Melted Butter
Pure, liquid gold ready in under a minute. This fundamental kitchen staple is perfect for drizzling over popcorn, dipping seafood, or as a base for countless baking and cooking recipes. Learn the two foolproof methods for perfect melted butter every time.
For 4 servings
2 steps. 1 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Method 1: Stovetop Melting (1-2 minutes)
- b.Cut the butter into several small pieces and place them in a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
- c.Place the saucepan over low heat.
- d.Stir occasionally with a spatula as the butter melts to ensure it heats evenly.
- e.Remove the pan from the heat as soon as the last piece of butter has melted to prevent it from browning.
- f.If using, stir in the salt until dissolved.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Method 2: Microwave Melting (30-60 seconds)
- b.Cut the butter into pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
- c.Cover the bowl with a paper towel to prevent any splatters.
- d.Microwave on high in 15-second intervals, stirring gently after each interval.
- e.Stop heating when about 90% of the butter is liquid. The residual heat will melt the remaining small pieces.
- f.If using, stir in the salt until dissolved.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most even melting, cut the butter into tablespoon-sized pieces before heating.
- 2Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for the stovetop method to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
- 3When microwaving, always cover the bowl with a paper towel to keep your microwave clean from splatters.
- 4Stop heating when about 80-90% of the butter is melted. The residual heat will melt the remaining solids, preventing it from getting too hot and separating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Brown Butter (Beurre Noisette)
Continue heating the melted butter over low-medium heat after it melts. It will foam, and then the milk solids will turn brown and sink, releasing a nutty aroma. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve before using.
Garlic Herb ButterGarlic Herb Butter
Once the butter is melted, remove from heat and stir in 1 minced garlic clove and 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme. Let it sit for a minute for the flavors to infuse.
Clarified Butter (Ghee)Clarified Butter (Ghee)
Melt the butter slowly and skim off the white milk solids that rise to the top. Carefully pour the clear golden liquid into a container, leaving the remaining milk solids at the bottom of the pan.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Butter is a natural source of vitamins A, E, D, and K2, which are essential for vision, immune function, bone health, and skin health.
Provides Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)
Butter from grass-fed cows is a good source of CLA, a fatty acid that may have benefits for metabolism and reducing inflammation, though more research is needed.
Natural Energy Source
The fats in butter, particularly short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, provide a readily available source of energy for the body and can support gut health.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of melted butter (2 tablespoons) contains approximately 204 calories, which come almost entirely from fat.