Homemade Sauce Recipes - Over The Fire Cooking https://overthefirecooking.com/category/recipes/course/sauces/ Fun and creative open fire and campfire recipes & tutorials. Fri, 07 Nov 2025 20:46:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://overthefirecooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/cropped-cropped-cropped-cropped-OTFC_Squarelogo_Black-937x1024-1-4-32x32.png Homemade Sauce Recipes - Over The Fire Cooking https://overthefirecooking.com/category/recipes/course/sauces/ 32 32 Cheeseburger Fondue https://overthefirecooking.com/cheeseburger-fondue/ https://overthefirecooking.com/cheeseburger-fondue/#respond Wed, 29 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=38485 The Cheeseburger Fondue Recipe is comfort food at its best. Beefy, cheesy, classic.

This Cheeseburger Fondue takes the best parts of a cheeseburger and flips the script. Inspired by a famous Japanese dish,…

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The Cheeseburger Fondue Recipe is comfort food at its best. Beefy, cheesy, classic.

This Cheeseburger Fondue takes the best parts of a cheeseburger and flips the script. Inspired by a famous Japanese dish, the burger patty hits a skillet full of sizzling hot, melty cheese. It’s smoky, gooey, and absolutely wild in the best way possible.

The Cheeseburger Fondue Recipe is comfort food at its best. Beefy, cheesy, instant classic.

You get all that seared beef flavor, molten cheese, and then a dreamy sauce that pulls everything together. Add some fries on the side if you dare, but fair warning: you might not be able to stop dipping into that cheeseburger fondue sauce.

Sponsored by Cowboy Charcoal

This one’s powered by Cowboy Charcoal, because nothing beats that steady, even heat for building deep, smoky flavor. Whether you’re grilling for game day, a backyard hang, or just a chill Friday night, this cheeseburger fondue is pure fire comfort food.

Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Fondue

This isn’t your average burger. We’re talkin’ smashed ground beef patties stacked high, onions caramelizing in the skillet, and then a hit of flame-kissed smoke from Cowboy Charcoal that makes every bite of this cheeseburger fondue dish unforgettable.

A close up of the cheesy burger, a mouthwateringly delicious bite.

Then comes the magic: the cheeseburger fondue. A mix of cheddar cheese, jack cheese, a little mustard, and just enough heat to bring everything together. It’s smooth, creamy, and built to cling to your burger just right. The combination works because its comfort food meets cookout energy: messy, rich, and made to share.

If cheesy burgers are on your mind, then make sure to check out my Best Smash Burger Recipes and The Best Big Burger Recipes.

Ingredients Round-Up

Like any good recipe, the cheeseburger fondue is all about keeping it simple. Just a few solid ingredients that come together to make something unforgettable.

  • Beef — Ground beef or ground chuck, sliced onions, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning.
  • Burgers — American cheese, mayonnaise, and toasted burger buns.
  • Cheese Sauce — Unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, whole milk, shredded jack cheese, dijon mustard, cayenne powder, and kosher salt to taste.

How to Make Cheeseburger Fondue

Now, let’s make the cheeseburger fondue. We’ll start by firing up the grill to medium heat using Cowboy Charcoal. Set up for direct cooking—you want that steady, even flame.

Making the Cheese Fondue

Drop a skillet on the grates and toss in the butter, flour, and cayenne powder. Let it melt and mix for about 2–3 minutes over medium-low heat until smooth. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring until the sauce starts to thicken. Add the dijon mustard and keep whisking until it all comes together. Finally, fold in the shredded jack cheese and stir until it’s fully melted and creamy. This step is the foundation of a good cheeseburger fondue.

Making the rue so that we can turn it into melty cheese.

We’re looking for that smooth, loose ribbon consistency. It shouldn’t be too thick or thin. Keep the sauce warm on the lowest temp or a slow simmer while you fire up the burgers.

The fondue for the cheeseburgers is bubbling and ready to go.

Grilling the Burgers

Now crank the grill to medium-high heat. Drop your cast iron skillet or plancha right over the coals and let it preheat until it’s just starting to smoke.

Grab your chilled burger balls and toss them onto the skillet. Let one side cook for a second, then flip them before smashing. This little bit of cooked beef will prevent the burger from sticking to your spatula when you smash the patty.

Smashing and seasoning the burgers on the cast iron grill, with onions.

Now, smash press them onto the skillet with onions on top, and smash hard. That’s where the crust happens. You’ll hear the sizzle—music to your ears. Let them go until the bottom is deep golden brown, then flip. Add cheese to melt over the top of the burger, and let it cook just long enough to hit perfection.

Once they’re done, pull them off, and then let rest for a minute on a paper towel. Next, build your burger: bun, mayo, patty, cheese, and then that top bun for the win.

The burgers are flipped on the grill and layered with American cheese - a classic.

Cheesburger Fondue, Final Assembly

Here’s where it gets fun. Pour your hot fondue into a skillet or small saucepan, then dip that burger sliced side down into the sauce. It should sizzle. That molten cheese hugs the beef and soaks into every bite.

The sliced burgers are placed in the skilled to complete the perfect Cheeseburger Fondue recipe.

Now, all that’s left to do is dig in and enjoy the cheeseburger fondue with your hungry, thankful crew. Fire, flavor, and good company. Does it ever get any better than that? Cheers!

Pro Tip: Which Cowboy Charcoal is best?

When you want serious heat, clean burn, and real wood flavor, go with Cowboy Hardwood Lump Charcoal. It burns hotter and faster, which is exactly what you want for smashing burger patties, melting cheese, and getting that perfect sear with a little smoky flavor.

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Fondue

Cheeseburger fondue is a classic that calls for the burger side classics, such as French fries, sweet potato fries, and tater tots. You get the idea! You can even serve this as part of a shareable spread with other cheesy menu items like Nacho Wings.

And that cheeseburger fondue sauce? Don’t stop at burgers. Use it on steak bites, burger patties, or as a dip for anything from pretzels to leftover buns. It’s the kind of thing that makes everyone crowd around the skillet.

More Cheesy Goodness

Leftovers & Reheating Instructions

If you somehow have leftover cheeseburger fondue, store everything separately in small bowls or airtight containers. The sauce can be reheated gently over low temperature in a small saucepan or skillet. Then, add a splash of milk or beef broth and stir until it’s smooth again.

Warm the burgers in a skillet for a few minutes to bring them back to life. Just don’t overdo it, because they’ll dry out. Never microwave the fondue, because it breaks the sauce. Keep it low, keep it slow, and you’ll be back in business.

FAQs for Cheeseburger Fondue

What kind of beef works best?

Go for ground chuck or ground beef that’s around 80/20 or 90/10. You need some fat for that sizzle and crust, because it’s what makes the flavor pop.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. Cheddar cheese or a mix of jack and cheddar works great. Just stick to cheese that melts smoothly, never crumbly.

How do I keep my Cheeeseburger fondue smooth?

For the cheeseburger fondue, it’s best to melt at low temperature and add cheese slowly. Whisk constantly until the sauce forms a smooth loose ribbon consistency. If it thickens too much, add milk or dry white wine to loosen it up.

Get stoked for life

This sauce is FYR!

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Born from a deep passion for food and flavor. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or live fire cooking around the world, we have what you need to transform every meal into an adventure.

The Cheeseburger Fondue Recipe is comfort food at its best. Beefy, cheesy, classic.
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Cheeseburger Fondue

This incredible Cheeseburger Fondue recipe is a riff on a famous Japanese dish that's served on a sizzling hot skillet topped with cheese and dunked in the sauce. Add some fries to the side if you dare!
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American, Japanese
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 1025kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

Beef:

  • 2 lbs of Ground Beef 90/10
  • 2 cups Thinly Sliced Onions
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tbsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder

Burger:

  • 8-10 American Cheese Slices
  • ½ cup Mayonnaise

Burger Buns

  • Cheese Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 2 tbsp All Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup Whole Milk
  • 1 cup Shredded Jack Cheese
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tsp Cayenne Powder
  • Kosher Salt to taste

Instructions

Cheese Sauce:

  • Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350F) for direct cooking using Cowboy Charcoal.
  • Add a skillet to the grill. Add your butter, flour and cayenne powder to the skillet to melt and mix for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add in the milk to thicken the sauce.
  • Once mixed, add your mustard. Finally, add your shredded cheese and keep stirring until fully integrated and smooth. Thin out the sauce with more milk at the end. Once the sauce is done (about 10 minutes), pull it off and keep warm.

Burgers:

  • Preheat your grill to high heat (around 400F) for direct cooking using Cowboy Charcoal.
  • Grab a handful of ground beef (around 1/4 lbs… ish) and gently roll it into a ball. Repeat this for 6-8 balls or until you’re out of meat. Place them in the fridge until ready to cook.
  • Add a cast iron skillet or plancha over the flames to preheat until it's slightly smoking. Add a burger ball to the skillet topping with a handful of thinly sliced onions.. Place a piece of parchment over the top and then firmly press with the spatula until the burger is “smashed” on the skillet.
  • Next, season the patty with salt pepper and garlic. Let cook for another 1-2 minutes. Carefully flip the burger patty over and then season the new side with salt, pepper and garlic. Top with a slice of cheese and let melt for 1-2 minutes. Once melted, pull off and rest. Repeat for the rest of your patties.
  • Build your burger with the toasted bun, mayonnaise and 1-2 burger patties. Top with mayonnaise and the top bun then slice in half.
  • Add to a ripping hot skillet your cheese sauce and the burger sliced side down into the sauce. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Pro Tip: Which Cowboy Charcoal Makes a Difference
When you want serious heat, clean burn, and real wood flavor, go with Cowboy Hardwood Lump Charcoal. It burns hotter and faster, which is exactly what you want for smashing burger patties, melting cheese, and getting that perfect sear with a little smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 1025kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 83g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 14g | Monounsaturated Fat: 29g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 222mg | Sodium: 2299mg | Potassium: 912mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 748IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 374mg | Iron: 5mg

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https://overthefirecooking.com/cheeseburger-fondue/feed/ 0 Cheeseburger Fondue_Cover Image Close Up of Cheesy Burger Making the Rue for the Cheese Cheese Pull from Skillet Smashing and Seasoning Burgers Flipping Smash Burger and Stacking Sliced Burgers Placed on the Skillet Skillet Choriqueso Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Cheese Fatty Buffalo Chicken Wings with Melted Cheese five chorizo covered buns topped with tomato chimichurri Cheesy Irish Tater Tots are perfect for sharing! large platter on a table in front of a grill filled with cheesy patty melt sandwiches, fries, and ketchup FYR banner post (3) The Cheeseburger Fondue Recipe is comfort food at its best. Beefy, cheesy, classic.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers https://overthefirecooking.com/teriyaki-chicken-skewers/ https://overthefirecooking.com/teriyaki-chicken-skewers/#respond Mon, 22 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=38094 A plate of teriyaki chicken skewers garnished with scallions and sesame seeds over a plate of white rice

These teriyaki chicken skewers are my next frontier in skewer deliciousness. I’ve used this method — inspired by Turkish dishes…

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A plate of teriyaki chicken skewers garnished with scallions and sesame seeds over a plate of white rice

These teriyaki chicken skewers are my next frontier in skewer deliciousness. I’ve used this method — inspired by Turkish dishes and Salvador Mazzocchi — with steak and bacongarlic Parmesan chickenpizza steak and French onion steak; so I knew these teriyaki chicken kabobs were going to be a freakin’ delicious winner. The layering approach, paired with a sweet and spicy teriyaki marinade and bacon, packs a serious flavor punch!

A plate of teriyaki chicken skewers garnished with scallions and sesame seeds over a plate of white rice

Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

We all know that teriyaki chicken is a great go-to easy meal. You’re starting with juicy chicken, a crowd pleaser for even the pickiest eaters. Add in all the salty, sweet and spicy flavors from the teriyaki sauce? No question you’re going to have everyone at the table raising their hands for these chicken teriyaki skewers.

Topping it off with a bacon layer creates an umami flavor bomb that is just unbelievable. I’m betting these grilled chicken skewers will be on regular rotation for an easy weeknight dinner at your house.

Dipping a forkful of chicken in the teriyaki sauce

Don’t Forget to Freeze!

The key to success with these grilled chicken skewers is freezing the meat before you slice it. Don’t skip this step! The time in the freezer makes it easier to slice the meat, plus it stays together better on the grill. Otherwise, everything will be flopping around and will fall apart — not much fun and a skewer recipe’s worst nightmare! The chicken spends at least four hours in the marinade and another hour (at least, ideally you want four hours) in the freezer. So, while it’s an easy recipe, you do need to plan ahead. The grilling portion goes really fast!

Looking for more of my favorite chicken recipes? Check out The Best Chicken Leg Recipes, Best Chicken Lollipop Recipes, and Best Chicken Wing Recipes

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Ingredients

  • Skewers: We’re using boneless skinless chicken thighs, which are the perfect cut for these easy teriyaki chicken skewers. You’ll also want slices of bacon, Spiceology’s Salt Pepper Garlic Seasoning, sesame seeds and scallions.
  • Marinade: ​For our teriyaki marinade, grab some soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic and sesame oil. 
  • Teriyaki Sauce: We’ll top off this delicious recipe with a homemade teriyaki sauce. Soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, red chili flakes, grated ginger, cornstarch and kosher salt are what you need here.

​Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

I know Hawaiian macaroni salad might not immediately come to mind when you think of chicken skewers, but hear me out! This salad pairs perfectly with the delicious teriyaki flavor from the chicken skewers. You’ll need 1 pound elbow macaroni, 2 cups mayonnaise, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 cup finely diced celery, 1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion and 2 large carrots, finely grated.

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and toss with the apple cider vinegar. In a large bowl, mix together your mayo, sugar, salt and spices. Then, toss in the pasta, along with your vegetables. Mix well, season to taste with salt and black pepper, then refrigerate for at least two hours.

Enjoy with your favorite Hawaiian or Asian barbecue meals! I bet this macaroni salad would be freakin’ delicious with my Hawaiian chicken skewersHuli-Huli ribs or any recipe that calls for Tiki Tiki Sauce.

Get stoked for life

TROPICAL HEAT MEETS BBQ SWEET

NO HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP. ALL FLAVOR.

  • SWEET HEAT
  • PINEAPPLE & GINGER
  • SMALL BATCH

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

First up, let’s make the teriyaki sauce. Add all the ingredients – water, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, red chili flakes, grated ginger, cornstarch slurry (¼ cup water + 3 teaspoons corn starch mixed) and kosher salt to taste – to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. When the mixture has thickened, pull off and let cool.

Pouring soy sauce, brown sugar, red chili flakes and cornstarch slurry into a pan

Prepping the Chicken

Next is our marinade. Mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic cloves and sesame oil in a bowl. Add boneless skinless chicken thighs to a food safe bowl or bag, then top with the marinade. Place in the fridge to marinade for 4-12 hours.

When the chicken has had enough time to marinate, remove from the marinade and discard the excess. Then, pound the chicken thighs until about ⅛” thick.

Assembling boneless chicken thighs and slices of bacon into a layers on a parchment paper lined baking sheet

Create a base layer of chicken pieces about 2.5 feet long and 1 foot wide. Then, add a layer of bacon slices — you’ll need about a pound total — over the chicken with more chicken over the top. Wrap in foil and place on a tray into the freezer for at least 1 hour but ideally 4 hours.

Grilling the Chicken Skewers

Using a sharp knife to slice the boneless skinless chicken thighs and bacon into 2x2 inch cubes and threading the meat onto metal skewers

Now it’s time to cook! Preheat your fire to medium heat (about 325 degrees Fahrenheit). Remove the meat from the freezer and slice into 2×2 inch cubes and skewer onto small skewers. Season the outside with the salt, pepper, garlic seasoning.

Add the skewers to the grill grates to cook slowly to render the fat and cook the bacon.

Seasoning threaded chicken skewers with Salt Pepper Garlic Seasoning and placing the seasoned skewers on the grill

Cook for about 15-20 minutes total or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Be sure to baste with the teriyaki sauce throughout!

When they’ve reached temp, remove from heat and let rest. Serve with remaining teriyaki sauce, sesame seeds and scallions and enjoy!

Teriyaki sauce simmering in a pot on the grill, with a spoon showing the texture of the sauce, and a hand using a grill brush to baste the grilled chicken skewers with the sauce

What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for other sides besides the Hawaiian macaroni salad, a pot of white rice and grilled veggies (like green pepper, zucchini, fresh pineapple chunks, red onion or corn) would be great options. You could also serve with a simple green salad, roasted broccoli or lo mein noodles. 

Holding up a finished teriyaki chicken skewer with the fire in the background and pouring extra teriyaki sauce over the skewers and rice

Leftovers and Reheating

Wrap and store any leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container for 3-5 days. When you want to reheat, wrap the skewers in aluminum foil and place them back on the grill for a few minutes, or heat them in a large skillet. You can add a little liquid to the aluminum foil boat to keep the meat tender.

For More Teriyaki

FAQs

Can I use boneless skinless chicken breasts in this recipe? 

Definitely! They won’t have as much fat as the chicken thighs, but the bacon should help make up for that. Just keep an eye on the cooking time so it doesn’t dry out. 

Metal skewers, wooden skewers or bamboo skewers? 

Metal skewers for me! Here’s why: you can reuse them, and having a flat surface makes the food more stable so it doesn’t rotate or slide while you’re grilling. 

If you do use wooden skewers or bamboo skewers, make sure they have a smooth finish so they’re less likely to splinter. Soaking them in water helps with splintering and charring too. 

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce for these grilled chicken skewers? 

If you’re in a pinch, sure! The delicious homemade teriyaki sauce comes together quickly, though, and gets rave reviews at my house. You can always pull it together when the chicken is marinating or in the freezer. There’s plenty of time to prep during those windows.

Get The Cookbooks!

Flavor X Fire & FOOD X Fire

By Derek Wolf

All the major tastes—salty, sour, sweet, bitter, and umami—are explored in depth, along with an investigation of other components you should consider when it comes to flavor, such as aroma, heat, and texture.

A plate of teriyaki chicken skewers garnished with scallions and sesame seeds over a plate of white rice
Print

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

These teriyaki chicken skewers, paired with a sweet and spicy teriyaki marinade and bacon, pack a serious flavor punch!
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 4 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 1744kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

Skewers:

  • 4 lbs Chicken Thighs skinless & boneless
  • 1 lbs Bacon Slices
  • 1 cup Salt, Pepper, Garlic Seasoning (SPG) from Spiceology
  • Sesame Seeds garnish
  • Scallions garnish

Marinade:

  • 3 cups Soy Sauce
  • ¼ cup Brown Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar
  • 2 Minced Garlic
  • 1 tsp Sesame Seed Oil

Teriyaki Sauce:

  • 1.25 cup Water
  • 1 cup Soy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Honey
  • 1 tbsp Minced Garlic
  • 1 tsp Red Chili Flakes
  • 1 tsp Grated Ginger
  • ¼ cup Cornstarch Slurry ¼ cup water + 3 tsp Cornstarch mixed
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

Marinade:

  • In a bowl, mix together the ingredients for the marinade.
  • Add the chicken to a food safe bowl or bag and top with the marinade. Place in the fridge to marinade for 4-12 hours.

Teriyaki Sauce:

  • Add all the ingredients to a pot over medium heat, bring to a boil and let simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
  • Once thickened, pull off and let cool

Chicken:

  • Pull the chicken out and discard excess marinade.
  • Pound the chicken thighs until about ⅛” thick.
  • Add a base layer of chicken about 2.5 feet long and 1 foot wide. Then add a layer of bacon over the chicken with more chicken over the top. Cover in foil and place on a tray into the freezer for at least 1 hour but ideally 4 hours.
  • Preheat your fire to medium heat (about 325F).
  • Pull out your meat and slice into 2×2” cubes and skewer onto small skewers. Season the outside with SPG.
  • Add the skewers to the grill grates to cook slowly, we want to render the fat and cook the bacon. Cook for about 15-20 minutes total or until 165F internal and baste with the Teriyaki Sauce throughout. Then once done, pull off and let rest.
  • Serve with rice, veggies, teriyaki sauce, sesame seeds and scallions. Enjoy!

Notes

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
I know Hawaiian macaroni salad might not immediately come to mind when you think of chicken skewers, but hear me out! This salad pairs perfectly with the delicious teriyaki flavor from the chicken skewers. You’ll need 1 pound elbow macaroni, 2 cups mayonnaise, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 cup finely diced celery, 1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion and 2 large carrots, finely grated.
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and toss with the apple cider vinegar. In a large bowl, mix together your mayo, sugar, salt and spices. Then, toss in the pasta, along with your vegetables. Mix well, season to taste with salt and black pepper, then refrigerate for at least two hours. Enjoy with your favorite Hawaiian or Asian barbecue meals! I bet this macaroni salad would be freakin’ delicious with my Hawaiian chicken skewersHuli-Huli ribs or any recipe that calls for Tiki Tiki Sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 1744kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 113g | Fat: 122g | Saturated Fat: 36g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 24g | Monounsaturated Fat: 51g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 519mg | Sodium: 42372mg | Potassium: 1707mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 544IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 134mg | Iron: 10mg

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https://overthefirecooking.com/teriyaki-chicken-skewers/feed/ 0 Teriyaki Chicken Skewers_Cover Image Fork Full of Dipped Chicken FYR TIKI Making Teriyaki Sauce Assembling Chicken and Bacon Slicing and Skewering Chicken Seasoning Chicken and Placing on Grill Basting Chicken Skewers Close up of Skewers Ready to eat the Teriyaki Bourbon Flap Steak Tips teriyaki bourbon steak skewers Smoked Honey Teriyaki Ribs Sweet Pineapple Teriyaki Salmon Teriyaki Pork Belly Burnt Ends Sweet Teriyaki Sake Smoked Ribs cookbooks A plate of teriyaki chicken skewers garnished with scallions and sesame seeds over a plate of white rice
Garlic Butter Burger https://overthefirecooking.com/garlic-butter-burger/ https://overthefirecooking.com/garlic-butter-burger/#comments Fri, 06 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=36538 The toasted bread is the perfect complement to the perfectly cooked 80/20 beef, American cheese, and homemade aioli sauce.

When it comes to homemade burgers, I’ve got a lot of favorites, but this Garlic Butter Burger is one at…

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The toasted bread is the perfect complement to the perfectly cooked 80/20 beef, American cheese, and homemade aioli sauce.

When it comes to homemade burgers, I’ve got a lot of favorites, but this Garlic Butter Burger is one at the top. Inspired by the classic Steak ‘n Shake Garlic Burger, this version is totally leveled up with a creamy garlic aioli, rich compound butter, and juicy smash burgers seared to perfection over open flame on my Breeo.

The toasted bread is the perfect complement to the perfectly cooked 80/20 beef, American cheese, and homemade aioli sauce.

We’re loading garlic into every single layer—from the buttery goodness in the bun to the crisp edges of the thin patties. And trust me, the flavor doesn’t just show up—it kicks down the door and announces itself.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making the ultimate burger night at home, this one’s guaranteed to be a new go-to. It’s bold, indulgent, and packed with next-level garlic flavor in every bite.

Post sponsored by Breeo.

I’m also stoked to be using the Breeo to make this epic burger recipe. Their smokeless fire pit is built for people who want flavor, flame, and function in every meal. From searing steaks to toasting buns, the Breeo undoubtedly helps me create some of my most memorable meals outdoors.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Burgers

Let’s be honest: a garlic butter burger just makes sense. You’ve got the richness of the melted butter with garlic, the creamy tanginess of the garlic aioli, and all of it wrapped up in a seared, juicy beef patty that’s smothered in melted American cheese. Those crispy edges alone make my taste buds happy.

We’ll dip the buns in our compound garlic butter before searing, because it gives that golden, crispy, toasted outside and a tender, soft bun center. That’s where the gourmet burger magic happens.

The Garlic Butter Burger is sliced in half showing off all the juicy layers of beef, bacon, cheese, aioli, and bread.

And if you’re filming a recipe for TikTok – make this one. The sear. The cheese pull. The smashed patties sizzling on a hot pan—yeah, it’s a full-blown show.

Using the Breeo here also makes a huge difference. The live fire adds a smoky edge that you just can’t fake. If you’ve been looking for a burger that brings that steakhouse flavor into your backyard, this is it.

If you’re craving more bold burger recipes that are super easy to make on the Breeo, check out: Cowboy Butter Burgers, Choripan Burger, and the Chimichurri Burger.

Garlic Butter Burger Ingredients Round-Up

  • Burger Patty Beef — Grab some 80/20 ground beef to make sure every meat patty is juicy and flavorful. For seasonings, you can keep it simple with kosher salt, black pepper, and then garlic powder. Or, grab some of my Cowboy Butter seasoning. If you want to add another flavor twist, onion powder and a splash of Worcestershire Sauce would add even more depth.  

Get Derek’s Newest Spice Blend

  • Garlic Aioli — This easy homemade burger sauce blends mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. 
  • Garlic Herb Butter — Melted unsalted butter is mixed in a small bowl with minced garlic and chopped parsley. 
  • Burger Build — All that you need now is some burger buns and some American cheese for the top of each burger. I went with a Texas Toast style bread and it was freakin’ delicious. 

It’s always wild how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something so unforgettable. Knowing that you make it all happen right on your backyard grill or fire pit is also the best feeling. Especially if you’re using a Breeo to get that perfect live-fire sear. Now, without further ado, let’s walk through the easy steps to garlic burger bliss.

How to Make the Garlic Butter Burger

First, start by whipping up your garlic aioli and compound butter. You’ll need two separate bowls: one for the aioli (just mayo, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper), and then one for the garlic butter (melted unsalted butter, garlic, and parsley). Keep them both covered with plastic wrap and chilled until you’re ready, because freshness is key.

Making the garlic butter and the aioli takes a little extra time before digging into the burgers, but totally worth it.

Pro-tip: double your garlic butter batch

Double your batch of garlic butter and then use it all week, because it goes great on steaks, grilled corn, potatoes, or even a thick slice of sourdough toast. Also, consider blending in some parmesan and basil, and you’ll have your own Chef Shamy Garlic Butter spin ready to go on everything.

Breeo Time

Preheat your Breeo or grill to medium-high heat (around 400F) for direct cooking. Grab your ground beef and form it into loose balls—about ¼ lb each. You should get 6–8, depending on how big you go. Next, toss them into the fridge, because firm is best.

Set a cast iron skillet, plancha, or griddle over the open fire until it’s hot and just starting to smoke. Then, add one burger ball at a time, press it flat using a burger press or spatula with a piece of parchment paper between the tool and the meat. This helps you get that signature classic smash burger crust.

The burgers are seasoned with my spice rub and smashed for fast cooking and epic flavor.

