Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
If you are craving a dish that delivers indulgence with every bite, you will fall head over heels for this Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe. It combines perfectly seared salmon fillets enveloped in a luxuriously rich, garlicky butter sauce that’s heightened by the zing of lemon and the subtle depth of parmesan. This recipe is not just straightforward; it creates a restaurant-quality meal you will eagerly want to make again and again. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the salmon, making every mouthful a comforting, flavorful delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this dish. Each component plays a vital role in creating the harmony of flavors and textures that make this recipe so special.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Fresh, high-quality salmon ensures tender and flavorful results every time.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for searing the salmon to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and the base for the creamy sauce.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a savory punch.
- ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine: Adds a subtle acidity and helps deglaze the pan for flavor-packed sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture of the sauce.
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty, salty complexity to the creaminess.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens the dish and balances richness with a fresh, citrusy note.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that lifts the sauce with earthy, savory flavors.
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat: Adds a subtle spicy kick if you like a little warmth.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Provides a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a light herbal finish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Salmon
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets liberally with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the salmon skin-side down and let it sear for 4 to 5 minutes until it develops a gorgeous golden crust. Flip carefully and cook the other side until just cooked through. Remove the fillets from the pan and set them aside, keeping all those flavorful browned bits in the pan for the sauce.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
In the same pan, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Stir it around and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant—this step fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Next, pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let it reduce by half, about 2 to 3 minutes, concentrating the flavors for a rich sauce base.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
Now for the magic: stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good mix and let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and all the flavors harmonize beautifully. For those who love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes right now and stir them through.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Return the salmon fillets to the pan, nestling them gently into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the salmon and let it simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to meld all the flavors perfectly. Before serving, garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens this dish beautifully, but you could also add a few lemon wedges on the side for those who want an extra burst of citrus. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes makes a lovely finishing touch too.
Side Dishes
This creamy salmon pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the sauce. Think fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy risotto, or even buttery garlic bread. For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a fresh mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the rich sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, plate the salmon over a bed of creamy polenta or wilted spinach. Drizzle extra sauce around the plate for that restaurant-worthy look. You can also serve it on a large platter with sides arranged artfully for a family-style meal that invites everyone to dive in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, keep the salmon separate from the sauce if possible, then combine when reheating.
Freezing
While salmon tends to be best fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon in its sauce if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat, spooning the sauce over the top to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating helps refresh the sauce’s creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even searing and the best texture in your Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, though the sauce will be less thick and creamy compared to heavy cream.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan for a similar cheesy flavor.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the garlicky butter sauce without overwhelming it. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference or omit entirely.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
While you can prepare the sauce ahead, it’s best to keep it refrigerated separately and gently reheat with the salmon to maintain that fresh, creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe is truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. It hits all the right notes with buttery richness, bright garlic, and tender flaky salmon, making it a wonderfully comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Once you try it, this recipe will likely become a cherished favorite in your home kitchen, guaranteed to impress family and friends alike.
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Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a rich and flavorful dish that combines perfectly seared salmon fillets with a luscious garlic butter cream sauce. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick yet indulgent dinner that promises a delightful balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until the fish is golden and just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Build the Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Allow the liquid to reduce by half, which should take about 2–3 minutes.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Finish & Serve: Return the seared salmon fillets to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer gently for another 1–2 minutes to meld the flavors and reheat the salmon. Garnish with fresh parsley and add red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream and parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, respectively.
- Ensure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- If using wine, opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for best flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and taste.
- To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes during the sauce simmering step.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
