The moment the sizzling sound of salmon hitting the pan fills the air, a wave of anticipation washes over me. There’s something truly delightful about transforming fresh ingredients into a gourmet meal in under 20 minutes! This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also indulgently rich, making it feel like a luxurious treat for any night of the week.
Imagine buttery garlic sauce hugging tender, flaky salmon, all with a hint of zest from fresh lemon juice. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors that will have your family or guests raving. Plus, with its low-carb, keto, and gluten-free profile, you can satisfy your cravings without any guilt. Whether you’re impressing at a dinner party or just treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to elevate your dinner routine!
Why will you love Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon?
Quick Prep: You can whip this dish up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Indulgent Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce is rich and decadent, transforming simple salmon into a gourmet delight.
Healthy Choice: With its low-carb and gluten-free profile, you can indulge without the guilt.
Versatile Dish: Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or asparagus for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish guarantees compliments from family and guests alike, making it ideal for any occasion.
Easy Cleanup: Using just one pan minimizes hassle and makes for quick post-dinner cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal even more!
For serving suggestions to complement your salmon, check out those ideas here.
Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Ingredients
For the Butter Sauce
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp) – This helps create a luxurious sauce; feel free to substitute with ghee for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic (6 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile; consider using garlic powder in a pinch.
• Chicken broth (1/2 cup) – It adds a savory depth to the sauce, but vegetable broth works for a vegetarian alternative.
• Heavy cream (1.5 cups) – This creates the creamy base of the sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter, though thinner, option.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – Adds a salty richness while thickening the sauce; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.
For the Salmon
• Salmon filets (4, 5-6 oz. each) – This is the star of the dish, rich in flavors and healthy fats; both fresh and frozen will work well.
• Olive oil – Perfect for pan-searing the salmon; avocado oil can also be used for higher smoke points.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; opt for sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for the best results.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp) – Adds an extra layer of flavor; swap it with fresh garlic if you prefer.
For Garnish
• Parsley (2 tbsp, freshly chopped) – This adds brightness and freshness to your finished dish.
• Lemon juice (from 1/2 a lemon) – A splash of lemon brightens up the overall flavors; don’t skip it!
Each of these ingredients plays a vital role in creating the delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon you and your loved ones will crave over and over again!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
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Heat Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. This will create a perfect base for your salmon.
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Season Salmon: Pat the salmon filets dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a burst of flavor.
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Cook Salmon: Place the salmon skin-side up in the hot pan and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip gently and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
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Remove Salmon: Carefully remove the salmon from the pan and keep it warm on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Once melted, sauté minced garlic for about 3 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden but not burned.
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Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer and cook for approximately 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Make it Creamy: Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted, creating a rich sauce.
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Combine Salmon & Sauce: Return the salmon to the pan, gently spooning the creamy sauce over each filet to coat deliciously.
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Finish with Flavor: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice from half a lemon for brightness right before serving.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon?
Elevate your dining experience with these delicious pairings that beautifully complement the rich flavors of your salmon dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the flaky salmon, soaking up any extra sauce beautifully.
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Sautéed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a fresh, vibrant crunch, balancing the creaminess of the sauce while enhancing the dish’s overall texture.
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Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Rice: This light, low-carb alternative mirrors the flavors of your garlic butter sauce and adds a delightful punch of nutrition.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette creates a refreshing palate cleanser that perfectly offsets the richness of the salmon.
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Lemon Butter Broccoli: Tender broccoli coated in lemon and butter pairs excellently, echoing the bright citrus notes in your salmon.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the creamy sauce while enhancing the dining experience with its crispness.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a sweet ending that’s rich yet airy, completing your meal on a high note.
Every bite should feel like a symphony of flavors, so choose pairings that resonate with you!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
Fridge: Store leftover creamy garlic butter salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain its tenderness and avoid overcooking.
Freezer: If you need to freeze it, place the cooled salmon in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat salmon in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist and flavorful. This helps revive the creamy garlic sauce as well.
Airtight Storage: Ensure that any storage containers are properly sealed to prevent freezer burn and retain the salmon’s rich flavors.
Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Variations
Invite your culinary creativity to take center stage with these delightful twists on your creamy garlic butter salmon.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery touch that awakens the palate.
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Protein Swap: Replace salmon with chicken breasts or shrimp for a different taste experience while keeping it equally delicious.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or asparagus into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
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Citrus Burst: Experiment with orange juice or zest instead of lemon for a sweeter citrus twist that complements the garlic beautifully.
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Asian Flair: Incorporate coconut aminos and ginger to give the sauce an exotic flair, enhancing the dish with new depths of flavor.
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Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like dill or basil to the sauce right before serving for a fresh, aromatic experience that brightens the dish.
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Cashew Cream: For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with cashew cream made from blended soaked cashews for the same creamy texture.
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Nutty Crunch: Top your salmon with toasted slivered almonds or pine nuts for added crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
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Heat Management: Make sure your pan is preheated before adding the salmon; this prevents sticking and achieves a perfect sear.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon while it cooks. It should flake easily but remain moist inside; overcooked salmon can be dry.
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Garlic Sautéing: When cooking garlic for your sauce, stir continually to prevent it from burning, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish.
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Adjust Creaminess: For a creamier texture, be generous with the heavy cream; if you prefer a lighter sauce, half-and-half can work, though it may thin the sauce a bit.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley adds a beautiful touch and freshness. Don’t skip it—it elevates the presentation of your Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon and enhances flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon filets are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify weeknight dinners! You can season the salmon and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking to enhance the flavors. Additionally, prepare the creamy garlic sauce in advance, storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently over low heat before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, all you need to do is heat the pan and cook the salmon, spoon the sauce over it, and finish with fresh lemon juice for vibrant flavor. This way, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time!
Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe FAQs
What kind of salmon should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh salmon filets if possible, as they provide the best flavor and texture. However, if fresh is not available, frozen filets work beautifully too. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Look for filets that are firm and have a vibrant color, avoiding any with dark spots or a fishy smell.
How do I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover creamy garlic butter salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain its juicy texture and to revive the creamy sauce.
Can I freeze creamy garlic butter salmon?
Of course! To freeze, allow the salmon to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the salmon overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet, adding a little broth or cream to keep it moist.
What should I do if my salmon sticks to the pan?
Oh no! If this happens, it may be that the pan wasn’t hot enough before adding the salmon. For the best outcome, always preheat your pan for about 2 minutes until it’s shimmering with oil. If it still sticks, use a thin spatula to gently pry it free, and avoid flipping it too early—salmon releases naturally from the pan when it’s properly cooked and seared.
Can I use a substitute for heavy cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be thinner with this substitute. For dairy-free choices, consider coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar richness that aligns with dietary needs while providing a creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! The creamy garlic butter salmon is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any broth or additional ingredients you use, like chicken broth or seasoning, are labeled gluten-free if that’s a dietary requirement for you or your guests. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence!
Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Ready in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
- Pat the salmon filets dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place the salmon skin-side up in the hot pan and cook for 4-5 minutes. Flip gently and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Carefully remove the salmon from the pan and keep it warm on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Sauté minced garlic for about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the browned bits from the pan and let it simmer for approximately 4 minutes.
- Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Return the salmon to the pan, gently spooning the creamy sauce over each filet.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice from half a lemon for brightness before serving.