Now hit it with your burger seasonings—a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and then some garlic powder on each side. Alternatively, you can make seasoning easy with my Cowboy Butter Rub!

After about 1-2 minutes, flip it, season the other side, and immediately top with the American cheese. Let it melt for another 1-2 minutes, then pull it off and let it rest.

Derek is a master of the Breeo smokeless fire pit. Here he is wearing safety gloves, making burgers, adding slices of American cheese on 80/20 beef.

Next, throw your bacon on and cook until crispy, then dip your burger buns (brioche buns or Texas Toast style) into the garlic butter—yes, bottoms and tops—and toast them in the skillet or over the fire until they’re perfectly golden brown.

The melty American cheese over the burgers is giving the classic burger taste everyone loves with that twist of garlic butter to make it even better.

Time to build: Start with your bottom bun, spread on the garlic aioli, add one or two burger patties, some bacon, a bit more aioli, and top with your top bun, garlic-butter-side up. That’s it. Juicy burger magic.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Burgers

You really don’t need much to round out this burger—it’s already stacked with flavor. But if you want to go full-on diner mode, a side of French fries or crispy onion rings is a no-brainer. A cold beer or a classic root beer float just seals the deal.

The perfect Garlic Butter Burger is a decadent treat any day of the week, lunch or dinner.

And for the extreme garlic lovers out there? Serve it with roasted garlic cloves on the side for a buttery, spreadable add-on. This is also a killer burger to pair with fire-grilled veggies or even some smoky mac and cheese. Think comfort food, dialed all the way in.

Leftovers & Reheating Instructions

If you somehow end up with leftovers, store your burger patties and buns separately in an airtight container. The garlic aioli can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days, and the garlic butter? That stuff keeps beautifully—use it on steak, toast, or grilled corn.

To reheat, place your burger meat back in a skillet over medium heat and cover it loosely to help retain moisture. Toast the buns fresh with more softened butter or leftover garlic butter for that same-day crisp.

Avoid microwaving the full burger assembled—it’ll ruin the texture of your soft bun and overcook the meat. Trust me, a hot pan is your best friend here.

More Smash Burger Deliciousness

FAQs for Garlic Butter Burger

Can I use leaner ground beef?

You can, but I wouldn’t. The 80/20 gives you that ideal fat content for juicy burgers. If you go lean, be extra careful not to overcook it past the safe internal temperature.

Can I substitute the American cheese?

Yes! While American cheese melts perfectly for that classic diner effect, you can use cheddar cheese or even provolone if you want to switch it up.

How do I store the garlic butter?

Keep your compound butter in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll last up to 1 week, or longer if you roll it in parchment and freeze it.

Get stoked for life

HONEY INFUSED. FLAME PERFECTED.

NO HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP. PURE HONEY GOODNESS.

  • HONEY SWEETENED
  • CAYENNE KICK
  • SMALL BATCH
The toasted bread is the perfect complement to the perfectly cooked 80/20 beef, American cheese, and homemade aioli sauce.
Print

Garlic Butter Burger

Garlic lovers, fire up your Breeo, because this Garlic Butter Burger recipe inspired by Steak and Shake is the ultimate bite.
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 people
Calories 1596kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

Beef:

  • 2 lbs of Ground Beef 80/20
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tbsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder

Garlic Aioli:

  • 1 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Minced Garlic
  • 1 tsp Lemon Juice
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Garlic Butter:

  • 1.5 cup Unsalted Butter melted
  • 2 tbsp Minced Garlic
  • 1.5 tbsp Chopped Parsley

Burger:

  • 8-10 American Cheese Slices
  • Burger Buns

Instructions

  • In two separate bowls, mix together all the ingredients for the Garlic Aioli and Garlic Butter.
  • Preheat your grill to high heat (around 400F) for direct cooking.
  • Grab a handful of ground beef (around 1/4 lbs… ish) and gently roll it into a ball. Repeat this for 6-8 balls or until you’re out of meat. Place them in the fridge until ready to cook.
  • Add a cast iron skillet or plancha over the flames to preheat until it's slightly smoking.
  • Add a burger ball to the skillet. Place a piece of parchment over the top and then firmly press with the spatula until the burger is “smashed” on the skillet.
  • Next, season the patty with salt pepper and garlic. Let cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  • Carefully flip the burger patty over and then season the new side with salt, pepper and garlic. Top with a slice of cheese and let melt for 1-2 minutes. Once melted, pull off and rest. Repeat for the rest of your patties.
  • Finally, add your bacon to the skillet and cook to your desired crispiness.
  • Dip the inside of the burger buns into the garlic butter and toast over the fire. Then, build your burger with the bun upside down, garlic aioli, 1-2 burger patties, bacon and more aioli.
  • Add the burgers to the skillet and toast the buns. Once golden brown, serve and enjoy!

Notes

Pro-Tip: Double the Garlic Butter Batch
Double your batch of garlic butter and use it all week—on steaks, grilled corn, potatoes, or even a thick slice of sourdough toast. Blend in some parmesan and basil, and you’ll have your own Chef Shamy Garlic Butter spin ready to go on everything.

Nutrition

Calories: 1596kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 42g | Fat: 157g | Saturated Fat: 68g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 29g | Monounsaturated Fat: 47g | Trans Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 370mg | Sodium: 2277mg | Potassium: 723mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2319IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 5mg

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https://overthefirecooking.com/garlic-butter-burger/feed/ 1 Garlic Butter Burger_Cover Image Sliced Burger Cowboy Butter Banner Sauces for Burger Smashing and Seasoning Patties Adding Cheese and Garlic Butter Assembling Burger Burger Dipped in Butter Three Steakhouse Smash Burger lined up and ready to serve. cheesy onion smash burgers A Jalapeño Popper Smash Burger being held by the fire. Peanut Butter and Jelly Smash Burgers plated so that they can be served. Chili Cheese Smash Burgers plated and ready to eat. Animal Style Burgers assembled and served. HNY FYR The toasted bread is the perfect complement to the perfectly cooked 80/20 beef, American cheese, and homemade aioli sauce.
Salsa Macha https://overthefirecooking.com/salsa-macha/ https://overthefirecooking.com/salsa-macha/#respond Fri, 02 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=35429 The Salsa Macha is perfect drizzled on steak, eggs, or even avocado toast.

Let’s be real—sometimes the best part of a meal isn’t the main dish itself… it’s what you drizzle on top.…

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The Salsa Macha is perfect drizzled on steak, eggs, or even avocado toast.

Let’s be real—sometimes the best part of a meal isn’t the main dish itself… it’s what you drizzle on top. And that’s exactly where Salsa Macha steps in. This bold, smoky, nutty salsa is a staple in Mexican cooking, and once you make it at home, you’ll wonder how your grill sessions ever went without it.

Made with a blend of dried chiles, toasted garlic cloves, peanuts, and sesame seeds all simmered in hot oil, it’s like Mexico’s answer to Asian chili crisp—but with more attitude.

The Salsa Macha is perfect drizzled on steak, eggs, or even avocado toast.

In this recipe, we’re layering it over steak and eggs with crispy golden potatoes for a flavor-packed skillet that’s perfect for Cinco de Mayo, brunch with a kick, or any weekend where you want to cook something a little different. At the same time, make no mistake—this post is all about the Salsa Macha. The rest? Just an excuse to spoon more of it onto your plate.

This whole meal is cooked over one of my favorite grills, the Breeo Y Series. This smoke-less fire pit is so many things all wrapped into one. A fire-pit turned grill, thanks to The Outpost attachment, means that cooking this meal is easy and enjoying it by the fire is even easier!

Post Sponsored by Breeo.

Why You’ll Love Salsa Macha

Salsa Macha isn’t your typical tomato-based salsa—this one’s built on flavor, texture, and heat. First, you get crunchy bits of garlic, nutty richness from toasted seeds and raw peanuts, and a smoky backbone from a blend of guajillo chiles and chile de árbol. Then, it’s all soaked in a rich chile oil that’s just as good drizzled over tacos as it is spooned onto avocado toast or roasted sweet potatoes.

Derek Wolf sits down to enjoy the breakfast skillet with salsa macha, the main star of this show.

Even better, this version leans into that signature sweet heat, with a touch of sugar and apple cider vinegar to balance the spice. And the best part? You control the spice level. Want it fiery? Toss in more arbol chiles. Prefer a gentler burn? Cut it back and let the oil do its thing.

Not only is it versatile, but it also stores beautifully. Just keep a small jar in the fridge, and you’ve got instant flavor ready to go for whatever you’re cooking next.

If you’re looking for more reasons to drizzle that Salsa Macha on everything, check out my Best Breakfast Skillets—made for that kind of heat. Honestly, I could even see it leveling up one of my Best Salmon Recipes. The sweet heat and smoky crunch? Game changer.

Ingredients Round-Up

Let’s break it down into two parts: the Salsa Macha, and then the Steak & Eggs skillet that makes it shine.

  • Salsa – Guajillo chiles, chile de árbol, garlic cloves, peanuts, and then sesame seeds. Everything gets soaked in plenty of oil—something neutral like canola oil, grapeseed oil, or vegetable oil works best to let the smoky flavors shine. Also, we’ll finish it off with a splash of apple cider vinegar, a pinch of sugar (white or brown sugar both work), and kosher salt to taste.
The steak and eggs skillet is the perfect way to enjoy this delicious spicy salsa.
  • Steak and Eggs Breakfast Skillet – You’ll cube up your favorite steak, toss it with Cowboy Butter seasoning and hot sauce, then pair it with golden brown potatoes and a few eggs cracked right into the pan. Simple, hearty, and built to hold up to that salsa heat.

Pro Tip: How to Pick the Best Chilis

When picking dried chiles for Salsa Macha, look for ones that are pliable and slightly glossy—not brittle or dull. Fresh, high-quality chiles undoubtedly give you the best flavor, color, and texture. If they feel like they’d snap in half, they’re probably too dry and past their prime. Grab the good stuff because you’ll taste the difference in every bite.

How to Make the Salsa Macha

Heat the Oil

First, preheat your Breeo or stovetop to medium heat, around 325F. Then, add your canola oil to a cast iron skillet or medium saucepan and bring it up to 250–275F. The goal here is low heat because we want to gently infuse not fry.

The salsa is epic and starts with sizzling the ingredients in hot oil.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine your guajillo chiles, chile de árbol, garlic cloves, peanuts, and then those tasty little sesame seeds. Once the oil is hot, pour the hot oil directly into the mason jar, over the top of all your Salsa Macha ingredients.

You’ll hear a satisfying sizzle and then smell that toasty aroma almost immediately. Let it steep for a few minutes as everything softens and flavors start to bloom.

Salsa Macha is easy to make when you have the freshest ingredients and know-how.

Blend It Up

After the mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to a blender jar or use an immersion blender to pulse it into your preferred texture. Go chunky for a rustic feel or blend smooth for a more refined Mexican chili oil—totally your call.

The Salsa is mashed with an immersion blender.

Stir in your apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a big pinch of kosher salt. Give it a taste and adjust the heat level with more chiles if needed. That’s your perfect blend.

Steak & Eggs with Salsa Macha (Bonus Skillet)

Now that your homemade salsa macha is done, here’s a bold and simple way to show it off.

Start by cubing your steak and tossing it with FYR BLK Hot Sauce. Then a healthy dose of Cowboy Butter seasoning. Fire up your skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil (I actually spooned in some of my Salsa Macha for this), and sear the steak bites for about 1.5 minutes per side until perfectly browned. Set them aside.

The breakfast potatoes are cooked in the skillet until crispy perfection is achieved.

In the same pan, toss in diced golden potatoes and cook until crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—about 15 to 20 minutes. Then add the steak back in and make little wells in the potatoes for your eggs. Crack ‘em right in and cook to your liking.

The steak and eggs skillet is the perfect way to enjoy this delicious spicy salsa.

Just before you pull it off the heat, drizzle a few spoonfuls of your salsa macha right over the top and garnish with sliced scallions. It’s spicy, smoky, and insanely satisfying.

What to Serve with Salsa Macha

Honestly? Just about anything.

Serve it over grilled meats, roasted veggies, or breakfast dishes like this skillet. Spoon it over grilled shrimp, fold it into noodles, or also top off tacos and nachos. It’s also killer as a dip for tortilla chips, or spread on toast with cream cheese for something totally unexpected.

This isn’t just a spicy salsa—it’s a power move. Keep it on the table and watch it become your go-to topper for your favorite foods.

Get stoked for life

This sauce is FYR!

an all-new line created for live fire cooking

Born from a deep passion for food and flavor. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or live fire cooking around the world, we have what you need to transform every meal into an adventure.

Leftovers & Storage

Once your salsa macha has cooled, transfer it to a small jar or airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 weeks—just make sure all the solids stay fully submerged in oil to keep everything fresh and safe to eat.

You can serve it cold straight from the fridge, but for max flavor, let it come to room temperature so all those toasty, smoky layers really open up. And honestly? The flavor just keeps getting better the longer it sits.

As for the steak and eggs, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. When you’re ready to dive back in, reheat everything in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Give it another hit of salsa macha before serving—and boom, it’s just as good the next day.

More salsa

FAQs for Salsa Macha

What chiles should I use?

This version uses guajillo chiles and chile de árbol for the perfect balance of smoke and heat, but you can sub in ancho chiles, chipotle peppers, or mix in dried chipotles if you want more depth. Feel free to experiment with different versions using what you have on hand.

Is it super spicy?

