes

• Yellow Mustard: While less tangy than Dijon, yellow mustard can still provide a mild sharpness to the recipe. It’s slightly sweeter, so adjust the quantity based on preference.
• Whole Grain Mustard: It offers a hearty texture and bold flavor. It’s great for creating a rustic version of Kinder’s Cowboy Butter Seasoning due to the added depth.
• Spicy Brown Mustard: A zestier option with more heat, perfect for amplifying bold flavors in the seasoning.

Fresh Lemon Juice Substitutes

• White Vinegar: For a similar acidic punch, white vinegar can substitute lemon juice. Use about ½ teaspoon of vinegar for every teaspoon of lemon juice.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: It gives a tangy and slightly fruity flavor that can mimic the acidity of lemon juice.
• Lime Juice: Lime juice provides a comparable citrus kick, although it delivers a slightly sweeter taste profile.

Onion Powder Substitutes

• Dried Minced Onion: If you don’t have onion powder, use dried minced onion instead. It offers a similar onion flavor and can add a slight texture.
• Fresh Onion: Finely chop or grate fresh onion to substitute for its powdered counterpart. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

Paprika Substitutes

• Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika enhances flavor with a smoky twist, making it ideal for recipes that call for paprika.
• Chili Powder: Chili powder provides a bit of heat and depth, though it’s typically less sweet than paprika.

Cayenne Pepper Substitutes

• Red Pepper Flakes: A slightly less concentrated heat source, red pepper flakes can match cayenne pepper in spiciness.
• Chipotle Powder: Use chipotle powder for heat and smokiness—it’s perfect if you’re looking to accentuate the bold Cowboy Butter flavor profile.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce can add a similar kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

Salt Substitutes

• Kosher Salt: Kosher salt has a lighter flavor profile and coarser texture, making it a good substitute.
• Sea Salt: It offers a cleaner, natural flavor. Use the same quantity as regular table salt.
• Low-Sodium Salt: Great for those watching their sodium intake. Typically, low-sodium salts mimic the taste of regular salt while cutting back on sodium levels.

Black Pepper Substitutes

• White Pepper: White pepper has a milder and less aromatic flavor but works in a similar capacity as black pepper.
• Pepper Blends: A mix of pink, green, and black peppercorns can add complexity to your seasoning.

Final Thoughts

Making your version of Kinder’s Cowboy Butter Seasoning at home is a flavorful adventure that allows you to customize your recipes and impress friends and family.

More Kinder’s Recipes:

• Kinder’s Prime Steak with Black Garlic & Truffle Seasoning Recipe