A Great Brown Butter Sauce with Sage Can Elevate ANY Meal
Sage brown butter sauce is a simple yet luxurious addition to any meal. It elevates dishes with its rich, nutty flavor and the aromatic essence of fresh sage. Perfect for drizzling over pasta, roasted vegetables, or even grilled meats, this sauce brings depth and warmth to the plate.
Butter sauce is made by gently browning butter until it takes on a golden hue. This process releases a nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the earthy, slightly peppery taste of sage leaves. Together, they create a sauce that is aromatic and deeply flavorful yet requires only a few basic ingredients.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday meal, this sage brown butter sauce is sure to impress. Its versatility allows it to complement a variety of ingredients, from creamy mashed potatoes to hearty squash dishes. The sage adds a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the other flavors.
This post provides a step-by-step recipe for making this delightful sauce, providing tips and tricks for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. With just a few minutes of preparation, this sauce can transform any dish into something extraordinary.
Sage Brown Butter Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 bunch sage finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons roasted almonds chopped
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prep the Ingredients
- Pick all the sage leaves off their stems, throw out the stems. Finely chop the sage leaves. Chop the almonds into rough pieces.
Prepare the sauce
- Deglaze the pan you cooked the chicken in with wine or chicken stock. Reduce the liquid to an essence.
- Add the butter to the pan with the released fond (sucs) and stir. If you feel chef-like, give the pan a swirl to keep the butter moving but stirring with a wooden spoon will accomplish the same end result.
- Continue cooking for a couple/few minutes until the butter is golden brown and gives off a wonderful, nutty fragrant smell. Be careful not to overcook the butter. You want it brown, not burn.
- Add the sage, roasted almonds and white wine vinegar being careful not to let the vinegar splatter. Continue cooking for 45 seconds, taking note to keep stirring. At this point, the sauce should be smelling amazing.
- Remove the pan from the heat, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve on top of the chicken, fish, or pork for an amazing meal.
Notes
When to Use a Sage Brown Butter Sauce
Sage brown butter sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition that can be used in a variety of dishes. Its rich, nutty taste complements both savory and slightly sweet dishes, making it a go-to sauce for elevating everyday meals or special occasions.
Here are some occasions when this sauce would be particularly fitting:
| Dish | Description | Why Sage Brown Butter Works |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut Squash Ravioli | Sweet, creamy ravioli filled with roasted butternut squash and ricotta or Parmesan. | The nutty butter and earthy sage balance the sweetness of the squash filling. |
| Gnocchi | Soft, pillowy potato dumplings often served with light sauces. | The rich brown butter coats the gnocchi beautifully, and sage adds a herbal contrast. |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Oven-roasted sprouts with crispy edges and tender centers. | Sage brown butter deepens the roasted flavor and adds a savory herbal note. |
| Pumpkin Soup | Silky smooth soup made from pureed pumpkin, often with warm spices. | A swirl of sage brown butter enhances the earthy sweetness and adds richness. |
| Pork Chops | Seared or roasted pork chops served simply or with apples. | The sage complements the pork’s flavor, and brown butter adds a toasty finish. |
| Roasted Sweet Potatoes | Caramelized sweet potatoes with crisped edges and soft centers. | Brown butter balances the natural sugars, while sage adds aromatic depth. |
| Pasta with Parmesan | Simple pasta tossed with grated cheese and minimal seasoning. | Sage brown butter creates a flavorful, elegant sauce without overpowering the cheese. |
Cooking Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your sage brown butter sauce turns out perfectly every time:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use Unsalted Butter | Starting with unsalted butter gives you more control over the salt level. Season to taste at the end. |
| Choose the Right Pan | A light-colored skillet helps you see the butter’s color as it browns, preventing burning. |
| Monitor Heat Carefully | Brown butter changes quickly. Use medium heat, stir occasionally, and look for a golden color and nutty aroma. |
| Use Fresh Sage Leaves | Fresh sage provides the best flavor. Lightly crush the leaves and add them after browning the butter. |
| Don’t Overcook the Butter | Remove from heat when golden brown and fragrant. Overcooking leads to a burnt taste. |
| Optional Add-ins | Add cream for richness, or lemon juice or Parmesan for complexity. |
| Serve Immediately | Brown butter sauce is best fresh. Store in the fridge and gently reheat before serving. |
With these tips, you can make a beautifully balanced sage brown butter sauce that enhances any dish.