It depends on how many arbol chiles you use. They’re where the real fire comes from. Start with fewer if you’re unsure—this salsa should hit the spice level sweet spot without blowing out your taste buds.

What oil is best?

Go with a neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil. Avoid strong oils like EVOO, which can overpower the umami flavor of the chiles and nuts.

Get The Cookbooks!

Flavor X Fire & FOOD X Fire

By Derek Wolf

All the major tastes—salty, sour, sweet, bitter, and umami—are explored in depth, along with an investigation of other components you should consider when it comes to flavor, such as aroma, heat, and texture.

The Salsa Macha is perfect drizzled on steak, eggs, or even avocado toast.
Print

Salsa Macha (with Steak & Eggs)

Salsa Macha is a bold, classic Mexican salsa that brings the crunch and heat—kind of like Asian chili oil, but with smoky, nutty vibes. It’s the perfect topper for eggs, avocado toast, and just about anything else. Today, we’re building a steak and eggs skillet to lay down the base… but really, it’s all about that insane salsa flavor on top.
Course Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Sauce
Cuisine American, Mexican
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 people
Calories 1320kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

Steak:

Salsa Macha:

  • 2 Guajillo Peppers
  • 8-10 Chile de Arbol Peppers
  • 3 Garlic Cloves
  • 1/4 cup Peanuts
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
  • 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tsp White Sugar
  • 2 cups Canola Oil
  • Kosher Salt to taste

Eggs:

  • 2 tbsp Salsa Macha
  • 3-4 Fresh Eggs
  • 1.5 cups Golden Potatoes diced
  • Sliced Scallions for garnish

Instructions

Salsa Macha:

  • Preheat a grill for medium heat (around 325F) for direct cooking.
  • Heat up a cast iron skillet with your canola oil and bring the oil to 250-275F. Add your garlic, chiles, peanuts and sesame seeds to a large bowl and pour the hot oil over the top.
  • Next, add this mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until chunky or smooth (your choice). Add in the rest of the ingredients for the salsa and stir together. Set to the side.

Steak, Potatoes and Eggs:

  • Slather your cubed steak in FYR BLK Hot Sauce and generously season with Cowboy Butter Rub.
  • Get your fire for direct cooking at medium high heat (around 375F). Add a cast iron skillet with oil to preheat 2 minutes before cooking.
  • Add your steak bites to the skillet and cook for 1.5 minutes per side. Once they are done, pull them off and keep warm.
  • Add the potatoes to the skillet and let cook for 15-20 minutes until they have browned and are crispy on the outside but soft on the inside. When done, add the steak back to the skillet and make 3-4 divots for the eggs.
  • Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook to your desired liking. Right before you are done, drizzle the Salsa Macha and sliced scallions over the top of the skillet and pull off to cool.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Protip: How to pick the best chilis
When picking dried chiles for Salsa Macha, look for ones that are pliable and slightly glossy—not brittle or dull. Fresh, high-quality chiles give you the best flavor, color, and texture. If they feel like they’d snap in half, they’re probably too dry and past their prime. Grab the good stuff—you’ll taste the difference in every bite.

Nutrition

Calories: 1320kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 126g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 35g | Monounsaturated Fat: 77g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 174mg | Sodium: 339mg | Potassium: 969mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1083IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 196mg | Iron: 6mg

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https://overthefirecooking.com/salsa-macha/feed/ 0 Salsa Macha_Cover Image Feasting Derek Steak and Eggs Heating Up Oil Adding Hot Oil to Salsa Mixing Salsa Cooking Steak and Potatoes Steak and Eggs FYR banner post (3) Cheesy Skewered Skirt Steak with Salsa Verde Steak tacos ready to eat Skewered Picanha with Salsa Vinaigrette three strip steak skewers topped with salsa vinaigrette over a fire Smoked Salsa Verde The finalized grill tri-tip meal. cookbooks The Salsa Macha is perfect drizzled on steak, eggs, or even avocado toast.
Homemade Ranch Dressing https://overthefirecooking.com/homemade-ranch-dressing/ https://overthefirecooking.com/homemade-ranch-dressing/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=34487 A mason jar filled with homemade ranch dressing and a spoon covered in dressing

Here’s a promise: once you make this homemade ranch dressing and realize how easy it is, you’ll want to put…

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]]>
A mason jar filled with homemade ranch dressing and a spoon covered in dressing

Here’s a promise: once you make this homemade ranch dressing and realize how easy it is, you’ll want to put it on everything. I know because that’s what happened to me! I use this dressing in tons of recipes. I’ve added it to everything from chicken and bacon (a truly, truly classic ranch combo) to steak, quesadillas, shrimp and even more chicken.

A mason jar filled with homemade ranch dressing and a spoon covered in dressing

The homemade version is so freakin’ delicious, you’ll forget all about the store-bought bottles. The simple ingredients and easy prep make this a ranch dressing recipe you won’t want to pass up. 

Why You’ll Love Homemade Ranch Dressing

Our homemade ranch dressing gets its delicious, tangy flavors from a combination of sour cream, mayonnaise and real buttermilk. This mix of ingredients also creates a fantastic creamy consistency, so this ranch recipe works as both a dressing and a ranch dip. Fresh parsley and fresh dill add complexity and, well, freshness. We’ve got a real party in a bowl here!

Adding homemade ranch dressing to a garden salad

Looking for other sauces or a new favorite condiment? Check out my recipes for Smoked Butter, Guinness BBQ Sauce and the Best Chimichurri Recipes.

Homemade Ranch Dressing Ingredients

  • Creamy Base: We’ll use tangy sour cream and mayonnaise as our main ingredients. The buttermilk is to thin out the dressing, so add it according to your desired consistency. 
  • Seasoning: I use chopped parsley and chopped dill, plus some garlic powder, kosher salt and black pepper. If you wanted, you could probably sub in fresh chives and use onion powder instead of garlic powder. This garlic flavor combo is my favorite way to make it, though, so maybe try it this way first and then experiment according to your taste buds. 
Mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, fresh parsley, fresh dill, garlic powder, Hidden Valley seasoning mix

Fun Facts About Ranch Dressing

​Things that I did not know about ranch dressing until I 1) started making it all the time and 2) came across this New York Times “Ranch Nation” article: 

  • Ranch dressing is the most popular dressing in America, with 40 percent of people saying it’s their favorite. 
  • Steve Henson, a Nebraska plumber, came up with the recipe when he was working in construction in Alaska. He and his wife bought a ranch in California, named it Hidden Valley Ranch, and started sending guests home with the dressing as a souvenir from the ranch’s steakhouse. That’s where the name comes from.
  • When they started expanding, the Hensons mailed ranch packets that people could mix at home. A shelf-stable bottle of store-bought ranch didn’t show up in supermarkets until 1983.
  • There’s a restaurant in St. Louis that serves 31 (?!?!) different kinds of ranch dressing.

The more you know!

Get stoked for life

This sauce is FYR!

an all-new line created for live fire cooking

Born from a deep passion for food and flavor. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or live fire cooking around the world, we have what you need to transform every meal into an adventure.

How to Make Homemade Ranch Dressing

​I said this dressing is an easy recipe. I wasn’t kidding. In the world of homemade dressings, it doesn’t get much simpler than this. Ready to make your own ranch? 

In a small bowl, mix together 2.5 tablespoons sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1.5 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped dill weed, 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, kosher salt to taste and buttermilk to your desired consistency. Less buttermilk if you want it on the thicker side for a perfect dip; more buttermilk if you want it thinner as a homemade salad dressing.

Homemade ranch dressing ingredients mixed together in a mason jar

Set it to the side until you’re ready to use it. I like to leave it in the fridge for 30 minutes so the flavors have a chance to meld, but it’s not totally necessary. 

There it is! The best ranch dressing. After tasting your own homemade ranch, I bet you’ll have a hard time going back to the store-bought stuff. 

What to Serve with Homemade Ranch Dressing

More like, what NOT to serve with homemade ranch dressing, because it goes with just about everything? This stuff is a game changer. You can pour it on chicken, chicken wings, bacon, steaks, tacos, quesadillas, salads, and more.

Tossing a garden salad using tongs on a plate

If you want to use it as a dipping sauce, I love it with shrimp and sliders, and you can also go with the classics of potato chips and fresh vegetables. Leave a comment and let me know your favorite way to use it!

Leftovers and Reheating

​This homemade ranch dressing will last in an airtight container or a mason jar in the fridge for up to two weeks. As far as reheating…don’t reheat it. Salad dressing recipes don’t want to be hot. 

Chicken Bacon Ranch Everything

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs? 

Sure! I do love the grassy flavors of fresh ingredients here, but dried herbs can work in a pinch. A good rule of thumb is that 1 tablespoon fresh herbs is equal to 1 teaspoon dried herbs, so adjust your quantities accordingly. 

​What’s a substitute for the sour cream or the mayonnaise? 

Full-fat plain Greek yogurt can do the trick! The consistency might be a little different and the homemade ranch might have a little less tang, but it’s a good option. 

​Can I add other flavors to my homemade ranch dressing? 

Definitely. I’m a huge fan of mixing chipotle into ranch dressing for tacos and quesadillas. If you want a little more Italian flavor, you can add in some dried or fresh oregano. Throw in dashes of hot sauce for Buffalo ranch dressing. There are tons of options out there!

Get The Cookbooks!

Flavor X Fire & FOOD X Fire

By Derek Wolf

All the major tastes—salty, sour, sweet, bitter, and umami—are explored in depth, along with an investigation of other components you should consider when it comes to flavor, such as aroma, heat, and texture.

A mason jar filled with homemade ranch dressing and a spoon covered in dressing
Print

Homemade Ranch Dressing

Here's a promise: once you make this homemade ranch dressing and realize how easy it is, you'll want to put it on everything.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 68kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

  • 2.5 tbsp Sour Cream
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
  • 1.5 tbsp Chopped Parsley
  • 1 tbsp Chopped Dill
  • 1.5 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
  • Buttermilk to desired consistency
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • In a bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the ranch dressing.

Notes

Fun Facts About Ranch Dressing
​Things that I did not know about ranch dressing until I a) started making it all the time and b) came across this New York Times “Ranch Nation” article: 
    • Ranch dressing is the most popular dressing in America, with 40 percent of people saying it’s their favorite. 
    • Steve Henson, a Nebraska plumber, came up with the recipe when he was working in construction in Alaska. He and his wife bought a ranch in California, named it Hidden Valley Ranch, and started sending guests home with the dressing as a souvenir from the ranch’s steakhouse. That’s where the name comes from.
    • When they started expanding, the Hensons mailed ranch packets that people could mix at home. A shelf-stable bottle of store-bought ranch didn’t show up in supermarkets until 1983.
    • There’s a restaurant in St. Louis that serves 31 (?!?!) different kinds of ranch dressing.
The more you know!

Nutrition

Calories: 68kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 48mg | Potassium: 40mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 188IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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https://overthefirecooking.com/homemade-ranch-dressing/feed/ 0 Homemade Ranch_Cover Image Adding Ranch in Salad Homemade Ranch Ingredients FYR banner post (3) All Ingredients in Mason Jar Tossed Salad with Ranch BBQ Chicken Bacon Ranch Skewers Chicken Bacon Ranch Sausage Skewers on the grill next to bright orange coals. The taquitos sitting on the serving plate. Chicken Bacon Ranch Patty Melts stacked on top of each other. The chicken kabobs are drizzled with the cool ranch sauce. Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadilla plated and ready to devour. cookbooks A mason jar filled with homemade ranch dressing and a spoon covered in dressing
Best BBQ Sauce Recipes https://overthefirecooking.com/best-bbq-sauce-recipes/ https://overthefirecooking.com/best-bbq-sauce-recipes/#respond Sun, 23 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=24209 chipotle bbq sauce being drizzled over a pulled pork sandwich

Get ready for the Best BBQ Sauce Recipes from Over the Fire Cooking. After all, all good barbecue deserves a…

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chipotle bbq sauce being drizzled over a pulled pork sandwich

Get ready for the Best BBQ Sauce Recipes from Over the Fire Cooking. After all, all good barbecue deserves a killer BBQ sauce. Whether you’re grilling chicken, pork, beef, or perhaps need a dipping sauce for some crispy French fries, having the perfect sauce is everything. So, let’s dive in and discover your next favorite BBQ companion!

chipotle bbq sauce being drizzled over a pulled pork sandwich

These easy BBQ sauce recipes – 7 in total – are my favorites, and soon they’ll be yours. Trust me. Homemade BBQ sauces are simple and can also become your secret weapon for your best over-the-fire dishes.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Over Store-Bought

If it’s your first time making your own sauces, fear not. It’s so easy, you’ll soon wonder what took you so long. Also, don’t get me wrong, some fantastic pre-made sauces are out there (ahem, like this one), but making your own guarantees a spot-on flavor adapted to your taste buds.

A good, spicy homemade BBQ sauce can also transform anything from hot dogs to smoked chicken, add the perfect kick to wings, or make ribs finger-licking amazing. With endless variations, creating your own BBQ sauce is a must. So get yourself to the grocery store for your ingredients, fire up the grill, and then let’s dive into these epic recipes to elevate your barbecue game.

Get stoked for life

This sauce is FYR!

an all-new line created for live fire cooking

Born from a deep passion for food and flavor. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or live fire cooking around the world, we have what you need to transform every meal into an adventure.

My Best Homemade Barbecue Sauce Recipes

When it comes to the best bbq sauce recipes, the possibilities are endless. However, I’ve rounded up seven of my go-to classic BBQ sauces. Time and again, these great recipes are the ones I keep coming back to because they are so freakin’ delicious.

