Ingredients
Scale
Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Add-Ons for Depth:
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and zest the lemon. Keep all ingredients ready for quick assembly.
- Melt the Butter
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be careful not to burn it.
- Sauté the Garlic
- Add minced garlic to the melted butter. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Spices
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well to combine.
- Add Liquid Ingredients
- Stir in the lemon juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Taste and Adjust
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, or extra lemon juice if needed.
- Add Final Touches
- Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon zest. Cook for an additional minute to release their aroma.
- Serve Immediately
- Pour the sauce over freshly boiled seafood and toss to coat. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
Make extra sauce for dipping crusty bread—it’s too good to waste!