Do Share Recipe

Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe | Rich, Flaky & Delicious

I absolutely love salmon, and whenever I make this creamy garlic butter salmon, it feels like a restaurant-quality dish at home. The moment the buttery garlic aroma fills my kitchen, I know dinner is going to be amazing. I’ve tried many salmon recipes, including rich dishes like Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe, but this one is my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend meal.

The creamy sauce complements the salmon perfectly, making every bite rich and flavorful. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that impresses everyone without requiring a ton of effort.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy garlic butter salmon. Each ingredient is chosen to enhance flavor and texture.

Salmon fillets (4 pieces, 6 oz each) – Fresh, skin-on salmon works best for a crispy finish.
Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances the natural flavor of the salmon.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds mild heat and balances the richness.
Garlic cloves (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic provides a strong, aromatic flavor.
Unsalted butter (4 tbsp) – Butter creates the creamy, luxurious sauce.
Heavy cream (1 cup) – Full-fat cream gives a smooth, silky texture.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds depth.
Lemon juice (2 tbsp) – Brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Olive oil (1 tbsp) – Helps sear the salmon evenly without sticking.
Optional: Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp) – For a hint of spice.

Note: Several servings

Variations

You can easily tweak this recipe to suit different preferences:

Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and a vegan butter alternative.
Low-fat: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt (added off heat to avoid curdling).
Flavor-enhancing add-ins: Try a splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
Herb twist: Swap parsley with dill or thyme for a different herbal note. You can also enjoy similar quick sandwiches like the Chicken Pesto Sandwich Recipe alongside your salmon for a complete meal.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – For searing salmon and cooking sauce in one pan.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Knife and cutting board – For chopping garlic and herbs.
Spatula or tongs – To turn salmon without breaking it.
Grater – For fresh Parmesan cheese.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe?

Preparing the Salmon

I like to pat my salmon dry and season it generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures the fillets sear properly, giving a crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Searing the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice, stirring until smooth. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combining Salmon and Sauce

Return the salmon to the pan and spoon the creamy sauce over the fillets. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I always use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced – it makes a huge flavor difference.
Patting the salmon dry is key; it helps achieve a crisp skin that I love.
I like to add the lemon juice at the end to preserve its bright, fresh taste.
Simmer the sauce gently to avoid separating the cream and butter.
Don’t overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but remain moist in the center.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe?

Serving this salmon is all about presentation and pairing:

Place the salmon over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the sauce.
Drizzle extra sauce on top for a glossy, indulgent look.
Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Serve with roasted vegetables or a light side salad for balance.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 450 kcal – This is a rich, satisfying meal.
Protein: 34 g – Salmon provides high-quality protein.
Carbohydrates: 4 g – Minimal carbs, mostly from cream and cheese.
Fat: 33 g – Healthy fats from butter, salmon, and cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

I usually store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing

While I prefer fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon. Wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.

Reheating

I reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to prevent the sauce from breaking. Microwaving works but can make the salmon slightly dry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

If you’re wondering why this creamy garlic butter salmon should be your next dinner, here’s why:

Quick and Easy: I can have it ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The creamy sauce and perfectly seared salmon impress everyone.
Versatile: I can easily swap herbs or make it dairy-free without losing flavor.
Nutritious: High in protein and omega-3s, it’s a healthy indulgence.
Customizable: I can adjust spice, garlic, or creaminess to my taste.

This creamy garlic butter salmon recipe is simple, elegant, and irresistibly delicious. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, it never fails to impress. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Ben Carraoli