Cowboy Butter Ranch Recipe

This creamy herb dressing is perfect for a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to fresh salads. It's quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

In a large Mason jar with a lid, combine the melted butter, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dill, chives, and smoked paprika. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until all the ingredients are well combined.

Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once the seasoning is adjusted to your liking, the dressing is ready to serve. For the best flavor, serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

This dressing pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fried chicken, pizza, fries, or fresh salads. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 162
• Total Fat: 15g (19% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (21% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 17mg (6% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 191mg (8% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 8g (3% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 2g (4% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 36mg (40% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 38mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (3% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 145mg (3% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs. For those with dietary restrictions or concerns, consult a medical professional before preparing this recipe.

The Story Behind Cowboy Butter Ranch

The origins of Cowboy Butter Ranch can be traced back to the heart of American cuisine, where ranch-style dressings and flavorful butter sauces were staples of home cooking. Ranch dressing itself was invented in the 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber turned chef in California, and quickly gained popularity across the United States. Cowboy Butter, on the other hand, emerged as a rustic, bold-flavored condiment popular among ranchers and outdoor cooks in the American West. Combining these two elements, Cowboy Butter Ranch is a modern fusion that celebrates rich, creamy textures with robust, smoky flavors, perfectly reflecting the adventurous spirit of the American frontier.

Regional Characteristics

This dressing has strong roots in the Southwestern and Western United States. In these regions, ingredients like smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and citrus are often incorporated to complement grilled meats and hearty fare. Local variations may include the use of regional dairy products, such as cultured buttermilk or farm-fresh butter, which give the sauce a slightly tangy and creamy profile. The use of fresh herbs like dill and chives, along with garlic and Dijon mustard, is characteristic of modern Western American cuisine, where bold flavors are prized in both casual and fine dining settings.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While it shares similarities with classic ranch dressing and garlic butter sauces, Cowboy Butter Ranch stands out due to its combination of smoked paprika, fresh herbs, and the richness of melted butter. Unlike traditional ranch, which relies heavily on mayonnaise and buttermilk, this version emphasizes a balance between the creaminess of yogurt and the savory depth of butter. The lemon zest and juice add a bright, acidic note that distinguishes it from other buttery dressings. The result is a sauce that is both versatile and bold, capable of enhancing everything from fried chicken to roasted vegetables.

Where It Is Typically Served

Cowboy Butter Ranch is extremely versatile and commonly served in casual dining settings, backyard barbecues, and steakhouse-style meals. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, including steak, chicken, and pork, as well as fried foods like fries or onion rings. It is also popular as a dipping sauce for pizza, fresh vegetables, and even hearty salads. Many chefs in the Southwestern United States have adopted it as a signature accompaniment due to its ability to elevate simple dishes with a burst of smoky, herby flavor.

Interesting Facts

• The term cowboy butter is believed to originate from the early 20th century, when ranch hands would prepare rich, spiced butter to preserve meat and add flavor to their meals on the trail.
• Although it is often used as a dipping sauce or salad dressing, Cowboy Butter Ranch can also be warmed slightly and used as a finishing sauce over grilled vegetables or seafood.
• The recipes combination of Greek yogurt and buttermilk provides a tangy base while reducing overall fat compared to traditional all-butter sauces, making it a slightly lighter yet flavorful option.
• It has gained popularity in modern American cuisine as a fusion comfort food element, blending the rustic appeal of cowboy butter with the creamy sophistication of ranch dressing.
• Many variations include additional spices like cayenne pepper or smoked chili powder to give an extra kick, making it a favorite among fans of bold Southwestern flavors.

FAQ about Cowboy Butter Ranch Recipe

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