Description
When you’re craving a luxurious yet easy meal, this Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon is the answer! Tender, flaky salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce with a touch of lemon and fresh herbs. It’s elegant, packed with flavor, and ready in just about 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner at home.
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Ingredients
For the Salmon:
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4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
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1 tsp lemon zest
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tbsp fresh basil or thyme, chopped (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
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Lemon slices
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Extra chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the broth and scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Simmer gently, stirring often, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Return the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets back into the skillet.
Spoon the creamy garlic butter sauce over the salmon.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional herbs if desired.
Serve with lemon slices on the side.
Notes
Pat the Salmon Dry – Helps it sear beautifully and prevents sticking.
Don’t Overcook – Salmon is best when it’s just cooked through and still tender.
Simmer Sauce Gently – Avoid boiling the cream to keep it smooth and silky.
Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor.
Adjust the Creaminess – Add a splash more broth if the sauce gets too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American