1. Alabama White Sauce Recipe

Alabama white sauce is bold and creamy. It’s made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, garlic powder, and then some black pepper. This tangy sauce is perfect for smoked chicken or pulled pork. The balance of zesty and sweet flavors makes it, without a doubt, a standout for barbecue fans.

  • Kosher Salt to taste
  • 3 cups Mayonnaise
  • 1.25 cups Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 3 tbsp Prepared Horseradish
  • 3 tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 2.5 tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 Lemon juiced
  • 2.5 tsp Cayenne Powder
  • 2 tsp Black Pepper

Whisk together all the ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Adjust salt to taste and then refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Stir once more before serving for the best consistency.

Good On: Smoked chicken, pulled pork, brisket.

Dipping the chickens in the sauce.
The Smoked Chicken with Alabama White Sauce sitting on a cutting board so we can start to serve it.

Smoked Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

Smoked Chicken with Alabama White Sauce for chicken halves that are to die for.
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2. Sriracha BBQ Sauce Recipe

Grab your pork sandwiches and turn up the heat with some spicy BBQ sauce. This spicy twist combines smoky BBQ flavors with sriracha’s fiery kick. Brush it on wings, ribs, or also use it as a marinade. It caramelizes beautifully over medium heat, undoubtedly creating a perfect balance of flavors.

  • ¼ cup of Ketchup
  • 2 tbsp of Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1.5 tbsp of Brown Sugar
  • 1.5 tbsp Pineapple Juice
  • 1.5 tbsp of Honey
  • 1 tbsp of Sriracha

First, add all ingredients into a skillet over medium-low heat and bring to a boil. Then, simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, pull off and let cool for a few minutes before slathering it over your best recipes.

Good On: Huli Huli ribs, smoked chicken wings, fried rice.

Huli Huli Ribs with Sriracha BBQ Sauce waiting to be sliced.

Huli Huli Ribs with Sriracha BBQ Sauce

Huli Huli Ribs with Sriracha BBQ Sauce for a Hawaiian inspired meal right at home.
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3. Guinness BBQ Sauce

Guinness BBQ sauce takes barbecue to the next level. The rich, dark beer adds a robust flavor with a hint of sweetness and bitterness. Use it as a finishing sauce for ribs or drizzle it over smoked chicken for an Irish-inspired feast. Add garlic cloves, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce for depth.

  • 1 cup of Tomatoes purred
  • 8 oz can of Tomato Paste
  • ¼ cup of White Sugar
  • 2 tbsp of White Vinegar
  • 2 tbsp of Honey
  • 1 tbsp of Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 Can of Guinness Draught
  • 1.5 tbsp of Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp of Onion Powder
  • ½ of an Orange zested & juiced
  • 1 tbsp of Cornstarch + splash of water mixed
  • Salt & Black Pepper to taste

Add all ingredients into a skillet over medium-low heat and then bring to a boil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pull off, let cool, and then use as needed on your favorite recipes.

Good On: Smoked chicken, pork ribs, beef brisket.

Maple Guinness BBQ Pork Ribs

Maple Guinness BBQ Pork Ribs

Crush any gameday with these Maple Guinness BBQ Pork Ribs. With malty sweetness from Guinness Draught and savory bbq sauce, these ribs will be a touchdown.
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4. Bourbon Mop Recipe

Bourbon mop sauce is the secret to succulent meats. Tangy, sweet, and smoky, it’s infused with bourbon’s warmth. Perfect for basting salmon or ribs. Brush it on during cooking for a caramelized finish. A touch of cayenne pepper or chili powder takes it to another level.

First off, mix all the ingredients in a small saucepan or skillet. Heat over medium-low and then bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for up to 10 minutes, which helps achieve the desired thickness. Once it looks good to you, remove from heat and let cool.

Good On: Smoked salmon, pork ribs, beef ribs.

Smoked Ribs with Bourbon Mop Sauce sliced and served.

Smoked Ribs with Bourbon Mop Sauce

Smoked Ribs with Bourbon Mop Sauce to showcase our Sticky Bourbon Brown Ale!
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5. Honey BBQ Glaze Recipe

This sweet sauce is all about that glossy, sticky finish. Crafted with care, it combines your favorite BBQ sauce, honey, Bourbon, and then a touch of hot sauce for a simple recipe with bold results. To enhance its magic, brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking to also lock in flavor. Finally, for an extra twist, add a splash of lemon juice or some Dijon mustard for extra zing.

  • 1/2 cup of your favorite Barbecue Sauce
  • 1.5 tbsp of Honey
  • 1 tbsp of Bourbon
  • 1 tsp of Habanero Sauce or any Hot Sauce

Heat the ingredients in a skillet and then bring to a soft boil. Simmer for 5-10 minutes before removing from heat and then cooling off before use.

Good On: Chicken lollipops, grilled salmon, turkey legs.

Smoked Chicken Lollipops finished and sitting on a serving plate.

Smoked Chicken Lollipops

Smoked Chicken Lollipops with Garlic Buffalo Sauce are a deliciously dunked and ready to devour!
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6. Honey Gold BBQ Sauce

This sauce is a classic for a reason. Honey BBQ sauce blends the smokiness of BBQ with the natural sweetness of honey. Sticky, tangy, and oh-so-delicious, it’s perfect for anything from smoked pork to rotisserie chicken. Add light brown sugar and then some tangy apple cider vinegar for a rich texture.

  • Kosher Salt to taste
  • 1.25 cups Yellow Mustard
  • 2.5 tbsp Honey
  • 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • ½ tsp Cayenne Powder

Preheat a skillet over a medium heat fire (about 350°F) for the Honey Gold BBQ Sauce. Next, add all of the ingredients and stir. Then, let it simmer over medium-low heat until well incorporated (about 5-7 minutes). Once finished, pull it off the heat and then let it cool for 5 minutes.

Good On: Smoked pork, bologna, rotisserie chicken.

Smoked Bologna Burnt Ends drizzled with the Honey Gold BBQ Sauce.

Smoked Bologna Burnt Ends

Smoked Bologna Burnt Ends
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7. Honey Chipotle BBQ Sauce

Smoky, spicy, and unforgettable. Chipotle BBQ sauce combines traditional BBQ flavors with the heat of chipotle peppers. It’s a fiery option for those who love bold flavors. Add tomato sauce, ground mustard, and a hint of liquid smoke for a smoky kick.

  • ¼ cup of Ketchup
  • ¼ cup of Chipotles in Adobo Sauce pureed
  • 2 tbsp of Raw Honey
  • 3 garlic cloves pressed
  • 1.5 tbsp of Brown Sugar
  • ½ Lime juiced
  • Salt & pepper to taste

This Chipotle BBQ Sauce doesn’t necessarily require heat, as blending the ingredients creates a flavorful sauce. That said, gently simmering it for 5–10 minutes can enhance the flavors, dissolve the sugar fully, and then finally thicken the sauce slightly, making it even richer.

Good On: Wings, pulled pork, ribs, shredded beef.

overhead of a plate of honey chipotle garlic chicken wings

Honey Chipotle Garlic Chicken Wings

These Honey Chipotle Garlic Chicken Wings are juicy, deliciously crispy and smothered in a sweet and spicy Honey Chipotle Garlic Sauce.
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Regional Styles: A Quick Breakdown

If you’re diving into the world of best BBQ sauce recipes, knowing the regional styles is a must. Each region brings its own vibe, and understanding these differences can take your homemade sauces to the next level.

  • Kansas City – Think thick, sweet, and tomato-based. These sauces often feature ketchup, molasses, and brown sugar for that signature sticky sweetness. Perfect for ribs, brisket, or also slathering on pulled pork sandwiches.
  • Carolina – Carolina BBQ sauces split into two main camps. The eastern style is vinegar-forward with a sharp, tangy kick, ideal for pork. The western style, or Lexington dip, adds a tomato twist for a slightly sweeter vibe.
  • Texas – Bold and smoky. Texas sauces are all about highlighting the meat. Tomato base, black pepper, garlic powder, and then a hint of chili powder bring out the rich, smoky flavors of brisket or ribs.
  • Alabama – Hello, white sauce! This creamy, tangy masterpiece is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and then some key spices. It’s perfect for smoked chicken or also as a dipping sauce.
  • South Carolina – Golden BBQ sauce absolutely reigns here, because mustard. Mustard-based with apple cider vinegar and brown sugar, it’s tangy, sweet, and then Oh So Bold—absolutely great for pulled pork or also chicken wings.
  • Memphis – Memphis sauces are undoubtedly thinner and spicier. Vinegar and tomato paste make up the base, with spices like cayenne and then garlic powder for heat. These are undoubtedly perfect for ribs or brisket.

Regional BBQ styles show that there’s no one-size-fits-all, because people have adapted different likes and dislikes. Absolutely, feel free to experiment with different styles because you never know what works until you do.

How to Store Leftover

Here’s the deal: only save the sauce that hasn’t touched food. Afterward, store leftovers in a mason jar or airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When you’re ready to use it again, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Finally, give it another stir, and then you’re good to go.

Tips

  • Use a medium saucepan to simmer your sauce. Start on medium heat and then lower it to medium-low heat as needed.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, or liquid smoke for extra depth.
  • For balance, sweeten sauces with dark brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey.
  • Apple cider vinegar is undoubtedly your best friend for tangy BBQ sauces.
  • Experiment with simple ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, and then maybe some chili powder for a spicy kick.

Add flavor to everything you’re cooking

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https://overthefirecooking.com/best-bbq-sauce-recipes/feed/ 0 A_IMG_3720-2 FYR banner post (3) A_IMG_4942-2 The Smoked Chicken with Alabama White Sauce sitting on a cutting board so we can start to serve it. Huli Huli Ribs with Sriracha BBQ Sauce waiting to be sliced. Maple Guinness BBQ Pork Ribs Smoked Ribs with Bourbon Mop Sauce sliced and served. Smoked Chicken Lollipops finished and sitting on a serving plate. Smoked Bologna Burnt Ends drizzled with the Honey Gold BBQ Sauce. overhead of a plate of honey chipotle garlic chicken wings New-rubs-1026-x-600-1024-×-400-px
Smoked Chimichurri (The Ultimate Sauce for Grilled Meats) https://overthefirecooking.com/smoked-chimichurri/ https://overthefirecooking.com/smoked-chimichurri/#comments Thu, 14 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=31611 Smoke rising out of mason jar after adding charcoal to the chimichurri.

This Smoked Chimichurri is going to change the way you grill. You’ll be slathering it on everything you cook; I…

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Smoke rising out of mason jar after adding charcoal to the chimichurri.

This Smoked Chimichurri is going to change the way you grill. You’ll be slathering it on everything you cook; I know I have, from steak bites to sliced tri tip and even hot dogs. It adds that final burst of flavor that takes your dish from great to unforgettable. Get ready, because this is going to be your new grilling secret weapon!

Smoke rising out of mason jar after adding charcoal to the chimichurri.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Chimichurri Recipe

Chimichurri recipes are already flavor powerhouses, but when you infuse them with the rich smokiness of a live fire cooking, they become game-changers for your grilled meats. This Smoked Chimichurri brings a vibrant herbaceous kick balanced with a smoky, charred undertone—Its a great way to take any cut of steak, chicken, or even vegetables to the next level.

Pro-tip for the Best Smoked Chimichurri

To get that perfect smoky flavor without overpowering the herbs, use a white-hot coal from your fire and let the chimichurri sauce sit for no more than 30 minutes. This infuses a subtle smokiness without making the sauce too bitter. Also, if you’re smoking meats, toss the jar in the smoker for a couple of minutes for an even deeper flavor!

Ingredients Round-Up

  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped. Go for flat-leaf parsley; it’s the star of the show and brings that bright, herby goodness.
  • Garlic –  minced. Feel free to go heavier if you’re a garlic lover, no judgment here!
  • Olive oil – Choose a good quality one since it makes up most of the sauce.
  • Red wine vinegar This adds that tangy bite.
  • Dried oregano Don’t skip this because it brings an earthy note to the sauce.
  • Red pepper flakes – You can dial this up or down, depending on how much heat you’re craving.
  • Salt & pepper to taste Because what dish is complete with out a little seasoning.

Add flavor to everything you’re cooking

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Holding a hot piece of charcoal over the chimichurri, about to add it to the mix.

How to Make the Smoked Chimichurri

Making this smoked chimichurri is almost as fun as eating it. Here’s how you do it:

First, grab a Mason jar and toss in the dried oregano and red chili flakes. If you want, you can pour in some hot water and let them steep for about 5 minutes. This step helps to wake up those herbs, letting their flavors really bloom.

Next, it’s time to add the heavy hitters—your chopped parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper all go into the jar. Give it a quick stir to get everything cozy.

Now, for the fun part! Grab a smoldering, white-hot coal from your fire and then carefully drop it into the Mason jar. Quickly cover the jar to trap the smoke inside because this is where the magic happens. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes, so the smoke can mingle with all the other ingredients and infuse that deep, smoky flavor.

After the smoke has done its job, carefully fish out the coal, then give the chimichurri one final stir, and you’re ready to roll. Drizzle it over your grilled meats and seafood at room temperature, and watch the compliments come pouring in!

Smoke bellowing out of a jar of chimichurri.

