Pizza Butter: A Savory Spread That Will Revolutionize Your Bread
I remember being a kid and being utterly fascinated by the jars of garlic butter that seemed to magically appear on restaurant tables, ready to slather onto warm breadsticks. It was pure, unadulterated comfort in spreadable form. Pizza Butter takes that same concept and cranks it up to eleven. With its tangy tomato and cheesy goodness, it transforms ordinary bread into something truly special – a taste of pizza night without all the fuss. This recipe, rediscovered from my old bread-making days, has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 4 tablespoons
- Serves: 4
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 (3 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Equipment Needed
- Hand mixer or food processor
- Small bowl (if using a hand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Ensure that your butter is truly softened. It should be pliable and easily spreadable, but not melted. This will ensure a smooth and consistent final product. You can leave it at room temperature for about an hour, or gently soften it in the microwave in short bursts (about 5-10 seconds at a time), being very careful not to melt it.
- In a medium bowl (if using a hand mixer) or directly in your food processor, combine the softened butter, tomato paste, shredded mozzarella cheese, granulated sugar, and dried oregano.
- Using a hand mixer on medium speed or a food processor, blend all of the ingredients together until they are fully combined and the mixture is smooth and uniform in color. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl or food processor as needed to ensure that everything is incorporated.
- Once fully blended, the Pizza Butter is ready to use!
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Soft Butter is Key: Don’t underestimate the importance of softened butter. If it’s too cold, it will be difficult to incorporate and will result in a lumpy spread.
- Cheese Consistency: If your mozzarella is very moist, you can gently pat it dry with a paper towel before adding it to the mix. This will prevent the butter from becoming too watery.
- Sugar Balance: The small amount of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomato paste and enhance the overall flavor profile. Don’t skip it!
- Herb Power: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! A pinch of dried basil, Italian seasoning, or even some finely minced fresh garlic can add a delicious twist.
- Make it Spicy: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
- No Food Processor? No Problem!: If you don’t have a food processor, a hand mixer works perfectly well. Just be sure your butter is very soft.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Pizza Butter is incredibly versatile!
- Spread it on toasted English muffins or bagels and broil until bubbly for a quick and easy snack.
- Use it as a flavorful spread for sandwiches or wraps.
- Slather it on grilled cheese for an extra cheesy and savory twist.
- Serve it with warm crusty bread or breadsticks as an appetizer.
- Mix it into pasta for a quick and flavorful sauce.
To store:
- Refrigerator: Store the Pizza Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the Pizza Butter for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
- Reheating: If the butter becomes too firm in the refrigerator, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before spreading.
Nutritional Information
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 168 kcal | 8% |
| Total Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 42mg | 14% |
| Sodium | 358mg | 15% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 6g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugars | 4g | 8% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use vegan mozzarella cheese.
- Garlic Lover’s: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the mixture for an extra garlicky kick.
- Spicy Pizza Butter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary.
- Mediterranean Style: Add a tablespoon of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?
A: While you can use fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella works best because it incorporates more easily into the butter mixture and melts more evenly.
Q: My Pizza Butter is too thick. What can I do?
A: If the butter is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or olive oil to thin it out. Mix well until you reach the desired consistency.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this Pizza Butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q: Can I use this on pizza dough before baking?
A: Absolutely! This Pizza Butter would be delicious spread on pizza dough as a base before adding your favorite toppings.
Q: Can I grill meat or vegetables with this Pizza Butter?
A: Absolutely, the Pizza Butter can be used to baste any meat or vegetable. It will add a lot of flavor.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy this simple yet incredibly satisfying Pizza Butter recipe as much as I do. It’s a fantastic way to add a touch of pizza flavor to everyday meals. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations to create your own signature spread. I encourage you to share your feedback and any delicious creations you come up with! It pairs wonderfully with a crisp glass of Italian white wine and a side of good company. Happy cooking!