🍋 Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Looking for the perfect lemon butter sauce recipe to elevate your meals? Whether you’re cooking seafood, chicken, or pasta, this simple sauce delivers creamy richness and citrusy brightness with just a few ingredients.

Want to master the fundamentals of sauce making? Learn how to build pan sauces like a chef with this beginner-friendly guide from MasterClass.

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🧈 What Is a Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe? (With Garlic & Wine Option)

A lemon butter sauce combines melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and seasonings into a versatile emulsion. It’s the go-to option when you want something light, tangy, and a little fancy without the fuss. This version adds optional garlic and wine for even more depth.

Learn how to store sauces safely with the official Food Safety Storage Guide.

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🥄 Ingredients for the Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

To make this classic lemon butter sauce, you’ll need:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (don’t use bottled!)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: splash of dry white wine or chicken broth

Try this sauce with juicy lemon and herb chicken or crispy boneless chicken thighs for mouthwatering results.

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Lemon Butter Sauce (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Melt 2 tbsp of butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add garlic, sauté until fragrant (1 minute).
3. Add lemon juice and optional wine or broth. Simmer briefly.
4. Lower heat, then whisk in remaining butter cubes, one at a time.
5. Stir until smooth and emulsified.
6. Season and add zest. Serve immediately.

Pair it with one-pan chicken and buttered noodles for an effortless comfort meal.

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🍽️ Best Dishes for Lemon Butter Sauce

This lemon butter sauce recipe is delicious on:

• Grilled or pan-seared fish
• Baked or fried chicken
• Sautéed vegetables
• Pasta or gnocchi
• Potatoes, rice, or quinoa

Try it with this crispy fish sandwich for a flavor-packed seafood dish.

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🌿 Recipe Variations: Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce and More

Add flair to your lemon butter sauce with these ideas:

• Creamy lemon butter sauce: Add ¼ cup cream
• Lemon garlic butter sauce: Use extra garlic and parsley
• Lemon caper butter sauce: Add 1 tbsp capers
• Vegan version: Swap butter for plant-based margarine

Looking for more ideas? Check out easy chicken sauce recipes for more flavor inspiration.

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⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid When Making Lemon Butter Sauce

• Don’t boil the butter – it will break the emulsion
• Don’t use bottled lemon juice – flavor will suffer
• Add butter slowly – to maintain a smooth sauce

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🧊 Storage Tips for Lemon Butter Sauce

• Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in an airtight container
• Reheat gently on low heat while whisking
• Avoid the microwave—it causes separation

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❓ FAQs – Lemon Butter Sauce Questions Answered

Can I freeze lemon butter sauce?

Freezing may break the emulsion. It’s best fresh.

How do I thicken it?

Simmer longer or add a touch of cream.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes—just check optional add-ins like broth.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Store and reheat slowly for best results.

What dishes pair best?

Perfect on fish, chicken with gravy, or veggies.

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✅ Final Thoughts on Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

This lemon butter sauce is your new go-to for flavor, elegance, and simplicity. Use it to transform weeknight meals into restaurant-worthy dishes. With fresh ingredients and a few pro tips, your next dinner will shine.

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