This creamy garlic butter salmon is a treat! Juicy salmon fillets are cooked to perfection and then smothered in a rich and tasty garlic butter sauce. Yum!
Honestly, I can’t resist the fragrant smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen. Serve it with some rice or veggies, and you’ve got a meal worth bragging about! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for this dish. If you can’t find fresh, frozen salmon works too! Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. For a different flavor, you could also use trout or another firm fish.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil instead. The flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings tons of flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove. Just note that fresh garlic has a stronger taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. The sauce will be less rich but still very tasty!
Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth if you’re looking for a lighter option or substituting for dietary reasons. White wine is also a great alternative that adds a nice depth of flavor.
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking salmon can seem tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! Start by drying the salmon to get a nice sear. Season generously with salt and pepper. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon, which helps create that sought-after golden crust.
- Cook skin-side down first to help protect the meat and create a barrier against overcooking.
- Watch the color change: cook until it’s about two-thirds done, then flip it. It should develop a golden-brown crust.
- This will take about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (or 63°C).
- Let it rest for a minute before serving—this allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the salmon moist.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine for a little tang)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Salmon
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a beautiful sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Salmon
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until a rich golden crust forms. Then, flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked to your preference. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely before adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—be sure not to let it burn as that will affect the sauce’s taste. Next, stir in the chicken broth (or white wine), scraping the bottom of the pan to pick up any tasty bits left from cooking the salmon.
4. Add Creaminess
Add the heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the chopped parsley into the skillet. Mix everything well and let it simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
5. Combine and Serve
Carefully return the cooked salmon fillets to the pan, spooning the creamy garlic butter sauce over them. Let them warm through for another minute. Once everything is heated and combined, it’s time to serve!
6. Enjoy!
Garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve alongside steamed asparagus or your favorite side dish. It’s time to dig into your delicious, creamy garlic butter salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen salmon, make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or using a quick method by submerging it in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure a perfect sear.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it again.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or rich, but it’ll still be delicious!
What Sides Pair Well with This Dish?
For a great pairing, serve the salmon with steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a light salad. You can also serve it over rice, quinoa, or pasta to soak up the delectable garlic butter sauce!
