Little Caesars–Inspired Garlic Butter with Parmesan

This homemade garlic butter combines softened butter, fresh garlic, Parmesan, olive oil, and lemon juice. It is a thick spread for breadsticks and pizza crusts, inspired by pizza-shop flavors. It is not Little Caesars’ official sauce formula, and the Parmesan and fresh garlic give it a different texture from a smooth commercial dipping sauce.

Ingredients and preparation

Use 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 4 finely minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan-style cheese, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper. If using salted butter, start without the extra salt and taste after mixing.

You will need a bowl, whisk or fork, measuring spoons, and a fine grater. Butter should be soft enough to stir easily, with no melted pool around it. Finely grate the cheese and mince the garlic so neither leaves large pieces in the spread.

How to make the garlic butter

Beat the softened butter until smooth. Stir in the garlic and cheese, scraping the bowl to distribute them evenly. Add the olive oil slowly while stirring, then work in the lemon juice a little at a time. Finish with salt and pepper to taste.

The result should be spreadable rather than completely liquid. The small pieces of fresh garlic and Parmesan are expected; whisking will not dissolve them.

How to adjust the texture

If the mixture is too firm straight from the refrigerator, soften only the portion you plan to use. Do not add extra liquid just to compensate for cold butter.

For a less chunky result, use the ingredient-table substitution of 1 teaspoon garlic powder in place of fresh garlic and grate the cheese very finely. The flavor will be milder and less sharp. A cheese-free version will also have a different texture from the recipe shown here.

Serving ideas

Spread a thin layer over warm breadsticks or brush it onto a hot pizza crust. Start lightly: garlic, cheese, and added salt can become overpowering when applied in a thick layer. For roasted vegetables, add a small spoonful after cooking and toss while they are warm.

For dipping, serve a small portion slightly softened. Heating it until fully melted may separate the oil and butter, so stir gently and expect a thinner finish.

Storage and leftovers

Refrigerate promptly in a covered container and use within 3 days. Keep at 40°F (4°C) or below. Use a clean spoon to take out a portion and avoid leaving the full container on the table during a meal.

The fresh garlic and cheese make this a perishable homemade spread. Do not store it at room temperature. Reheat only what you need; if the texture separates, stir it as it cools slightly.

Related recipes

See the recipe index for more sauces, sides, and family meals.