As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas, I find joy in creating dishes that feel like a warm hug after a long day. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce. This dish effortlessly combines simplicity with elegance, making it a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. With minimal prep time and a flavor-packed sauce that balances buttery richness with zesty lemon, it takes mere moments to make and transforms dinner into a delightful experience. Not only is this recipe gluten-free, but it’s also a healthful option brimming with omega-3 fatty acids. Are you ready to elevate your dinner routine and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering culinary adventure together!

Why is this salmon recipe a must-try?

Simplicity and Elegance: This recipe embraces minimal prep time and straightforward steps, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Flavor Explosion: The zesty lemon butter cream sauce perfectly complements the rich salmon, creating a delightful balance of flavors that your taste buds will adore.

Healthful Goodness: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this dish serves as a nutritious dinner option without compromising on taste.

Versatile Pairings: Whether served with a side of sautéed vegetables or placed over creamy pasta, this salmon dish enhances any meal and leaves your family craving more.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Bring a twist to your dinner table with this showstopper dish, guaranteed to impress guests on special occasions or simply brighten up your weeknight meals.

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

• A delightful blend of flavors awaits you!

For the Salmon

  • Salmon Fillets – Choose skin-on for extra moisture and flavor during baking.
  • Olive Oil – Ideal for drizzling; you can swap it with melted butter for a richer taste.
  • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to enhance the salmon’s natural flavor.

For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

  • Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich creaminess; choose this over salted for better flavor control.
  • Garlic Cloves – Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and taste, but minced garlic works in a pinch.
  • Heavy Cream – Gives the sauce a luxurious texture; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and balances richness; fresh juice is highly recommended over bottled.
  • Lemon Zest – Imparts a vibrant lemon flavor; feel free to adjust the quantity as per your liking.
  • Chopped Fresh Parsley – Acts as a garnish and freshens up the dish; dill is a lovely alternative.

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce brings warmth and sophistication to your kitchen, making it an essential recipe to try!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prep Salmon
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, take your salmon fillets and season them generously with salt and pepper. Let the fillets sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky texture once baked.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or melted butter to prevent sticking. Arrange the seasoned salmon fillets, skin-side down, in the dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the salmon for added moisture and flavor. This dish will be the base for your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce.

Step 3: Bake Salmon
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The edges should be slightly golden, and you’ll notice a lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen during this time. Keep an eye on the salmon to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Make Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
While the salmon bakes, melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring continuously. The rich aroma will intensify, setting the stage for the creamy sauce that will elevate your dish.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients
To the sautéed garlic, pour in the heavy cream along with freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir the mixture continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly and is well combined. This creamy lemon butter sauce will beautifully complement your baked salmon.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the salmon is done baking, remove it from the oven and transfer to serving plates. Drizzle the luscious lemon butter cream sauce generously over the salmon fillets. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor. This presentation is sure to impress your family and friends!

Expert Tips for Baked Salmon

  • Temperature Matters: Ensure your salmon fillets are at room temperature before baking. This promotes even cooking and a flaky texture, enhancing your baked salmon’s taste.

  • Check for Doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the salmon at the thickest part; it should be opaque and flake easily. Avoid overcooking for the best results.

  • Zest Carefully: When adding lemon zest, use a microplane to avoid the bitter white pith and to get a fresh burst of flavor in your lemon butter cream sauce.

  • Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly or substitute in a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, ensuring your dish remains delightful.

  • Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill brighten the dish visually and add flavor. Experiment with other herbs to find your perfect pairing with this baked salmon recipe!

What to Serve with Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

As the delightful aroma of baked salmon fills your kitchen, take the opportunity to pair this sumptuous dish with sides that will elevate your meal to new heights.

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture and buttery flavor harmonize beautifully with the rich lemon butter sauce, providing a comforting base for each bite.

  • Steamed Asparagus: This bright, crunchy vegetable adds a refreshing touch that complements the salmon’s richness while providing a pop of color to your plate.

  • Citrusy Quinoa Salad: The zesty citrus dressing mirrors the flavors of your dish, offering a light and nutritious side with a delightful crunch from fresh vegetables.

  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy edges enhance the overall meal, adding depth and a hint of sweetness that pairs excellently with the salmon.

  • Creamy Spinach: A velvety spinach side can balance the dish with its earthy flavors, creating a delicious contrast to the zesty lemon butter cream sauce.

  • Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will brighten the meal, enhancing the lemony undertones and making each bite sing.

The combination of these sides not only rounds out your dinner but creates a well-balanced, memorable experience that will leave everyone at the table raving.

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by trying these delightful variations that will elevate your salmon experience.

  • Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free sauce without sacrificing flavor. It adds a pleasant tropical twist!

  • Herb-Infused: Use fresh basil or tarragon instead of parsley to create a herby flavor profile that complements the lemon beautifully. Each herb brings its unique flair!

  • Zesty Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the lemon butter cream sauce for a spicy twist. The subtle heat will awaken your taste buds.

  • Nutty Crunch: Top the baked salmon with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds just before serving for added crunch and a nutty flavor. This texture contrast takes your dish to the next level.

  • Citrus Medley: Mix in some orange juice and zest along with the lemon for a bright and refreshing citrus sauce. It balances sweetness with sharpness for a flavor explosion!

Delightfully, this versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside loaded mashed potatoes, like those in my Baked Salmon Lemon Pasta for a comforting dinner. Each bite will remind you that home-cooked meals are where the heart is!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Fridge: Store any leftover baked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will help maintain its flavors without sacrificing freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, keeping for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. This preserves the delightful texture of the salmon and the creamy sauce.

Sauce Storage: If you have leftover lemon butter cream sauce, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, ensuring it doesn’t boil to maintain its creamy consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce are incredibly convenient for meal prep! You can season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing for a more flavorful fish. The lemon butter cream sauce can also be prepared in advance; simply sauté the garlic and mix it with the cream, lemon juice, and zest. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently over low heat while baking the salmon as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy a deliciously fresh meal on busy weeknights with minimal effort!

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs

How should I select salmon fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing salmon, look for fillets that are bright with a moist sheen and firm texture. Skin-on fillets are great for extra flavor and moisture during baking. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this may indicate spoilage.

What is the best way to store leftover baked salmon?
You can store any leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just ensure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to preserve its moisture. This practice helps retain the delightful flavor for your next meal!

Can I freeze baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce?
Yes! To freeze, wrap individual portions of baked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat gently in the oven to maintain moisture and flavor.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making the lemon butter cream sauce?
Very important! When making the sauce, avoid boiling it, as this can cause separation. Instead, gently heat it until warmed through. Additionally, be careful when zesting the lemon; use a microplane to avoid the bitter white pith, ensuring a bright, fresh flavor in your dish.

Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those avoiding gluten. If you need it dairy-free, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream and use olive oil instead of butter for a delicious alternative everyone can enjoy!

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce for a Cozy Night

Discover the flavors of Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance for dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 4 fillets Salmon Choose skin-on for extra moisture and flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for drizzling; can be swapped with melted butter.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Adds rich creaminess.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use fresh for best results.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream can be used for dairy-free.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Fresh juice is highly recommended.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Adjust quantity to preference.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Dill is a lovely alternative.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking dish
  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
  2. Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange salmon fillets, skin-side down. Drizzle with olive oil.
  3. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes until flaky and opaque.
  4. Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest; stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove salmon from oven, drizzle with lemon butter cream sauce, and garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 25gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 700mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a lighter sauce, consider using less heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

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