Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The tender, flaky salmon paired with a creamy, zesty sauce creates a delightful combination that feels special yet is easy enough for any weeknight dinner. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish will surely become a favorite in your home.

Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, the best part? You can whip it up in about 30 minutes! Perfect for busy nights or when you want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have dinner ready in no time. Perfect for those hectic weeknights!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves salmon, and the creamy sauce takes it to the next level. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You probably have most of these simple ingredients on hand already, making it easy to prepare whenever cravings strike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering, this recipe fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, you’ll need some simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard
• 5 skinless salmon fillets (about 5 oz./150 grams each)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt (to taste)

For the 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

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: If salmon isn’t your thing, try using skinless chicken breasts or even firm tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add veggies: Mix in some spinach or cherry tomatoes into the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: Instead of parsley, use fresh dill or basil for a different twist on flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat!

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) with the rack in the center. This ensures even cooking and helps develop that lovely flaky texture we all love in baked salmon.

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. Mixing these ingredients well creates a flavorful marinade that will soak into your salmon and keep it moist during baking.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place your skinless salmon fillets into a skillet and pour the marinade over them. Gently rub it in to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Season with ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper and salt according to your taste. Bake these beauties in your preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes until they’re perfectly cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

While your salmon bakes away, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Once melted, add 1 ½ tablespoons of minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds. It’s crucial not to overcook the garlic; we want it aromatic but not burnt!

Step 5: Add Heavy Cream

Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream (or half and half), stirring gently as you bring it to a boil. This step is important because as it heats up, the sauce thickens slightly and becomes luxuriously creamy.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in any additional lemon juice if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and season with another sprinkle of ground black pepper and salt to suit your taste.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Pour that delicious lemon butter cream sauce over your baked salmon fillets once they’re out of the oven. Allow them to rest for about 5-10 minutes—this helps lock in moisture! Serve with fresh lemon slices on the side for an extra splash of flavor.

With these easy steps, you’ll have an impressive meal that’s sure to wow everyone around your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Creating the perfect Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is easy if you keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh salmon and freshly squeezed lemon juice will enhance the flavors of your dish significantly. Freshness makes a world of difference when it comes to taste and aroma.
• Don’t overbake the salmon: Keep an eye on your salmon while it’s in the oven. Overcooking can lead to dry fish, so aim for that tender, flaky texture by checking for doneness after 10 minutes.
• Adjust the sauce to your liking: Feel free to tweak the amount of garlic or lemon juice in the sauce based on your personal preference. This allows you to customize the recipe to suit your taste buds.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the salmon to rest after baking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful bite. It also gives you time to prepare your sides!
• Experiment with herbs: Adding different herbs like dill or thyme can give a unique twist to your dish. These fresh flavors complement salmon beautifully and add a touch of sophistication.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Serving this delectable dish is just as important as preparing it! Here are some delightful ideas for presenting your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds vibrant color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra zing. Guests can squeeze more lemon juice on their salmon if they desire.
• Capers: A few capers can add a briny flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich cream sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting side that’s perfect for soaking up the delicious lemon butter cream sauce.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant green color, making it an excellent complement to the richness of salmon.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon provides a light and healthy contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds nutritional value but also offers a lovely crunch that balances out the meal’s richness.

Enjoy crafting this beautiful meal! Your guests will be impressed by both the presentation and flavors of this delightful recipe.

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 the flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If possible, keep the sauce separate until ready to serve to maintain the texture.

Freezing

• Allow the baked salmon to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• For best quality, consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Gently reheat the lemon butter cream sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half and half or even a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

How do I know when my Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is done?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?

Yes, you can! Just ensure to thaw it properly before cooking. Frozen salmon may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

What sides pair well with Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?

Delicious sides include roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad that complements the richness of the dish.

How long will Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just remember to keep them in an airtight container!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce as much as I do! It’s a wonderful combination of flavors that makes any meal feel special. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!