This creamy garlic butter salmon is the perfect weeknight treat. It’s rich, flavorful, and cooks up quickly, making dinner a breeze!
Honestly, who can resist a dish that basically screams comfort food? I love serving this with some veggies on the side. It’s a yummy way to sneak in healthy eats!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a different flavor, feel free to use trout or even tilapia. Both are good options and cook similarly!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over saltiness. If you’re watching your dairy intake, use vegan butter or olive oil instead. It will change the flavor a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk if you’re dairy-free. Just note that coconut milk will give a subtle coconut flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: The cheese adds a lovely umami flavor. If you want a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute! It won’t melt the same way, but it’ll still add a wonderful taste.
How Do You Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky, but following these tips will help. Start by heating your skillet until it’s hot, then add the salmon. This sears the outside and locks in moisture.
- Cook the salmon skin side down first for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. A good rule of thumb is to cook it 8-10 minutes per inch of thickness.
- Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is lightly pink in the center.
Letting it rest for a minute after cooking helps it retain moisture. Enjoy your perfectly cooked salmon!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic butter salmon recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, so the total is around 25 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Salmon:
First things first! Generously season the salmon fillets on both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This will give the salmon a great flavor base.
2. Searing the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Adding Broth or Wine:
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This adds depth to your sauce!
5. Pouring in the Cream:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens a bit.
6. Finishing Touches:
Add the lemon juice, chopped parsley, and red chili flakes if you want a little heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary—maybe a bit more salt or pepper?
7. Reintroducing the Salmon:
Carefully return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the creamy garlic butter sauce over the top, letting the salmon warm through for about 1-2 minutes.
8. Serving:
Serve your delicious salmon hot, drizzled with the creamy garlic butter sauce and garnished with extra parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad!
Enjoy your creamy garlic butter salmon and the satisfied faces around the dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the fridge overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quick thaw.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option. Keep in mind that coconut milk will impart a subtle coconut flavor, so choose what suits your taste best!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the salmon again!
What Can I Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon?
This dish goes wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables also make a great side, adding a nice crunch and color to your meal!