Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The flaky, tender salmon pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce, making it an irresistible meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce 10 Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The flaky, tender salmon pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce, making it an irresistible meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Salmon fillets
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Butter
  • Heavy cream
  • Lemon juice
  • Garlic, minced
  • Chicken broth
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Place the salmon fillets in the dish and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  5. Add chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. If using, stir in grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
  8. Remove the salmon from the oven and drizzle the lemon butter cream sauce over the top.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
  • Garlic Butter Version: Increase the garlic and add extra butter for a bolder flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Herb-Infused: Add fresh dill or thyme for a fragrant, herbaceous touch.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon without the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw and add the sauce when reheating.
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce 11 Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The flaky, tender salmon pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce, making it an irresistible meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.


FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it before baking for even cooking.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low to medium heat and stir continuously when adding cream.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half or coconut milk works as an alternative.

What’s the best side dish for this recipe?

Steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice pair wonderfully.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flake easily.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?

Yes! Sear the salmon in a pan over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store the sauce separately in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Can I add lemon zest for extra flavor?

Absolutely! A little lemon zest enhances the citrusy taste.

Can I make this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, this dish is naturally keto-friendly when paired with low-carb sides.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, trout, halibut, or cod work well with this sauce.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this creamy, citrusy salmon will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Print
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Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Perfectly baked salmon topped with a creamy, buttery lemon sauce—simple yet elegant and packed with flavor!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • 1. Bake the Salmon
  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Season the salmon: Place salmon fillets on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Top with lemon slices.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  • 2. Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
  • While the salmon bakes, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce thicken for about 3 minutes.
  • If using Parmesan, stir it in now until melted.
  • 3. Serve
  • Remove the salmon from the oven and drizzle with the lemon butter cream sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides, like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Notes

  • :
  • For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for the heavy cream.
  • Want extra crispy salmon? Broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
  • Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and olive oil instead of butter.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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