Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that I keep coming back to, not only because it’s delicious but also because it’s incredibly easy to make. The salmon comes out tender and flaky, while the creamy, garlicky lemon sauce adds a burst of freshness that brightens up any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

I love serving this salmon with a side of roasted veggies or fluffy rice to soak up that luscious sauce. The best part? You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep your ingredients earlier in the day for an even smoother cooking process.
• Rich and Flavorful: The creamy lemon butter sauce is rich without being overwhelming, enhancing the natural taste of the salmon.
• Versatile Side Options: Pair it with almost any side dish you love—it’s adaptable to your family’s favorite flavors!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this recipe accessible for everyone. Gather these tasty components, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a delightful dinner.

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard

For the Salmon

• 5 skinless salmon fillets (about 5 oz./150 grams each)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt (to taste)

For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
• 1-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
• 1 tablespoon parsley (finely chopped)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Lemon slices for serving

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some ideas to switch things up!

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try this recipe with trout or chicken for a delightful alternative.
• Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your sauce an exciting kick if you enjoy heat!
• Vegetable boost: Toss in some sautéed spinach or asparagus into the mix for added nutrition and flavor.
• Try a different herb: Fresh dill or thyme can replace parsley for an interesting flavor twist.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F /220°C with the rack positioned in the center. This high temperature helps achieve that perfectly flaky salmon texture we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons of old-style Dijon mustard. Mix well until everything blends together nicely. This marinade will infuse your salmon with flavor!

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place your skinless salmon fillets into a skillet. Pour the marinade over them and gently rub it in. Season with ½ teaspoon ground black pepper and salt to taste. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes until cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While your salmon bakes away, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Add in 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves and sauté until they become fragrant—this step adds depth to your sauce!

Step 5: Add Creamy Goodness

Pour in ½ cup heavy cream and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally; you’ll notice it thickening slightly which is exactly what we want!

Step 6: Finish Off Your Sauce

Remove from heat and stir in any optional lemon juice if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley along with an extra dash of ground black pepper and salt as needed. This final touch elevates your sauce beautifully.

Step 7: Combine & Rest

Once your salmon is done baking, pour that heavenly sauce over each fillet. Allow them to rest for about 5-10 minutes—this helps all those flavors settle together.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately with fresh lemon slices on the side for an extra zing! Enjoy every bite of this delicious Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce—it truly is comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Getting the perfect baked salmon with a creamy sauce is easy with a few helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh salmon: Fresh salmon fillets not only taste better but also have a firmer texture, ensuring they hold up well during baking. Look for bright, firm flesh when buying.
• Don’t overbake: Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for tender, flaky fish. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your liking! Adding herbs like dill or tarragon can complement the lemon and garlic flavors beautifully.
• Let it rest: Allowing the baked salmon to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven helps redistribute the juices, keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Make it ahead: If you’re planning a dinner party, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat gently before serving. This makes meal prep a breeze!

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Presentation is key when serving this delicious dish! Here are some delightful ways to make your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only adds color but freshness that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Lemon zest: Grating some fresh lemon zest on top enhances the citrus flavor and adds an aromatic touch that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs perfectly with salmon’s richness.
• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus lightly seasoned and steamed retains its crunch and adds a fresh element to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a healthy twist and balances out the dish’s creaminess.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that complements the lemon butter cream sauce beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only impress your guests but also create a memorable meal that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste and freshness.
• Reheat gently to preserve the flaky texture of the salmon.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, followed by a layer of freezer-safe bag.
• The baked salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?

You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs such as dill or basil, or even including capers for a briny touch. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings!

Can I use other types of fish for this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce recipe?

Absolutely! This creamy sauce pairs well with other fish like trout or halibut. Just adjust cooking times according to the thickness of the fish fillets.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?

Yes! You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option. Both will still provide a creamy texture without compromising flavor.

What should I serve with my Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?

This dish goes well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The bright flavors complement a variety of sides beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce! It’s a meal that brings comfort and satisfaction while being simple enough for any weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with family and friends. Happy cooking!