Alla Diavola Butter (Spicy Compound Butter)
Alla Diavola Butter (Spicy Compound Butter)
If you love bold, spicy flavors, this Alla Diavola Butter is about to become your new favorite kitchen staple. Inspired by the Italian “alla diavola” style—meaning devilishly spicy—this compound butter combines smoky paprika, chile flakes, black pepper, and tangy pepperoncini for a rich, fiery finish.
Perfect for steaks, chicken, seafood, and even vegetables, this butter melts into a flavorful sauce that instantly upgrades any dish.
What Is Alla Diavola Butter?
“Alla diavola” translates to “devil style” in Italian, typically referring to dishes that are:
- Spicy
- Bold and smoky
- Packed with pepper and chile heat
This butter captures all of that in a creamy, spreadable form that melts beautifully over hot food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in 10 minutes
Bold, spicy flavor
Perfect for grilling
Freezer-friendly
Restaurant-quality finish
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried chile flakes
- 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pepperoncini (patted dry)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
How to Make Alla Diavola Butter
- Place softened butter in a mixing bowl.
- Add paprika, chile flakes, black pepper, salt, pepperoncini, and hot sauce.
- Mix with a spoon or spatula until fully combined.
- Spoon onto parchment paper or plastic wrap.
- Roll into a tight log shape.
- Chill for at least 1 hour until firm.
Slice and serve.
How to Use Alla Diavola Butter
This spicy butter melts into a rich sauce that works on almost anything.
Best Uses:
- Grilled steak (skirt, flank, ribeye)
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Burgers (inside or on top)
- Seafood (shrimp, scallops, fish)
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled bread
- Pasta finish
Pro Chef Tips
Control the Heat:
Reduce chile flakes for milder flavor or increase for extra spice.
Pat Pepperoncini Dry:
Too much moisture can affect texture—dry them before mixing.
Use at the End:
Add slices on hot food right before serving so it melts perfectly.
Storage
Refrigerator:
- Up to 3 months.
Freezer:
- Up to 1 year.
Slice directly from frozen when needed.
More Ways to Use It
- Stuff inside chicken breasts before roasting
- Swirl into tomato soup for heat and richness
- Spread over grilled meats for an instant sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is Alla Diavola Butter?
It ranges from medium to hot depending on chile flakes and hot sauce.
Can I make it less spicy?
Yes, reduce chile flakes and hot sauce.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just reduce added salt.
What does it taste like?
Rich, smoky, tangy, and spicy with a balanced heat.
Final Thoughts
This Alla Diavola Butter is the perfect combination of heat, richness, and bold flavor. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or finishing a dish, this spicy compound butter delivers a chef-level upgrade with minimal effort.
Alla Diavola Butter (Spicy Italian Compound Butter Recipe)
