Have you been looking for a way to make your go-to dishes even tastier? Say hello to bacon butter! This versatile addition to your kitchen is like a flavor booster, perfect for jazzing up your morning toast, adding a smoky twist to grilled favorites and more — bacon butter does it all.
Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about preparing this savory spread from scratch, including some handy tips to ensure your culinary journey is a success every time.
Exploring the versatility of bacon butter in cooking
If you've never tried bacon butter before, it's precisely as delicious as it sounds — the perfect fusion of crispy bacon and creamy butter. This culinary gem has become a go-to trick for enhancing dishes and has gained popularity in kitchens worldwide thanks to its versatility.
While commonly enjoyed spread on toast, bagels, or muffins for a savory breakfast twist, bacon butter goes beyond the ordinary. It's just as delightful melted over steamed veggies, smeared on baked potatoes or brushed onto grilled meats for an added burst of flavor. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, adding bacon butter to your cooking repertoire promises to tantalize taste buds and delight your loved ones every time.
Essential ingredients and simple steps for preparing bacon butter
Servings: 16
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Ingredients
- 1 pack of Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Bacon, chopped into ½-inch-sized pieces.
- 1 pound of softened butter, room temperature.
- 1 Tbsp. of garlic, minced.
- ½ cup of onions, diced.
- 1 Tbsp. of fresh chives, chopped.
- 1 Tbsp. of honey.
- ½ tsp. black pepper.
- Salt, to taste.
How to make bacon butter at home
- Step 1: Cook your bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it turns crispy, or around three to five minutes per side.
- Step 2: Once cooked, place the bacon on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain, and set aside. Reserve a few tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for cooking the garlic and onions.
- Step 3: Add onions to your hot skillet and cook until tender, or around eight minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute or two.
- Step 4: Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool completely to room temperature.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer to whip the butter until it's very soft, or about five minutes.
- Step 6: Add the onions, garlic and bacon into the bowl and mix until incorporated. Then, stir in your honey, chives and pepper.
- Step 7: Finally, spoon the compound butter into a small bowl and serve it with your favorite dishes, or refrigerate it until you're ready to use it.
Ready to get started? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Bacon butter explained: Answers to FAQs
Before getting started, consider the following most commonly asked questions about making a compound butter with cooked bacon at home:
What are optional extras that I can add to a bacon butter recipe?
With bacon butter, there are practically limitless recipe variations to consider. Try swapping honey with maple syrup for added sweetness, or add a hint of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra smokiness. Fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley or basil also work wonders. Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations until you find the perfect bacon butter variation for your household.
What are some ways I can use bacon butter?
Here are just a few of the ways to make the most out of your homemade bacon butter:
- Spread it on warm toast, bagels, garlic bread or English muffins.
- Add a dollop on top of steamed vegetables or baked potatoes.
- Melt it over grilled steak, seafood or roasted vegetables.
- Incorporate it into pasta dishes.
- Use it as a topping for popcorn.
Can I substitute butter for bacon grease? Which is healthier?
Yes, you can substitute butter for bacon grease in most recipes, but keep in mind that this will likely change the flavor profile of your dish. Health-wise, both have pros and cons. Bacon grease, for example, has higher levels of saturated fat and cholesterol. On the other hand, regular butter contains saturated fats but also provides essential nutrients such as vitamins A, D, and E. Whichever options you choose, remember that moderation is key.
Can I use any type of bacon to make bacon butter?
The short answer is, yes — you can use any type of bacon you prefer for this recipe. You might choose thick-cut bacon, like Hatfield® Cherrywood Smoked Extra Thick Cut Bacon, to add a richer flavor and texture to your bacon butter. Or, consider a pre-marinated option based on the flavor profile you're trying to create.
How long is bacon butter good for?
Bacon butter can be saved for later — as long as you put it away properly. Simply seal any remaining spread in an airtight bag or container, and this can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for two to three months. Remember, shelf life may vary, so always check for signs of spoilage before using.
Elevate your bacon butter experience with quality ingredients
Making bacon butter at home is not only simple but also a game-changer for your household — offering versatility and flavor to enhance your favorite meals. And when it comes to cooking for your loved ones, the quality of your ingredients matters. Hatfield serves as a trusted pork provider, guaranteeing both deliciousness and food safety. With a variety of bacon options to consider, from Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon to Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon Extra Thick Cut Bacon, there's no limit to the recipe variations you can create.
Ready to get started? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
