If you are looking for a delicious and fuss-free dinner option, you absolutely must try this Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe. It combines tender, flaky salmon fillets with a luscious, herb-infused Boursin cheese topping that melts beautifully in the oven. The result is a restaurant-worthy salmon dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to pull together, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet work together to create a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors in the dish. Each one brings its own magic, from the creamy Boursin cheese to the fresh zing of lemon.
- 4 salmon fillets (5-6 oz each): Fresh, skinless fillets are ideal for even cooking and a flaky texture.
- 1 Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese (5.2 oz): This soft cheese adds a rich, creamy, and herbaceous flavor key to the recipe’s signature taste.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps keep the salmon moist and adds a subtle fruity depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses savory notes that enhance the cheese topping and salmon.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese and fish.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: The zest delivers an additional burst of citrus fragrance on the surface of the salmon.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the herbs without overpowering.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): A sprinkle at the end adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional): Perfect for guests who love an extra splash of citrus with each bite.
How to Make Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To make cleanup a breeze and prevent the salmon from sticking, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your salmon slides right off when it’s perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Prepare Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels—this little trick helps the fish roast beautifully instead of steaming. Season each piece evenly on both sides with the salt and pepper. Then comes the star of the dish: spread the softened Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese over the top of each fillet generously. To elevate the flavors, zest a teaspoon of fresh lemon directly onto the cheese. This combination will create a fragrant, creamy topping that melts into the salmon during baking.
Step 3: Arrange & Bake
Carefully place the cheese-topped salmon fillets on one side of the parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the salmon—this not only adds flavor but helps achieve that inviting golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 18 minutes. You’ll know your fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The Boursin cheese will be melted to bubbly perfection with just a touch of golden color on top.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Once out of the oven, immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot salmon for a bright, fresh finish that cuts through the richness. If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a gorgeous splash of green and make the dish feel even more vibrant. Let the salmon rest on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes to let all those flavors settle before transferring each fillet to your serving plates. Don’t forget to offer lemon wedges on the side for anyone who loves an extra spritz of citrus.
How to Serve Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of chopped fresh parsley really lifts the dish with its bright green hue and fresh herby taste. Lemon wedges are a no-brainer, adding an optional tangy burst when squeezed over the fish. For those who like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant surprise of spice that plays beautifully against the creamy cheese topping.
Side Dishes
Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think light and fresh, like a crisp mixed green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, or roasted seasonal vegetables that bring their own natural sweetness. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy quinoa work beautifully to soak up any extra juices and complement the rich salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party flair, serve the salmon fillets individually plated with a drizzle of herbed olive oil around the edge and a small sprig of fresh dill atop. You can also serve the salmon on a bed of sautéed spinach or nestled atop creamy cauliflower puree for an elegant twist. The vibrant colors of the Boursin cheese melt and fresh lemon zest make plating a joy to showcase.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe keeps well for up to 2 days, and storing it correctly helps maintain the vibrant flavors and moist texture.
Freezing
While freshly baked salmon tastes best, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. For best quality, consume frozen salmon within 1 month.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven (about 275°F/135°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can toughen the salmon and affect the delicate Boursin topping’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Boursin?
While Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs is key to the signature flavor, you can experiment with other herb-infused cheeses or cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs. Just remember that Boursin melts beautifully and has a unique richness that complements salmon perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Since it stores well in the fridge, you can make a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Just be mindful to reheat gently to keep the texture intact.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Dry salmon ensures better roasting and allows the Boursin topping to melt evenly.
What if I don’t have lemon zest on hand?
If you don’t have lemon zest, you can use a little extra lemon juice or a tiny pinch of lemon pepper seasoning. The zest adds a bright aromatic note, but the lemon juice still brings good acidity and freshness.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, try substituting the Boursin with a vegan herb cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind it may alter the texture and flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious when seasoned well.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like a treat but comes together effortlessly. It’s fresh, comforting, and rich without being heavy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon, whether for a quick weeknight supper or a special occasion. Once baked, the flavors melt harmoniously, making every bite a delight you’ll want to savor again and again.
Print
Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Simple Baked Boursin Salmon is an easy and flavorful dinner idea featuring tender salmon fillets topped with creamy Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese, baked to perfection with a hint of lemon and garlic. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels special.
Ingredients
Salmon & Cheese
- 4 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each)
- 1 Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese (5.2 oz)
Seasonings & Garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Salmon: Thoroughly pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they roast properly. Season both sides evenly with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Spread the softened Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese generously over the top of each fillet. Then, zest 1 tsp of fresh lemon directly over the cheese-topped salmon for added brightness.
- Arrange & Bake: Place the prepared salmon fillets carefully on one side of the parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle 2 tbsp olive oil evenly over the salmon. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 18 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork at its thickest part or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The Boursin cheese should be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Finish & Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and squeeze 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice over the hot salmon to infuse a bright citrus flavor. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley if desired, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Allow the salmon to rest for 2 to 3 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring each fillet to plates. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning to help the cheese and seasonings stick better and encourage even cooking.
- You can substitute Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese with another flavored soft cheese, but the garlic-herb flavor is key to this recipe’s distinctive taste.
- For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like dill or chives instead of parsley if preferred.
- Check the salmon’s doneness starting at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking; salmon is best when moist and flaky.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
