This creamy garlic butter salmon is a treat for your taste buds! The salmon is perfectly cooked and covered in a rich garlic butter sauce that is just divine.
Honestly, my family can’t get enough of this dish. It’s so easy to make, and who doesn’t love a little garlic butter magic? Serve it with veggies or pasta for a complete meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Salmon fillets are rich in flavor and good fats. You can use skin-on for extra crispness or skin-off for a tender bite. If you prefer another fish, try trout or even chicken breast for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. Just remember, it might alter the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a bold flavor. In a pinch, you can substitute with garlic powder; however, fresh garlic gives you that rich aroma and taste that’s hard to beat!
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice here. If you’re trying to cut calories, you can switch it with olive oil, but it won’t lend quite as rich of a flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely depth. For a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast works well and gives a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon to perfection can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! The key is to avoid overcooking it. Follow these steps:
- Start with a hot skillet for that nice sear to lock in moisture. Wait until the oil is shimmering.
- Cook skin-side down for the best crispiness. Allow it to cook halfway up the side before flipping.
- Use medium heat after flipping, so the inside cooks gently. A total cook time of about 6-8 minutes is ideal for medium doneness.
- Check with a fork or thermometer: it should flake easily and register 125°F for medium.
With these tips, your salmon will come out flaky and tender every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin on or off based on preference
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or low sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy garlic butter salmon takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. With all the flavors melding together quickly, you’ll have a tasty dinner on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is where the flavor begins!
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if you kept the skin on). Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is nice and crisp. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through but still moist inside. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown!
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to lift any tasty browned bits left from the salmon. This adds even more flavor to your sauce!
5. Stir in Flavor Boosters:
Add the lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), and Parmesan cheese (if desired). Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens a bit. Stir it occasionally and enjoy that amazing aroma!
6. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and taste the sauce; season it with additional salt and pepper if needed. Fresh herbs brighten up the flavors!
7. Combine and Warm:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of that creamy sauce over the top. Let everything warm together for a minute so the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the salmon fillets and ladle the creamy garlic butter sauce over the top. Serve with lemon wedges, perfect for squeezing on top just before eating. This dish goes great with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your delightful creamy garlic butter salmon! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for any night of the week! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quick thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the thickness and flavor will vary slightly with each substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out.
What Sides Pair Well with Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over pasta, rice, or quinoa. Steamed or roasted vegetables, asparagus, or a fresh salad are also great options to complement the creamy flavors.
