Irresistible Stick of Butter Sauce Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Tomato Garlic Fusion
When it comes to elevating simple pantry staples into something unforgettable, few sauces rival the Stick of Butter Sauce. Rich, savory, and layered with bold flavor, this recipe blends garlic & herb butter, olive oil, and slow-simmered tomatoes into a velvety, restaurant-quality sauce. Whether you’re tossing it with pasta, spooning it over roasted vegetables, or using it as a base for hearty casseroles, this is the sauce your kitchen needs.
Why This Stick of Butter Sauce Stands Out
This sauce delivers on every level: depth of flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility. Using quality ingredients like a garlic & herb butter stick (such as Kerrygold), whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, and freshly sliced garlic, the recipe unfolds layers of richness with every bite. The final result is an umami-forward, creamy tomato-based sauce that enhances anything it touches.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Butter Tomato Sauce
To make this recipe from scratch, you will need the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing and adding a subtle fruitiness to the base.
- ½ an onion, sliced – Brings sweetness and body to the sauce.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- Salt & cracked black pepper, to taste – Enhances all flavors.
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced – Infuses the sauce with robust aroma and richness.
- 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes – The base of the sauce; preferably San Marzano for best results.
- 32 oz jar marinara sauce – Adds depth, texture, and a second layer of tomato flavor.
- ½ cup water – Helps simmer and balance the thickness.
- 1 stick garlic & herb butter – The heart of the recipe, delivering creaminess and infused herb notes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Stick of Butter Sauce
1. Start With the Aromatics
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced onion and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic and Build the Base
Add the sliced garlic cloves to the pan, stirring gently to avoid browning. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the garlic is golden and aromatic. Season lightly with salt and cracked black pepper.
3. Incorporate Tomatoes and Marinara
Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes with their juice. Using the back of a wooden spoon, crush the tomatoes directly in the pan. Follow with the jar of marinara sauce and stir to combine. Pour in ½ cup water to loosen the sauce slightly and aid in the simmering process.
4. Simmer for Maximum Flavor
Bring the sauce to a light boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld. The sauce should reduce and thicken slightly.
5. Finish with the Garlic & Herb Butter
Just before serving, stir in the entire stick of garlic & herb butter. Let it melt completely into the sauce, turning it into a luscious, silky texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Stick of Butter Sauce
- Use High-Quality Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes offer the most flavor and sweetness, making them ideal for this sauce.
- Butter Choice Matters: Opt for premium garlic & herb butter brands like Kerrygold for a rich, nuanced finish.
- Low and Slow: Allowing the sauce to simmer slowly deepens its flavor and ensures a silky consistency.
- Don’t Skip the Garlic: Thin slices, not minced garlic, yield better flavor distribution and reduce bitterness.
Serving Suggestions for Stick of Butter Sauce
This sauce’s robust flavor makes it incredibly versatile. Here are our favorite pairings:
1. Over Fresh Pasta
Ladle generously over al dente pasta like tagliatelle, rigatoni, or pappardelle. Top with shaved Parmesan and fresh basil for a classic Italian-inspired dish.
2. As a Sauce for Meatballs
Serve it warm over homemade beef or turkey meatballs, letting the butter-infused tomato sauce soak into each bite.
3. On Roasted Vegetables
Drizzle over a tray of roasted zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower for a simple vegetarian dinner with gourmet flair.
4. As a Pizza Base
Replace traditional marinara with this sauce on homemade pizza dough for a deeper, buttery flavor.
5. Baked Chicken or Eggplant Parmesan
Use it as your go-to sauce for baked dishes like chicken Parm or eggplant Parmigiana, layering between breaded cutlets and mozzarella.
Storing and Reheating Stick of Butter Sauce
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Make It Your Own: Variations of the Stick of Butter Sauce
This recipe provides the perfect canvas for custom additions. Try these enhancements:
- Creamy Version: Add ½ cup heavy cream just before the butter for a rich, pink sauce.
- Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked Italian sausage.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh thyme, oregano, or chopped basil at the end of cooking.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced cremini mushrooms with the onions for an earthy dimension.
Nutritional Overview
While indulgent, this sauce is also packed with nutrients from tomatoes and garlic:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Total Fat | ~14g |
| Saturated Fat | ~6g |
| Sodium | Varies by sauce brand |
| Vitamin C | High (from tomatoes) |
| Antioxidants | Rich in lycopene & allicin |
Final Thoughts
Stick of Butter Sauce is more than just another tomato sauce. It’s a decadent, flavorful, and surprisingly simple recipe that turns everyday ingredients into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or an elaborate dinner party spread, this sauce brings comfort, depth, and satisfaction to every bite.