18 Delicious Clarified Butter Recipes for Every Occasion

Butter makes everything better—especially when it’s clarified. Rich, golden, and packed with flavor, clarified butter is the secret weapon your kitchen needs. Whether you’re whipping up quick weeknight dinners, indulging in cozy comfort food, or impressing guests with gourmet dishes, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering recipes to try. Ready to take your cooking to the next level? Let’s dive in!

Garlic Herb Clarified Butter Steak

This steak gets a luxurious upgrade with golden clarified butter infused with garlic and fresh herbs—simple enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 (1.5-inch-thick) ribeye or New York strip steaks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Clarify the butter: In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over low heat. Skim off the foam, then add 3 smashed garlic cloves, 2 rosemary sprigs, and 2 thyme sprigs. Simmer 5 minutes until fragrant. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve; discard solids.
2. Sear the steak: Pat steaks dry, then season evenly with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat until shimmering. Sear steaks 4 minutes per side for medium-rare (135°F internal), basting with 2 tbsp of the garlic-herb butter during the last minute.
3. Rest and serve: Transfer steaks to a plate, drizzle with remaining butter, and let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

The clarified butter stays silky and rich without burning, letting the garlic and herbs shine without bitterness. Tip: Save extra herb butter for roasted potatoes or crusty bread—it’s too good to waste!

Clarified Butter Lobster Rolls

These lobster rolls are pure indulgence—succulent lobster meat bathed in rich, nutty clarified butter and tucked into buttery toasted buns. It’s a seafood lover’s dream with minimal fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, clarified
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 4 split-top hot dog buns
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for toasting buns)
• 1 tbsp chopped chives (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over low heat, warm the clarified butter (1/2 cup) until just liquid. Add the lobster meat and gently toss to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through, then stir in the lemon juice (1 tbsp), salt (1/4 tsp), and pepper (1/4 tsp). Remove from heat.
2. Brush the insides of the hot dog buns with the melted butter (2 tbsp) and toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side until golden.
3. Spoon the warm lobster mixture into the toasted buns and garnish with chives (1 tbsp).

The magic here? Clarified butter adds depth without burning, letting the lobster’s sweetness shine. No mayo means no distractions—just pure, luxurious flavor.

Tip: For extra flair, warm the buns in the same skillet used for the lobster to soak up any leftover butter.

Clarified Butter Roasted Vegetables

These golden, caramelized veggies get a luxurious upgrade thanks to nutty clarified butter—perfect for turning simple sides into something special.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup clarified butter (ghee), melted
• 1 lb mixed sturdy vegetables (carrots, parsnips, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts), chopped into even 1-inch pieces
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss vegetables with melted clarified butter, 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes, undisturbed, until edges are deeply browned.
4. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, toss gently, and roast 5 more minutes to crisp further.

The high smoke point of clarified butter gives these veggies a crisp exterior without burning, while the thyme adds a fragrant finish. Tip: For extra richness, drizzle with a touch more melted ghee before serving.

Clarified Butter Pancakes with Maple Syrup

These pancakes are rich, golden, and impossibly tender—thanks to the magic of clarified butter, which adds nutty depth without burning in the pan.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp fine sea salt
• 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup clarified butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
• Pure maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

1. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
2. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and ¼ cup melted clarified butter until smooth. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir just until combined (small lumps are okay).
3. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. Brush lightly with clarified butter. Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake and cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook 1–2 minutes more until golden.
4. Serve warm with maple syrup.

The clarified butter gives these pancakes a crisp, lacy edge and toasty aroma—no extra oil needed! They’re perfect for slow weekend mornings when you want something indulgent but unfussy.

Tip: Clarified butter keeps for months in the fridge. Make a big batch to use for sautéing, roasting, or drizzling over popcorn.

Clarified Butter Seared Scallops

These buttery, caramelized scallops are restaurant-worthy but surprisingly simple—just a hot pan and a little patience for that perfect golden crust.

Ingredients:

• 12 large dry-packed sea scallops (about 1 lb), side muscle removed
• 3 tbsp clarified butter (ghee), divided
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Pat scallops very dry with paper towels. Season evenly with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Heat 2 tbsp clarified butter in a large stainless steel skillet over medium-high until shimmering (about 1 minute).
3. Add scallops in a single layer, leaving space between them. Sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until deeply golden. Flip and cook 1–2 minutes more until just opaque.
4. Transfer to a plate. Off heat, swirl remaining 1 tbsp clarified butter and 1 tbsp lemon juice into the pan. Drizzle over scallops and sprinkle with 1 tbsp parsley.

The magic here? Clarified butter won’t burn like regular butter, giving you a richer sear without bitter notes.

Tip: For extra crispness, press scallops lightly with a spatula for 10 seconds after flipping.

Clarified Butter Garlic Shrimp

This buttery, garlicky shrimp dish feels fancy but comes together in minutes—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup clarified butter (ghee)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Heat clarified butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
2. Increase heat to medium-high, add shrimp, and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. Remove from heat, drizzle with 1 tbsp lemon juice, and toss with 2 tbsp parsley.