How to Use Smoked Chimichurri

  • On Grilled Steak: Brush over perfectly grilled ribeye steaks, smoked piacnha, or flank steak pinewheels right before serving.
  • As a Marinade: Use the chimichurri as a simple marinade for shrimp, chicken or pork for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
  • Vegetables: Drizzle over roasted or grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or portobello mushrooms.
  • Dipping Sauce: Serve as a side dipping sauce with crusty bread, empanadas, or sausages.
Holding a spoonful of smoked chimichurri up to the camera.

Leftovers & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Just pop any extra chimichurri into a sealed airtight container and stash it in the fridge—it’ll stay good for up to a week. No need to reheat it though; chimichurri is meant to be served at room temp, so just pull it out a bit before you’re ready to use it. If it gets a little thick from chilling, no worries. I let it sit out for 10-15 minutes or stir in a splash of olive oil to bring it back to life.

Garnishing some hot dogs.

More ideas for Smoked Chimichurri

FAQs for Smoked Chimichurri

Can I use a smoker instead of a coal?

Yes, absolutely! If you’re already smoking meats, you can pop the Mason jar in your smoker for 5-10 minutes instead of using coal. However, it won’t be as robust a flavor. Just be careful not to let it smoke too long—chimichurri only needs a light touch of smoke.

What kind of parsley works best?

Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley is your go-to for chimichurri because it has a stronger, more robust flavor compared to curly parsley.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Of course! If you want more heat, bump up the red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped fresh chili. For a milder version, reduce or omit the flakes altogether.

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Flavor X Fire & FOOD X Fire

By Derek Wolf

All the major tastes—salty, sour, sweet, bitter, and umami—are explored in depth, along with an investigation of other components you should consider when it comes to flavor, such as aroma, heat, and texture.

Smoke rising out of mason jar after adding charcoal to the chimichurri.
Print

Smoked Chimichurri

This is going to be your new favorite condiment. It takes great recipes to a whole new level with a smoky flavor that will have everyone wondering what your secret is.
Course Sauce
Cuisine Argentinian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 16
Calories 154kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups Parsley chopped
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1.25 cups Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1/8 cup Hot Water
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp of Red Pepper Flakes
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Add the oregano, red chili flakes and hot water to a Mason jar and let steep for 5 minutes.
  • Add all the ingredients for the chimichurri to the Mason jar along with a smoldering coal from the fire (ideally white hot).
  • Cover quickly to encapsulate the smoke, then set to the side to let the smoke infuse for 20-30 minutes.
  • Carefully remove the coal from the chimichurri and give it one final stir.
  • Use as a marinade or on grilled steaks, chicken, seafood any anywhere else you want to add a serious pop of flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Sodium: 6mg | Potassium: 41mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 516IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

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The Best Butter Recipes https://overthefirecooking.com/best-butter-recipes/ https://overthefirecooking.com/best-butter-recipes/#respond Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=30480 Dipping meats with a fork in butter

This roundup is all about my favorite thing to take steak, seafood, vegetables — basically anything you grill — to…

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Dipping meats with a fork in butter

This roundup is all about my favorite thing to take steak, seafood, vegetables — basically anything you grill — to the next level: flavored butter recipes! Whether you’re making herb butter, cowboy butter or smoked butter, know that homemade butter is your best friend in boosting flavor. I’m stoked to share all my techniques in my favorite recipes for butter! 

Grilled steak with cowboy butter sliced and ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love Butter Recipes

If you’ve ever taken a bite of your dinner and thought it needed a little oomph to make it so freakin’ delicious, you’ve come to the right place. Flavored butter recipes — also often known as compound butter recipes — are an easy way to inject a kick into grilled meats and veggies. Because you mix butter with fresh herbs, spices, roasted garlic and more, the possibilities are endless. Once you make your own compound butter, you won’t want to stop! 

A cowboy butter steak taco being held up to the camera.

Butter Recipe Basics

  • Start with clarified butter. Clarified butter is definitely better in high-heat cooking and grilling recipes. This is because the savory butter also has a higher smoke point. You could use regular unsalted butter for our compound butters too, but just keep in mind that the milk solids and water in regular butter can burn during smoking. That can leave you with some odd flavors, which no one wants! Don’t stress, though. I’ve got a tip on the best way to make your own clarified butter below. You can also find clarified butter at your local grocery store if you’d rather go that route.
  • Be ready with fresh ingredients. Depending on your recipe, you’ll want basic ingredients like garlic, a combination of herbs like parsley or cilantro, lemon zest, lime zest or even orange zest. We’ll mix those ingredients in a small bowl with our butter.
  • Give it a twist with pantry ingredients. My FYR Hot Sauces, honey, black pepper and kosher salt are all a great way to make a better butter. 
  • If you’re making smoked butter, do NOT use a briquette. Since we’re infusing our butter with flavor from a smoking-hot coal, you want high-quality charcoal here. Please only use real wood or natural lump charcoal. Do not use briquettes or any charcoal that has been treated with chemicals. I always reach for Cowboy Charcoal because it burns super hot and super clean. That’s exactly what we need in these recipes.
A mason jar of herb butter with smoke billowing out of the top.

Get stoked for life

This sauce is FYR!

an all-new line created for live fire cooking

Born from a deep passion for food and flavor. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or live fire cooking around the world, we have what you need to transform every meal into an adventure.

How to Make Clarified Butter

First, grab your unsalted butter — you’ll want about four sticks. Melt the sticks of butter slowly over direct heat (low setting) in a small saucepan. The goal is to let the butter melt gradually and completely without boiling it. As it melts, you’ll notice the milk solids start to separate from the butter “oil.” Next, pour the liquified butter into a clear glass container and let cool for two minutes. As it cools, the milk solids will sink to the bottom of the jar. Then, pour the top portion of the butter into a new jar. That is the golden, pure yellow portion of the butter, aka the clarified butter. Try to keep any of the white, milk solids from getting poured into the new jar. That’s all there is to it! Now, you have your very own clarified butter.

The Best Herb Butter Recipes

​Garlic herb butter is classic here, but there are as many herbed butter recipes are there are plants in an herb garden! Let me know your favorite in the comments below!

Venison Rack with Wild Herb Butter

Venison Rack with Herb Butter

Venison Rack with Wild Herb Butter for something unique. Low and slow is the perfect game for a smoker, so that’s exactly what we did!
View Recipe
Herb Butter American Lamb Steaks

Herb Butter American Lamb Steaks

Grab some leg of lamb steaks and grill them over the fire with some herb butter sauce in this recipe!
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Stuffed Lobster Tails with garlic butter as they finish cooking on the grill.

Stuffed Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter

Lobster tails stuffed with crab and all doused in a savory garlic butter. Yes, please!
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Grilled Steak and Shrimp with BLK Garlic Butter assembled on a cutting board and ready to serve.

Grilled Steak and Shrimp with BLK Garlic Butter

Grilled Steak and Shrimp with BLK Garlic Butter for a spicy surf and turf dinner!
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Garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread

Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a tangy twist on Hawaiian-style garlic butter shrimp, with great garlic-citrus flavor and a crispy crunch.
herb butter ny strip

Herb Butter NY Strip

Prime cut NY Strips basted in herb butter sauce for the win!
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grilled picanha topped with garlic butter held next to a fire pit

Grilled Garlic Butter Picanha

This Grilled Garlic Butter Picanha is perfect for a backyard dinner! It's made with golden-brown picanha steaks and spicy garlic butter. 
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Garlic Parmesan Mussels

Parmesan Garlic Butter Mussels

Make something unique yet quick over the fire with these Garlic Parmesan Mussels. They are simple seafood steamed over the fire in cast iron perfect for an appetizer or dinner!
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Reverse Seared Ribeyes with butter melting on top.

Reverse Seared Ribeye

The Reverse Seared Ribeye steak recipe with black garlic butter is one of my all-time favorites for the depth of flavor in every freakin' delicious bite.
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Chipotle Garlic butter Shrimp

Chipotle Garlic Butter Shrimp

Nothing better to warm you up than this Chipotle Garlic Butter Shrimp on a snowy day! A quick cook for a delicious meal!
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Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Recipe

Grilled Steak & Shrimp with Garlic Herb Butter

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Grilled Garlic Butter Lobster Recipe

Grilled Lobster With Garlic Butter

View Recipe

The Best Smoked Butter Recipes

I’ve been on a kick of infusing butters, chimichurri and salsa verde with extra smoke flavor from a white-hot coal off the grill. It’s a simple technique, but make sure you follow the directions to get the best results. That hot honey butter is one of my favorite ways to dress up a steak right now!

Smoked Butter

As crazy as it sounds, we're dropping hot charcoal into a savory and spicy butter sauce that levels up ANY dish!
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Smoke billowing out of the butter sauce.

Smoked Steak Butter

Smoked Steak Butter will not only elevate your grilled steak, but will make almost anything taste incredible!
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Hot honey butter

Hot Honey Butter

Hot honey butter combines sweet, spicy and smoky flavors, and it's so freakin' delicious on steak, seafood and more.
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The Best Cowboy Butter Recipes

Cowboy butter is really just a catch-all term for a spicy herb and garlic butter. It’s a pretty versatile butter because it’s a delicious topping that can be served melted or as classic cold butter.

The Cowboy Butter Burger is the ultimate bite.

Cowboy Butter Burgers

Cowboy Butter Burgers bring the best of beef and butter together for one epic bite!
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Cowboy butter steak taco

Cowboy Butter Steak Tacos

Cowboy butter steak tacos are another way to use this spicy garlic herb butter, which is freakin' delicious on everything.
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Cowboy Butter Sliders

Cowboy Butter Sliders

Cowboy Butter Sliders are the ultimate comfort food. Tender sliced filets are slathered in the zesty spicy butter and paired with caramelized onions and gooey mozzarella cheese.
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One sliced and one whole Grilled Ribeye with Cowboy Butter.

Grilled Ribeye with Cowboy Butter

Grilled Ribeye with Cowboy Butter
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The coffee crusted venison rack sitting with potatoes and bacon wrapped asparagus.

Coffee Crusted Venison Rack with Cowboy Butter

Coffee Crusted Venison Rack for a perfectly cooked venison dinner.
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Chili Butters & Other Spicy Butters

For those of you that like something with a kick. Remember, you can also turn the heat up or down, and adding chilis, hot sauces and cajun seasoning can be just the thing a butter needs!

Chili Butter Steak and Shrimp plated and served.

Chili Butter Steak and Shrimp

Chili Butter Steak and Shrimp for a spicy, savory surf and turf experience.
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Sliced steaks ready to eat.

Coffee Crusted Ribeyes with Honey Chili Butter

These Coffee Crusted Ribeyes are coated in a smoky coffee spice rub and topped with a sweet and spicy homemade honey chili butter.
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Smoked Lobster Tails

Smoked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Smoked Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter is a versatile seafood recipe—perfect for your next special occasion or casual Friday night dinner!
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A hand holding a grilled lobster tail with honey Cajun butter and a grill in the background

Grilled Lobster Tails with Honey Cajun Butter

Our grilled lobster tails get a Southern twist with some honey Cajun butter. It's a perfect backyard cook if you're craving sweet and spicy!
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dirty lobster tails

Dirty Lobster Tails with Hatch Chile Butter Sauce

Delicious dirty lobster tails cooked right on top of some hot Cowboy Charcoal. Then, these Lobster Tails are then finished with a Hatch Chile Butter Sauce for extra flavor.
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Grilled Lobster with Hot Honey Butter placed together on a serving platter.

Grilled Lobster with Hot Honey Butter

Grilled Lobster with Hot Honey Butter for a sweet, spicy lobster treat.
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delicious sriracha butter lobster tails

Sriracha Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

With heat from sriracha and tang from garlic, we've got a dynamic duo of flavor for sriracha butter grilled lobster tails.
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Surf and Turf Butter Burger

Surf and Turf Burger with Sriracha Chive Compound Butter

Surf and Turf Butter Burger Recipe for a fist full of deliciousness!
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Smoked Citrus Chile Chicken Wings

Steakhouse Ribeyes with Horseradish Butter

We can all use a really good steak every once in a while. This Steakhouse Ribeye is loaded with garlic salt and paired with king oyster mushrooms, charred asparagus, horseradish butter and BUSH’S® Steakhouse Recipe Grillin’ Beans.
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Steak Frites with Garlic Chili Butter displayed on a serving platter.

Steak Frites with Garlic Chili Butter

Steak Frites with Garlic Chili Butter for your elevated steak and fries dish.
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A stack of sliced grilled steaks with bourbon butter and a bottle of Pendleton Whisky

Bourbon Butter for Grilled Steaks

We hosted an epic summer steak and fries party — and the bourbon butter I made to baste the grilled steaks 1,000 percent stole the show.
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Other Buttery Ideas

Cilantro Lime Butter Scallops

Cilantro Lime Butter Scallops

These Cilantro Lime Butter Scallops are perfectly seared then topped off with a zesty citrus butter over top. A great seafood dinner!
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Smoked Tequila Butter Shrimp

Smoked Tequila Butter Shrimp

Another seafood recipe swimming in butter? Heck yes! Today we have a Smoked Tequila Butter Shrimp Recipe cooked over fire.
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What to Serve with the Best Butter Recipes

As I like to say, the better question is what NOT to serve with these butter recipes. They take steaksseafoodburgers and other meats to the next level. I also think it’s a great dipping sauce for cornbread, dinner rolls, or a slice of fresh bread. 

Dipping meats with a fork in butter

Another favorite sauce of mine is chimichurri. If you want another sauce to add to your meals that’s fresh and herby, then make sure to check out my Best Chimichurri Recipes!

