Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon is a dish that has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, and for good reason! The rich, velvety sauce combined with the tender, flaky salmon creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. This recipe not only highlights the natural taste of the salmon but also elevates it with the aromatic essence of garlic and the luxurious touch of butter. Historically, salmon has been a staple in various cultures, particularly in coastal regions where fresh fish is abundant. Its versatility and health benefits have made it a beloved choice for generations.

People adore Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon for its delightful taste and creamy texture, making it a perfect dish for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. The convenience of preparing this dish in under 30 minutes is an added bonus, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without the fuss. Whether served over a bed of rice or alongside seasonal vegetables, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Join me as we dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Salmon

1. **Season the Salmon**: Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. I like to use a good amount of salt to enhance the flavor of the fish. 2. **Heat the Pan**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking. This is crucial for getting that beautiful golden crust on the salmon. 3. **Sear the Salmon**: Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down if they have skin. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when the edges start to turn golden brown and the fish releases easily from the pan. 4. **Flip the Fillets**: Using a spatula, gently flip the salmon fillets over. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Making the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

5. **Melt the Butter**: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any brown bits left from the salmon. These bits add incredible flavor to the sauce. 6. **Sauté the Garlic**: Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden. 7. **Add Herbs**: Stir in the dried thyme and parsley. If you’re using fresh herbs, add them a little later to keep their vibrant color and flavor. Cook for another 30 seconds to let the herbs infuse their flavor into the butter. 8. **Pour in the Cream**: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. This will help to combine the cream with the butter and garlic, creating a luscious sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. 9. **Add Parmesan Cheese**: Once the cream is simmering, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or more cream to reach your desired consistency. 10. **Finish with Lemon Juice**: Squeeze in the juice of one lemon, stirring to combine. This adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Assembling the Dish

11. **Return the Salmon to the Skillet**: Gently place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the salmon to coat it well. Let it simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat the salmon through and allow it to absorb some of the sauce flavors. 12. **Garnish and Serve**: Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the salmon fillets to serving plates, spooning extra sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

13. **Pairing Options**: This creamy garlic butter salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with steamed asparagus or broccoli for a healthy touch. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. 14. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store the salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The combination of rich, buttery flavors with the subtle kick of garlic creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing the salmon with a side of roasted asparagus or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try variations like adding a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist or incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Cooking is all about sharing and enjoying, so let’s spread the love for this amazing recipe together! Print