Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter Recipe – Restaurant Style at Home

I first tasted Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter on a quick lunch out with friends. We ordered steak fajitas, and when that frothy, golden butter arrived, I couldn’t stop dipping my tortillas in it.

The flavor was smoky, a little spicy, and so creamy it made every bite better. I learned it’s a signature at Uncle Julio’s, served mostly with their chicken, steak, or shrimp fajitas.

I wanted to make it at home because the taste stuck with me—it’s rich, buttery, and full of garlic, chipotle, and fresh herbs. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up yourself.

And if you enjoy this, try Uncle Julio’s salsa & guacamole copycat recipe also.

Why You’ll Love This Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter

This butter is simple to make but full of flavor. I love that you can make it at home with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

The mix of paprika, garlic, and fresh herbs gives it a fresh and vibrant taste. It’s zesty, slightly spicy, and perfectly buttery—every bite is satisfying.

It’s also super versatile. Here are a few ways I use it:

• Spread it on warm bread for breakfast or snacks.
• Melt it over grilled corn for a smoky, rich flavor.
• Top steak or shrimp to give restaurant-quality taste at home.
• Mix it with fajita fillings for an extra creamy touch.

This Mexican butter is creamy, smooth, and easy to love. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.

Secret Behind This Mexican Butter Copycat

The magic of Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter comes from its balance of flavors. The butter base is creamy and rich. Fresh herbs like parsley and chives bring freshness.

Paprika, cayenne, and chili flakes give just the right kick. Lemon juice and zest lift everything with a citrusy punch. Finally, Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that makes each bite unforgettable.

It’s not just butter—it’s a flavor bomb. I’ve tried skipping or substituting ingredients, and the taste changes completely.

Ingredients for Mexican Butter Copycat

• 1 cup unsalted butter – I use good quality butter. Makes everything creamy and smooth.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and mild smokiness, just enough to notice.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Gives a little kick, not too spicy for everyday taste.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds subtle tang and depth to the butter.
• 2 cloves garlic, grated – Fresh garlic gives that punchy flavor I love.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens up the butter with fresh citrus aroma.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed – Balances richness with light citrus flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and color, makes it look nice too.
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped – Gives mild oniony flavor, subtle but important.
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes – Adds warmth and tiny spice, complements cayenne perfectly.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Small saucepan – For gentle melting without burning.
• Whisk – To mix butter and spices smoothly.
• Grater – For garlic and lemon zest.
• Measuring spoons – To get the perfect spice balance.
• Knife & cutting board – For chopping fresh herbs.
• Airtight container – To chill and store the butter.

How To Make Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter Like Restaurant

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Place 1 cup butter in a small saucepan over very low heat. I melt slowly to avoid browning because I want it soft and creamy, not nutty.

Step 2: Add Spices and Flavorings

Once butter is melted, stir in 1 teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon cayenne, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 grated garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Mix until fully blended and aromatic.

Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs

Add 2 tablespoons chopped parsley and 2 tablespoons chopped chives. Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon chili flakes. Stir gently so herbs mix well without losing their color.

Step 4: Whisk and Combine

Whisk everything over low heat for a few minutes. Make sure butter, spices, and herbs are completely combined. The aroma should make your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 5: Chill the Butter

Transfer butter to a small container. Refrigerate until thick and spreadable. This usually takes a couple of hours. Once chilled, it’s ready to use.

Chef’s Helpful Tips for Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter

• Always melt butter slowly to avoid browning.
• Use fresh herbs for best flavor; dried herbs don’t taste the same.
• Adjust cayenne and chili flakes if you like it more or less spicy.
• Lemon zest is key—don’t skip it.
• Whisking well makes the texture smooth and creamy.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter

• High heat – Can burn butter and ruin flavor. Keep it low.
• Skipping lemon juice/zest – Makes butter flat. Citrus adds brightness.
• Over-chopping herbs – Can make herbs mushy and bitter.
• Not whisking properly – Butter may separate, lose smooth texture.
• Using salted butter – Can make it too salty; unsalted is best.

What to Serve With This Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter

I love pairing this butter with many dishes. Here’s what I often serve it with:

• Grilled corn – I melt it over corn, and it adds sweet, spicy flavor.
• Fresh bread – Perfect on warm rolls or baguette slices, makes mornings better.
• Steak – Adds buttery, zesty finish that elevates the meat.
• Baked potatoes – I scoop a dollop on top, makes potatoes so rich and flavorful.
• Shrimp – Melts over cooked shrimp for a restaurant-style touch at home.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead?
I don’t recommend it because salted butter can make the final flavor too salty. Unsalted butter lets you control seasoning and balance the spices perfectly.

2. How long does this butter last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it lasts about 1–2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it up to 3 months without losing flavor.

3. Can I make it spicy?
Absolutely! Increase cayenne or chili flakes slightly. I usually add a bit more if I want a kick, but keep it balanced so flavor isn’t overwhelmed.

4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh parsley and chives give much better flavor and color. Dried herbs can taste dull and slightly bitter.

5. Can I melt it for cooking?
Yes, you can melt it over vegetables, meats, or seafood. Just don’t overheat, or butter may separate. Low heat works best.

Making Uncle Julio’s Mexican Butter at home is one of my favorite kitchen adventures. It’s simple, flavorful, and makes any dish taste special. I hope you try it and feel the joy of spreading creamy, zesty butter on your favorite meals.

Don’t forget to share your experience with us and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes. It’s amazing how a little homemade butter can make your food feel like a treat every time.