This creamy garlic butter salmon is a winner for dinner! The rich sauce, filled with garlic and butter, makes the salmon extra tasty and smooth. Plus, it cooks up in no time!
You know how some days you just need a fancy meal that’s actually easy? This is it! Serve with rice or veggies for a meal so good, you’ll feel like a chef without all the fuss! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for flavor and texture. If you can’t find salmon, trout or even tilapia can work as substitutes. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for this recipe. It allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use olive oil instead, although it won’t create quite the same creaminess.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but you’ll miss that aromatic kick! I love adding extra garlic for a stronger taste.
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could switch to half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you’re dairy-free. Just keep in mind it might not be as thick.
How Do I Get Perfectly Searing Salmon?
Searing salmon perfectly is key to a delicious dish. Follow these steps for great results:
- Start with a hot skillet to quickly seal the outside of the fish. This helps develop that beautiful golden crust.
- Pat your salmon dry before seasoning. This helps with browning. Use both salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the fillets in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough; this keeps the temperature consistent.
- Cook skin-side down first if your fillets have skin, around 3-4 minutes, then flip. Use a spatula to carefully turn the fish.
- Check for doneness. Salmon is ready when it easily flakes with a fork. It should be opaque but still moist.
Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or mixed herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty creamy garlic butter salmon takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps them sear better! Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked to your liking. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth or wine to deglaze the pan, stirring well to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. This adds great flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Add in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
Stir in the last tablespoon of butter and the chopped parsley. Take a moment to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. It should be rich and flavorful!
7. Bring Back the Salmon:
Return the salmon fillets back to the skillet, spoon some of that delicious sauce over them, and let everything warm through for about a minute. This ensures the salmon stays moist and flavorful.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salmon with the creamy garlic butter sauce drizzled over the top. It pairs beautifully with cooked rice or steamed veggies. Don’t forget to garnish with extra parsley for that fresh touch!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy garlic butter salmon! 😊
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
You can use either fresh or frozen salmon! If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Pat it dry for the best sear!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes in the sauce during cooking. They will add flavor, color, and extra nutrition to your dish!