The magic here? Clarified butter won’t burn like regular butter, letting the garlic shine without bitterness. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

Tip: For extra richness, add a splash of white wine to the pan after cooking the garlic.

Clarified Butter Mashed Potatoes

These ultra-creamy mashed potatoes get their velvety texture and rich, nutty flavor from clarified butter—no lumps allowed!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup clarified butter (ghee), warmed
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–18 minutes until a knife slides easily through the potatoes.
2. Drain potatoes and return them to the warm pot. Mash with a potato ricer or hand masher until smooth.
3. Gradually fold in the warmed clarified butter, then the milk, 1/4 cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Stir in 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and keep warm for up to 30 minutes (stir in a splash of extra milk if needed).

The clarified butter adds a luxurious silkiness without the water content of regular butter, so these spuds stay fluffy yet decadent.

Tip: For extra depth, brown the clarified butter lightly before adding it—just watch closely to avoid burning!

Clarified Butter Corn on the Cob

This luxe twist on classic corn on the cob lets the sweet kernels shine with the rich, nutty flavor of golden clarified butter—no milky residue, just pure indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears fresh corn, husks and silk removed
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 tsp flaky sea salt
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives

Instructions:

1. Clarify the butter: Melt ½ cup unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, skimming off white foam with a spoon. Once the milk solids sink and the liquid turns golden, strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Discard solids.
2. Cook the corn: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add corn and cook for 4 minutes until bright yellow and tender. Drain.
3. Season: Brush hot corn generously with clarified butter, then sprinkle evenly with 1 tsp flaky sea salt and ½ tsp smoked paprika. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives.

The clarified butter clings perfectly to every nook of the corn, amplifying its natural sweetness without overpowering it—ideal for backyard BBQs where you want to impress without fuss.

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of cayenne to the butter brushing step.

Clarified Butter Grilled Cheese Sandwich

This isn’t your average grilled cheese—cooking it in clarified butter gives it an irresistibly crisp, golden crust without burning.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, thinly sliced
• 2 oz Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 3 tbsp clarified butter (ghee), divided
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Spread 1/2 tbsp clarified butter on one side of each bread slice.
2. Layer cheddar and Gruyère between two slices (buttered sides out). Sprinkle garlic powder and smoked paprika evenly over the cheese.
3. Melt 1 tbsp clarified butter in the skillet. Add the sandwich and cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is deep golden. Press lightly with a spatula.
4. Add remaining 1/2 tbsp butter to the skillet, flip the sandwich, and cook another 3–4 minutes until the cheese melts and the second side is crisp.
5. Transfer to a cutting board, let rest for 1 minute, then slice diagonally.

The clarified butter’s high smoke point means no bitter burnt spots—just even crunch and nutty richness in every bite.

Tip: For extra tang, swipe a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bread before adding the cheese.

Clarified Butter Fried Eggs

These eggs are all about luxury—silky, rich, and cooked to golden-edged perfection with the magic of clarified butter.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp clarified butter (ghee)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add 2 tbsp clarified butter and let it melt until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Crack the eggs directly into the skillet. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes, letting the whites set and the edges turn lacy and golden.
3. Sprinkle each egg with 1/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. For sunny-side-up eggs, cover the skillet and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the whites are fully set but yolks remain runny. For firmer yolks, flip and cook for 30 seconds more.

The clarified butter gives these eggs a nutty depth and crisp, delicate edges—no sticking, no burning, just pure indulgence.

Tip: For extra flavor, baste the eggs with the hot butter using a spoon as they cook.

Clarified Butter Banana Bread

This ultra-moist banana bread gets a rich, nutty upgrade from clarified butter, giving it a depth of flavor that’ll make it your new go-to recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup clarified butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. Whisk together 1 ¾ cups flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, beat ¾ cup brown sugar and ½ cup clarified butter until creamy. Add 2 eggs one at a time, then mix in 1 tsp vanilla and mashed bananas.
4. Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Stir in ½ cup walnuts (if using).
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack using the parchment overhang.

The clarified butter adds a toasty, caramel-like richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet bananas—no mixer required for this fuss-free batter!

Tip: For extra flavor, brown the clarified butter lightly before using (just don’t let it burn!).

Clarified Butter Popcorn with Sea Salt

Forget movie theater popcorn—this homemade version, drizzled with golden clarified butter and flaky sea salt, is the ultimate upgrade.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus extra for finishing
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like grapeseed or sunflower)

Instructions:

1. Clarify the butter: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the milk solids separate and sink. Skim off any foam, then carefully pour the clear golden liquid (clarified butter) into a bowl, leaving solids behind.
2. Pop the corn: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the popcorn kernels, cover, and shake occasionally until popping slows to 2–3 seconds between pops (about 3–4 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. Toss & season: Drizzle the clarified butter evenly over the popcorn, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and toss gently to coat. Finish with an extra pinch of flaky salt.