Leftovers and Reheating

Once you’ve crafted your delicious butter mixture, proper storage is key to maintaining its rich flavor and quality. After you’ve prepared it, let the butter cool to room temperature (no longer than a couple of hours) before placing it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze the butter in ice cube trays for up to 6 months.

FAQs

​What kind of butter should I use? 

For best results in these butter recipes, go for unsalted butter, since you can season to your favorite flavor more so than with salted butter. There’s a lot of good quality butter in grocery stores! Sample a few store-bought butter brands and see what you like best. I’d love to hear what you find out in your butter taste-testing journey. 

Should I brown my butter? 

Brown butter works great in lots of other settings, but I try not to do it here. That’s because I don’t want the bold flavor to overpower the other ingredients in our beautiful butter.

Can I swap the herbs or other ingredients?

Definitely! Just keep an eye on the recipe, because you don’t want to create conflicting flavors. For Tex-Mex style dishes, I like to stick with cilantro and parsley. Those two herbs are super versatile, since cilantro is great with Thai and Indian flavors too. Parsley really goes with pretty much anything. For Italian-inspired dishes, rosemary, fresh thyme and oregano are great options too. There are so many different ways to make the perfect spread, I could go on and on!

Get The Cookbooks!

Flavor X Fire & FOOD X Fire

By Derek Wolf

All the major tastes—salty, sour, sweet, bitter, and umami—are explored in depth, along with an investigation of other components you should consider when it comes to flavor, such as aroma, heat, and texture.

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https://overthefirecooking.com/best-butter-recipes/feed/ 0 A_IMG_0209-2 Cover-Image-6 A_IMG_3408-2 FYR banner post (3) Venison Rack with Wild Herb Butter Herb Butter American Lamb Steaks Stuffed Lobster Tails with garlic butter as they finish cooking on the grill. Grilled Steak and Shrimp with BLK Garlic Butter assembled on a cutting board and ready to serve. Garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread herb butter ny strip grilled picanha topped with garlic butter held next to a fire pit Garlic Parmesan Mussels Reverse Seared Ribeyes with butter melting on top. Chipotle Garlic butter Shrimp Garlic Butter Steak and Shrimp Recipe Grilled Garlic Butter Lobster Recipe Smoke billowing out of the butter sauce. Hot honey butter The Cowboy Butter Burger is the ultimate bite. Cowboy butter steak taco Cowboy Butter Sliders One sliced and one whole Grilled Ribeye with Cowboy Butter. The coffee crusted venison rack sitting with potatoes and bacon wrapped asparagus. Chili Butter Steak and Shrimp plated and served. Sliced steaks ready to eat. Smoked Lobster Tails A hand holding a grilled lobster tail with honey Cajun butter and a grill in the background dirty lobster tails Grilled Lobster with Hot Honey Butter placed together on a serving platter. delicious sriracha butter lobster tails Surf and Turf Butter Burger Smoked Citrus Chile Chicken Wings Steak Frites with Garlic Chili Butter displayed on a serving platter. A stack of sliced grilled steaks with bourbon butter and a bottle of Pendleton Whisky Cilantro Lime Butter Scallops Smoked Tequila Butter Shrimp Ingredients-Photo-1 cookbooks
Smoked Salsa Verde https://overthefirecooking.com/smoked-salsa-verde/ https://overthefirecooking.com/smoked-salsa-verde/#comments Mon, 19 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=30337 Smoked Salsa Verde

Grilling up some Smoked Salsa Verde in your backyard is one of the best ways to celebrate the art of…

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Smoked Salsa Verde

Grilling up some Smoked Salsa Verde in your backyard is one of the best ways to celebrate the art of homemade salsas. If it’s your first time making your own tomatillo salsa verde, buckle up. This is one of my favorite creative outdoor cooking recipes.

Smoked Salsa Verde is ready to eat.

The great flavor of this easy recipe will blow your mind. It’s all about those heaps of fresh flavor with a hint of smokiness that’ll make you rethink store-bought green salsa.

Now that your taste buds are fired up, let’s fire up the grill and get this fiesta started. This is a freakin’ delicious and flavorful salsa that I happen to love drizzling over my spiced flank steak and eggs.

Why You’ll Love Smoked Salsa Verde

So, why should you be stoked about this smoked salsa verde recipe? First off, it’s unlike any salsa you’ve ever tasted. Undoubtedly, my favorite part of the recipe is the charring process on my FYR Grill. The fire caramelizes the veggies and brings out their natural smokiness without any artificial flavors. Plus, adding a lump of coal at the end is pure fun. This amps up the smokiness to another level.

The green sauce is drizzled over sliced flank steak and eggs and served with rice and beans.

If you need some more inspiration about how to use your smoky green sauce, check out these recipes: Cheesy Skewered Skirt Steak with Salsa Verde, Steak Tacos with Corn Salsa, Steak and Egg Tacos, Grilled Steak Burrito Bowl, and Easy Steak Quesadilla. All of which are great candidates to substitute or add these smoked salsa verde to!

Salsa Verde Sauce Ingredients Roundup 

Okay, so before jumping into the full recipe, let’s go through the list of items you need from the local grocery store. Make sure to snag the freshest and best ingredients for this salsa verde recipe. You’ll need tomatillos, a white onion, a couple of jalapeño peppers, garlic cloves, fresh cilantro, green onions, fresh lime juice, and a bit of vegetable oil. Don’t forget to grab some kosher salt or sea salt to season everything just right. Simple, right?

What kind of charcoal should I use to put into the salsa for the smoke?

For the best smoky flavor, I recommend using Cowboy Charcoal. It burns hot and clean, giving your salsa a great smoky taste without any unwanted chemicals or flavors. Just make sure to use a small, smoldering piece to avoid overpowering the salsa.

How to Make Smoked Salsa Verde

Alright, let’s get to the fun part – making the salsa! First things first, preheat your grill to a high heat temperature, around 400 degrees F. We want it nice and hot to get a good char on those veggies.

While the grill is heating up, remove the husks from your tomatillos. Once your grill is ready, place the tomatillos, quartered onion, and jalapeno peppers directly on the grates. Let them char until they’re blackened and caramelized. Trust me, this step is crucial for developing that smoky flavor that makes this salsa verde recipe stand out.

The fresh vegetables are grilled on the FYR Grill.

Once your veggies are nicely charred, pull them off the grill and let them cool for a bit. Then, add them to your food processor (or immersion blender) along with the garlic cloves, lime juice, and a bit of water. Blend everything until you reach the consistency of your salsa preference. Some folks like it chunky, others smooth. In the end, it’s totally up to you!

The grilled veggies are blended for the perfect texture.

After blending, mix in the chopped cilantro and green onion, which add even more flavor to your homemade salsa.

Now, for the smoky twist – place your salsa in a Mason jar and add a smoldering coal from the grill. Cover it quickly to trap the smoke, then set it aside to marinate for about 20-30 minutes.

Next, all you need to do is enjoy. Cheers!

The green sauce is literally smoked with charcoal.

What to Serve with Smoked Salsa Verde

This flavorful salsa is perfect with some crunchy tortilla chips, but don’t stop there! It’s also fantastic on top of grilled meats like flank steak or spare ribs or as a tangy topping for tacos and burritos. The touch of smoke and fresh ingredients make it versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes.

The steak, eggs, rice, and beans are plated and drizzled with the Smoked Salsa Verde.

How to Store Leftover Salsa

If you have any leftover smoked salsa verde, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep its fresh flavor for about 3-5 days. Give it a good sniff before serving to ensure it’s still fresh. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays if you want to save small portions for later.

For More Smoked Sauces

FAQs

What are Tomatillos Anyway?

Tomatillos are small, green fruits that are a staple in Mexican cuisine. They look like little green tomatoes, but they have a tangy, slightly citrusy flavor that’s perfect for making green salsa. They come with a papery husk that you need to remove before cooking. 

If I don’t have tomatillos can I use Roma tomatoes instead? 

You can, but keep in mind that Roma tomatoes will give you a different flavor profile. Tomatillos have a tangy, slightly citrusy taste that’s pivotal for that classic salsa verde flavor. 

How can I make my sauce spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add more jalapeno peppers or even throw in some serrano peppers. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Get The Cookbooks!

Flavor X Fire & FOOD X Fire

By Derek Wolf

All the major tastes—salty, sour, sweet, bitter, and umami—are explored in depth, along with an investigation of other components you should consider when it comes to flavor, such as aroma, heat, and texture.

Smoked Salsa Verde
Print

Smoked Salsa Verde

Get ready to make my absolute favorite Smoked Salsa Verde. it's a fun way to add a genuine smoky flavor to all your foods, even when you don't have a smoker.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American, Mexican
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 71kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

Smoked Salsa Verde Ingredients

  • 5-6 Tomatillos husks removed
  • 1 White Onions quartered
  • 2-3 Jalapeno Peppers
  • 2-3 Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 cup Chopped Cilantro
  • ¼ cup Chopped Green Onions
  • 2 Limes juiced
  • ¼ cup Water
  • Kosher Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil

Instructions

  • Preheat your grill to high heat temperature (around 400F).
  • Add your tomatillos, onion and jalapenos to the grill to char until blackened. Pull off once done.
  • Add all the ingredients (but the cilantro and green onion) to a food processor and blend until the consistency that you like. Mix in the green onion and cilantro at the end.
  • Add the salsa to a mason jar along with a smoldering coal from the fire (ideally white hot). Cover quickly to encapsulate the smoke, then set to the side to marinate for 20-30 minutes.

Video

Notes

What kind of charcoal should I use to put into the salsa for the smoke?
For the best smoky flavor, I recommend using Cowboy charcoal. It burns hot and clean, giving your salsa a great smoky taste without any unwanted chemicals or flavors. Just make sure to use a small, smoldering piece to avoid overpowering the salsa.

Nutrition

Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 130mg | Potassium: 236mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 391IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg

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https://overthefirecooking.com/smoked-salsa-verde/feed/ 1 Cover-Image-1 A_IMG_4040-2 Untitled-23-×-24-in Untitled-23-×-24-in-2 Untitled-23-×-24-in-3 A_IMG_4047-2 Smoke billowing out of the butter sauce. Steak Bites with Smoked Chimichurri cookbooks Smoked Salsa Verde
Best Chimichurri Recipes https://overthefirecooking.com/best-chimichurri-recipes/ https://overthefirecooking.com/best-chimichurri-recipes/#respond Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0000 https://overthefirecooking.com/?p=29825 A close up shot of chimichurri.

If you want to elevate your grilling game, without a doubt, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving…

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A close up shot of chimichurri.

If you want to elevate your grilling game, without a doubt, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of chimichurri, one of South America’s most beloved cowboy cooking sauces. We’ve curated this roundup article to highlight all our best chimichurri recipes in one place!

The classic chimichurri sauce mixed together in a serving bowl.

With its tangy flavor and fresh, herbaceous vibes, chimichurri is a surefire way to level up any of your favorite grilled meats! In this post, we’re diving into the best chimichurri recipes that you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone.

Sauce Origins

Before diving too deep into the ins and outs of chimichurri, we need to take a moment to talk about the origins of the famous sauce.

Chimichurri hails from Argentina and Uruguay, where it’s especially a staple in traditional cuisine. This herbaceous sauce is traditionally served with grilled meats, adding a burst of flavor to dishes like skirt steak and flank steak.

Authentic Argentine chimichurri combines flat-leaf parsley, garlic, vinegar and olive oil. This creates a bright green sauce that’s both savory and tangy. The addition of red pepper flakes or fresh tomatoes can turn it into a delicious chimichurri rojo, offering a slightly different, but equally awesome taste.

My Experience

Adding chimichurri to a choripan.

I had the incredible opportunity to attend a friend’s asado while visiting South America some years back. We spend the afternoon around a fire grilling up all kinds of meats and adding chimichurri to every bite of it.

One of my favorites was enjoying the chimichurri on a choripan! The above and below photos are from that very asado in Patagonia. We cracked open a jar of my friends chimichurri that he sells to local restaurants with the community and dug in! If you want to give choripan a try, check out my Loaded Choripan and Cheese Stuffed Choripan recipes!

A cutting board full of sliced steak, topped with chimichurri.

One thing I learned at that asado is that American’s tend to enjoy fresh chimichurri. We like to use fresh parsley and oregano and make a very bright sauce out of it. It’s actually more traditional for South American’s to make their chimichurri out of dried ingredients. They love their dried herbs and let the chimichurri sit at room temperature to marinate for a while before using it. It makes for a really flavorful and delicious sauce.

If you really get into chimichurri, you should give both a try! Then drop a comment below and let me know if you prefer the fresh herbs vs the dried herbs when it comes to your chimichurri.

Why You’ll Love Chimichurri

My best chimichurri recipes are all about those fresh ingredients, mostly because the fresh version of chimichurri is my favorite. Chimichurri is an easy sauce made with a mixture of several things.

Fresh parsley, fresh cilantro and fresh oregano tend to be the mainstays that get combined with the zing of red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. The addition of garlic cloves, red pepper flakes and a good dose of extra virgin olive oil creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

Chimichurri marinated tri-tip getting placed on the grill.

It’s the perfect way to add zesty and vibrant flavor to your dishes, and it doubles as a great marinade for your favorite cuts of meat like picanha, skirt steak, flank steak, sandwiches and lamb chops. Plus, it stores well in an airtight container, making it a great make-ahead option for your next gathering or backyard BBQ.

