If you have a soft spot for salmon that’s bursting with flavor and wrapped in a luscious sauce, you’re going to adore this Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe. It’s a gorgeous blend of flaky, tender salmon fillets swimming in a rich and velvety garlic butter sauce with a hint of tangy lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This dish brings that perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to salmon dishes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building that irresistible creamy garlic butter flavor and getting the salmon just right in texture and color.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Look for fresh, skin-on fillets for the best sear and moist flesh.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural salmon flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps achieve a beautifully crisp skin without sticking.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds that rich, creamy base for the sauce.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings the sauce to life with aromatic, savory notes.
- ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine: Provides depth and acidity, perfect for balancing the creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent texture that defines the sauce.
- â…“ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds umami and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements both salmon and creamy sauce perfectly.
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat: A dash if you want a little extra kick.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and color contrast.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Salmon
Begin by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the salmon skin-side down and let it cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes. This will give you a beautifully golden and crispy skin. Flip the fillets and cook the other side for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through but still moist and tender. Remove the fillets from the pan and set them aside for now.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Using the same skillet (don’t worry about those delicious browned bits on the bottom), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant — this step infuses the butter with savory garlic goodness. Next, pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, scraping the pan gently to loosen the flavorful bits. Let this mixture reduce by half over a couple of minutes, concentrating all that lovely flavor.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
Now for the magic moment. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Stir carefully and let the sauce gently simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and get that rich, velvety texture you’re craving.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon generous amounts of the creamy garlic butter sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for a minute or two so the salmon soaks up the sauce flavors. Finally, sprinkle with fresh parsley to add a punch of color and freshness before serving hot and enjoying every bite.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic garnish that complements the rich cream sauce perfectly by adding brightness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes also works beautifully to give the dish a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Side Dishes
This creamy garlic butter salmon pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce, steamed asparagus or green beans for crispness, or a simple mixed green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the salmon on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside fluffy cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Drizzle extra sauce over the plate for that restaurant-quality look. Garnishing with lemon wedges and a few sprigs of parsley turns this dish into a real showstopper guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover salmon and creamy sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. Keeping the sauce and salmon together helps maintain flavor and moisture.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the creamy sauce may change slightly. If freezing, place the salmon fillets and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen, it will keep for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat to avoid breaking the sauce. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce needs loosening. Avoid microwave reheating for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for the best texture and even cooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half can work, though the sauce may be less rich and slightly different in flavor.
Is it necessary to use the skin on the salmon?
Using skin-on salmon helps create a crisp texture and keeps the fillet moist, but you can remove the skin if you prefer. Just be gentler when flipping the fish to avoid breaking it apart.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! Adding red pepper flakes while cooking the sauce is a great way to introduce some heat without overpowering the creamy, garlicky flavors.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque throughout but still tender and moist. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye during searing.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe is truly a treasure when you want restaurant-quality taste with minimal fuss. It combines comforting textures and bold flavors that feel special but come together quickly. I urge you to give this recipe a try — it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy salmon any night of the week!
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a rich, easy-to-make dish featuring tender salmon fillets seared to perfection and topped with a luscious garlic butter cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe combines silky heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon for a flavorful and indulgent experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- â…“ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the fillets and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let the liquid reduce by half, which should take 2 to 3 minutes.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it has thickened slightly to a creamy consistency.
- Finish & Serve: Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic butter sauce over them. Let the salmon simmer in the sauce for 1 to 2 minutes to reheat and meld flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan cheese.
- You can substitute chicken broth with dry white wine or vegetable broth according to preference.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes during the sauce preparation.
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry; it should be opaque and flaky.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a side of pasta.