The magic here? Clarified butter adds rich, nutty flavor without sogginess—every kernel stays crisp.

Tip: For extra depth, add a sprinkle of smoked salt or a dusting of nutritional yeast with the sea salt.

Clarified Butter Roasted Chicken

This Clarified Butter Roasted Chicken is a game-changer—golden, crispy skin with impossibly juicy meat, thanks to the magic of slow-basted butter.

• 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs), patted dry
• 1/2 cup clarified butter (ghee), melted
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 lemon, halved

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Place chicken breast-side up in a cast-iron skillet or roasting pan.
2. In a small bowl, mix 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Rub seasoning all over the chicken, including under the skin.
3. Pour 1/2 cup melted clarified butter over the chicken, coating evenly. Stuff cavity with lemon halves.
4. Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes, basting with pan drippings every 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is deep golden-brown.
5. Rest for 10 minutes before carving.

The clarified butter’s high smoke point gives the skin an extra-crisp finish while keeping the meat tender—no flipping or fussing required.

Tip: Save the lemony pan drippings to drizzle over roasted veggies or mashed potatoes!

Clarified Butter Glazed Carrots

These carrots are a game-changer—silky, sweet, and glossy with a rich depth from clarified butter that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 3 tbsp clarified butter (ghee)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp clarified butter. Add the carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Add 2 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 cup water. Stir to coat the carrots evenly.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the carrots are tender and the liquid reduces to a glossy glaze.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped parsley before serving.

The magic here? Clarified butter adds a nutty richness without burning, while the honey glaze clings perfectly for a shiny, restaurant-worthy finish.

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of cinnamon or cumin with the salt and pepper.

Clarified Butter Garlic Naan

This buttery, garlicky naan is restaurant-quality but so simple to make at home—your stovetop does all the work!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp melted clarified butter (ghee), plus 2 tbsp more for brushing
• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp yeast, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 3/4 tsp salt. Stir in warm milk, yogurt, and 2 tbsp melted ghee until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour (it should double).
3. Divide dough into 6 balls. Roll each into a 1/4-inch-thick oval on a floured surface.
4. Heat a dry cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Cook each naan for 2 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until puffed and charred in spots.
5. Mix remaining 2 tbsp ghee with minced garlic. Brush warm naan generously with garlic butter and sprinkle with cilantro.

The double hit of ghee—in the dough and brushed on top—gives this naan an irresistible richness, while the skillet char adds authentic texture.

Tip: For extra fluffiness, let the rolled dough rest 5 minutes before cooking.

Clarified Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies get their rich, toasty depth from clarified butter—giving classic chocolate chip cookies a grown-up twist with an extra-nutty aroma.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, clarified and cooled
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup clarified butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup brown sugar until fluffy. Add 2 eggs and 1 tsp vanilla; mix until smooth.
3. Whisk together flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt in a separate bowl. Gradually stir into the butter mixture until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
4. Drop 2-tbsp scoops of dough onto sheets, spacing 2″ apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers look slightly soft.
5. Cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

The clarified butter eliminates water content, so these cookies stay chewy for days with caramelized edges and pockets of molten chocolate.

Tip: For extra flavor, brown the butter slightly after clarifying—just don’t let the milk solids burn!

Clarified Butter Sauteed Mushrooms

These mushrooms are rich, nutty, and luxuriously tender—thanks to the magic of clarified butter, which lets them crisp up without burning.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and halved (or quartered if large)
• 3 tbsp clarified butter (ghee)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 tbsp clarified butter and let it melt until shimmering.
2. Add the mushrooms in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until deeply golden on one side.
3. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Sauté for 2–3 more minutes until the mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from heat and toss with 1 tbsp fresh thyme and 1 tsp lemon juice.

The high smoke point of clarified butter gives these mushrooms a perfect sear, while the lemon and thyme brighten every earthy bite. Tip: For extra depth, splash in a tablespoon of dry white wine with the garlic.

Clarified Butter Cinnamon Rolls

These cinnamon rolls get their rich, nutty depth from clarified butter—no more soggy bottoms, just layers of tender dough and gooey cinnamon filling.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
• ½ cup clarified butter, melted and cooled, divided
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Whisk together 2 ½ cups flour, granulated sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Stir in warm milk, ¼ cup clarified butter, and egg until a shaggy dough forms. Knead in remaining 1 cup flour for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
2. Roll dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Brush with 2 tbsp clarified butter, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon. Tightly roll into a log and slice into 12 rolls. Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and rise 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 20–22 minutes until golden. Cool 10 minutes.
4. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and remaining 2 tbsp clarified butter until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

The clarified butter ensures every layer stays distinct—no doughy gaps, just caramelized edges and a toasty aroma.

Tip: For extra fluffiness, let the dough rise overnight in the fridge and bake in the morning.

Conclusion

With 18 mouthwatering ways to use clarified butter, this roundup has something for every occasion—whether you’re baking, sautéing, or simply indulging. We hope these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen! Don’t forget to share your favorites in the comments and pin this article for later. Happy cooking!