Best Chimichurri Recipe Basics

The basic ingredients for chimichurri include fresh parsley, fresh cilantro (optional) and then fresh oregano (also optional), which form the herbaceous base of the sauce. I mention the optional piece of the sauce because it’s all about your preferences! Most of my chimichurri recipes consist of a base that’s just parsley, but if you’re a fan of cilantro and oregano then definitely add them in.

Garlic cloves and red pepper flakes add a punch of flavor and heat. For the acidic component, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar is used, providing the tangy flavor that balances the herbs and spices.

My mainstay ingredients for this sauce all set out on a cutting board.

To bring everything together, extra virgin olive oil is essential, giving the chimichurri its smooth and cohesive texture. Lemon juice or lime juice adds an additional layer of acidity and brightness. Season with kosher salt or sea salt and black pepper to taste. Red onion can also be added for an extra burst of flavor, though it is optional. These simple ingredients create a vibrant and versatile sauce perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes.

Tips for Making Chimichurri

  1. Dried vs Fresh Herbs: For me, the fresh parsley, cilantro and oregano are the key to getting that authentic chimichurri flavor. However, you might like the dried herbs more! Give both a try to decide your favorite before getting too adventurous with the sauce.
  2. Balance the Acidity: Adjust the vinegar (red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar) and citrus (lemon juice or lime juice) to taste. This balance gives chimichurri its signature tangy flavor.
  3. Storage: Keep your chimichurri in a Mason jar or an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours to let the flavors meld. For longer storage, of course, refrigerate and then consider using ice cube trays to freeze individual portions for easy use.
  4. Variety: Experiment with chimichurri verde and chimichurri rojo. The green chimichurri is classic, while the red version adds a kick with red chili peppers or Fresno chiles.

Best Chimichurri Recipes for Picanha Steaks

The Best Chimichurri Recipes roundup would clearly be incomplete without these picanha steak recipes.

Skewered Picanha with Bone Marrow Chimichurri served on a cutting board.

Skewered Picanha with Bone Marrow Chimichurri

Why is bone marrow chimichurri gaining popularity? This recipe will show you why!
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Chimichurri and Cheese Stuffed Picanha

Chimichurri and Cheese Stuffed Picanha

How about throwing some cheese in the mix for a stuffed picanha? Let’s freakin’ gooooo!
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Smoked Picanha with Spicy Smoked Chimichurri

Smoked Picanha with Spicy Smoked Chimichurri

This amazing Smoked Picanha with Spicy Smoked Chimichurri is your ticket to Brazilian steakhouse flavor.
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The sliced steaks being held next to the FYR Grill.

Picanha with Chimichurri Butter

Skewered Picanha with Chimichurri Butter, cooked rotisserie-style, is one of the easiest ways to make picanha steaks taste phenomenal.
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Skillet Steaks

Perfectly seared steak bites in a skillet then paired with farm-fresh eggs and potatoes? Yes! And then for the final touch, they are finished with a zesty chimichurri sauce.

Steak Bites with Smoked Chimichurri

Steak Bites with Smoked Chimichurri

This isn’t your typical steak, egg and potato recipe—the smoked chimichurri sauce is the star.
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a skillet next to a fire filled with fried eggs, sliced steak, and potatoes topped with charred scallion chimichurri

Steak and Eggs with Charred Scallion Chimichurri

This recipe knocks it out of the park with juicy steak, tender chunks of potato and fluffy scrambled eggs all topped off with homemade charred scallion chimichurri.
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Best Chimichurri Recipes for Grilled steaks

Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy juicy, flavorful steaks topped with vibrant chimichurri sauce. These recipes combine the smoky char of perfectly grilled steaks with the fresh, herbaceous kick of chimichurri. The result? A mouthwatering experience that elevates any barbecue or dinner gathering.

Brazilian Steaks with Habanero Chimichurri sliced and topped with the chimichurri.

Brazilian Steaks with Habanero Chimichurri

These Brazilian steaks are topped with a habanero chimichurri for an extra spicy kick that is so freakin' delicious.
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closeup of a pile of cubed steak topped with tomato herb chimichurri

Parmesan Crusted Steak Skewers with Tomato Herb Chimichurri

These Parmesan Crusted Steak Skewers are juicy bites of grilled steak crusted in parmesan and served with fresh Tomato Herb Chimichurri. 
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steak and smashed potatoes being drizzled with a spoonful of chimichurri butter

Beef Short Ribs with Chimichurri Butter

These Grilled Beef Short Ribs with melted chimichurri butter are cooked over a smokeless firepit until tender and served with crispy smashed potatoes.
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Wagyu Secreto Steak with Roasted Chimichurri

Wagyu Secreto Steak with Roasted Chimichurri

American Wagyu is the best of the best when it comes to steak. Grilled over an open flame and then topped with roasted chimichurri, it's next-level perfection.
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The Rotisserie Beef Ribs smothered in Chimichurri.

Rotisserie Beef Ribs with Chimichurri

Rotisserie Beef Ribs brings the best of slow cooking to your backyard, yielding fall-off-the bone tender beef smothered in a flavor-packed chimichurri sauce.
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Chimichurri Steak & Shrimp Cooked Over the Fire

Chimichurri Steak and Shrimp

Perfectly grilled filet mignon, smoky bacon and succulent shrimp are leveled up by our delicious chimichurri sauce.
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grilled skirt steak

Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimichurri

With a nice crusted outer layer and a tender, juicy inner layer, this cut is a fan favorite, especially because of the chimichurri sauce on top.
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beef back ribs

Beef Back Ribs with Chimichurri

Juicy and well marbled beef back ribs thrown on the smoker and cooked till they fall off the bone. Maybe add some chimichurri?
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Steak Sandwich Recipes

Elevate your sandwich game with the fresh, tangy flavors of chimichurri. These recipes combine the bold, herbaceous sauce with a variety of delicious fillings, creating mouthwatering sandwiches that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re packing lunch or making a quick dinner, chimichurri sandwiches are an absolutely delicious way to enjoy the sauce.

The epic Chimichurri Burger.

Chimichurri Burger

Tender slices of picanha beef help create a totally unique and different way to make an insanely satisfying, over-the-top juicy burger.
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Smoked Sausage Chimichurri Sandwich

Smoked Sausage Chimichurri Sandwich

Grab a win this football tailgating season with the Smoked Sausage Chimichurri Sandwich. This zesty and smoky sandwich is all you need in your winning ritual!
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Chimichurrie Steak Sandwich being held close to the camera to show the assembly of the sandwich.

Chimichurri Steak Sandwich

The Chimichurri Steak sandwich is my idea of the perfect meal, whether for lunch or dinner.
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side view of buns layered with ground sausage, egg, and chimichurri on a plate

Cheese Stuffed Sausage Sandwich with Chimichurri

This Cheese Stuffed Sausage Sandwich is stuffed with gooey cheddar and layered with Italian sausage, a fried egg, and fresh chimichurri.
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two halves of a cheese stuffed choripan sandwich held over a fire

Cheese Stuffed Choripan with Tomato Chimichurri

This Cheese Stuffed Choripan is made of provolone-stuffed hoagie rolls topped with chorizo sausage, tomato chimichurri, and spicy habanero.
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Chimichurri Marinated Tri-Tip with Grilled Fries

This delicious cut of meat is best served with a homemade chimichurri sauce full of fresh herbs and French fries on the side.
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Viral pizza sandwich made with chorizo and chimichurri

Pizza Sandwich with Chimichurri Sauce

The Pizza Sandwich features spicy chorizo, melted mozzarella, and homemade chimichurri on a pizza bun.
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Choripan Burger

Loaded Choripan with Spicy Serrano Chimichurri

Loaded Choripan for a delicious, hand held kind of dinner.
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The steak frites sandwich prepared and ready to serve.

Steak Frites Sandwich with Chimichurri

Steak Frites Sandwich for a delicious way to enjoy the best of steak and freshly fried French fries all in one bite!
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Chimichurri steak sliders.

Chimichurri Steak Sliders

Chimichurri Steak Sliders are my mouthwateringly delicious take on the classic beef burger sliders with onion rings.
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Best Chimichurri for Lamb Recipes

Mint chimichurri anyone?! Check out the below recipes to see how I customize my chimichurri recipes to pair with all types of lamb!

A close up shot of Rotisserie Leg of Lamb.

Rotisserie Leg of Lamb with Chimichurri

Rotisserie Leg of Lamb is an epic recipe that pairs marinated and roasted lamb with a zesty chimichurri sauce.
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white wine herb lamb skewers

Lamb Skewers with Mint Chimichurri

St. Patrick’s Day, here we come! For this year’s celebration I made a White Wine Herb Lamb Skewers with Mint Chimichurri recipe.
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Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Mint Chimichurri on the grill with flames in the background.

Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Mint Chimichurri

Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Mint Chimichurri is the perfect dinner switch up.
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More Chimichurri-Inspired Recipes

Discover the endless possibilities of chimichurri. These recipes, in particular, prove just how incredibly adaptable and delicious chimichurri can be.

Pancetta Empanadas with Citrus Herb Chimichurri

It is time to dive into these Fried Pancetta Empanadas. Fried them up, paired with Citrus Herb Chimichurri & we are ready to go!
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Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri

Flavorful meat and melted cheese in a crispy dough are paired with my favorite chimichurri dipping sauce.
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fire baked chimichurri wings

Fire Baked Chimichurri Wings

If you’re looking for a fun twist on regular old chicken wings, then you need to try these Fire Baked Chimichurri Wings!
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A sliced shot of the pizza bread being held up to the camera.

Chorizo Pizza Bread with Tomato Chimichurri

Chorizo Pizza Bread is everything you love about pizza on a delicious piece of Italian bread!
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Surf and Turf Jalapeño Poppers with Cilantro Chimichurri plated and served

Surf and Turf Jalapeño Poppers with Cilantro Chimichurri

Surf and Turf Jalapeño Poppers for a seafood twist on a griller's favorite appetizer.
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Cheese fries with chimichurri steak

Cheese Fries with Chimichurri Steak

This loaded plate of fries has steak, zesty chimichurri sauce and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner.
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Smoke rising out of mason jar after adding charcoal to the chimichurri.

Smoked Chimichurri

This is going to be your new favorite condiment. It takes great recipes to a whole new level with a smoky flavor that will have everyone wondering what your secret is.
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How to Smoke Chimichurri

If you follow me, you know how excited I was after experimenting with smoked chimichurri. It’s a weird and crazy way to make this sauce even more delicious. After I made the traditional sauce with a hot coal from the fire, I couldn’t wait to try smoked butter—and it turned out spectacularly! It should be obvious, but when it comes to depth and flavor, a smoky chimichurri sauce is unbeatable!

Chimichurri getting added on top of a sandwich.

Seafood is a fantastic match for these smoked chimichurri sauces. They effortlessly level up grilled shrimp, salmon, or a robust fish like swordfish. Moreover, the chimichurri’s smoky and herbaceous notes provide an insanely good contrast.

Additionally, don’t forget the vegetables! Roasted or grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus become even more freakin’ delicious when paired with smoked chimichurri butter. The sauce enhances their natural sweetness, adding a rich, smoky undertone.

Garnishing a skillet of streak, potatoes and eggs.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Definitely! While fresh herbs give the best flavor, you can nevertheless use dried herbs in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the quantity, because dried herbs are more concentrated.

How long does the sauce last?

Chimichurri can last up to a week in the fridge when stored in an airtight container, such as a Mason jar. Alternatively, you can also freeze it in ice cube trays for up to three months.

Can the sauce be made in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, chimichurri tastes even better after sitting for a few hours. Make it ahead of time and then store it in a Mason jar or an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

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https://overthefirecooking.com/best-chimichurri-recipes/feed/ 0 A_IMG_0340-2 A_IMG_6752 A_IMG_6772 A_IMG_2244-2 A_IMG_0328-2 Skewered Picanha with Bone Marrow Chimichurri served on a cutting board. Chimichurri and Cheese Stuffed Picanha Smoked Picanha with Spicy Smoked Chimichurri The sliced steaks being held next to the FYR Grill. Steak Bites with Smoked Chimichurri a skillet next to a fire filled with fried eggs, sliced steak, and potatoes topped with charred scallion chimichurri Brazilian Steaks with Habanero Chimichurri sliced and topped with the chimichurri. closeup of a pile of cubed steak topped with tomato herb chimichurri steak and smashed potatoes being drizzled with a spoonful of chimichurri butter Wagyu Secreto Steak with Roasted Chimichurri The Rotisserie Beef Ribs smothered in Chimichurri. Chimichurri Steak & Shrimp Cooked Over the Fire grilled skirt steak beef back ribs The epic Chimichurri Burger. Smoked Sausage Chimichurri Sandwich Chimichurrie Steak Sandwich being held close to the camera to show the assembly of the sandwich. side view of buns layered with ground sausage, egg, and chimichurri on a plate two halves of a cheese stuffed choripan sandwich held over a fire Viral pizza sandwich made with chorizo and chimichurri Choripan Burger The steak frites sandwich prepared and ready to serve. Chimichurri steak sliders. A close up shot of Rotisserie Leg of Lamb. white wine herb lamb skewers Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Mint Chimichurri on the grill with flames in the background. fire baked chimichurri wings A sliced shot of the pizza bread being held up to the camera. Surf and Turf Jalapeño Poppers with Cilantro Chimichurri plated and served Cheese fries with chimichurri steak Smoke rising out of mason jar after adding charcoal to the chimichurri. A_IMG_0431-2 A_IMG_1993-2 cookbooks