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Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe offers a rich and flavorful seafood dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Pan-seared salmon fillets are enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce with cream, parmesan, and a hint of lemon, creating an irresistible meal that’s both elegant and comforting.


Ingredients

Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Sear the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and crisp. Flip and cook the other side for another 4–5 minutes until just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth or dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Allow the liquid to reduce by half, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally. Add red pepper flakes if you want to add some heat.
  4. Finish & Serve: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld and the salmon gets reheated gently. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use chicken broth or dry white wine depending on your preference; both add distinct flavors.
  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Be careful not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice kick to the creamy sauce.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.