Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without the stress, this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is just what you need! It’s a delightful combination of tender salmon and a creamy, garlicky sauce that brings everything to life. I love how easy it is to whip up on busy weeknights or for family gatherings. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you’ll create something that feels fancy without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served any night of the week or at special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves salmon with a rich, creamy sauce; it’s sure to please even picky eaters!
• Flavorful: The lemon butter cream sauce adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
• Make Ahead: You can marinate the salmon earlier in the day and bake it right before dinner.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, you’ll find that most items are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you 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 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! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using chicken breasts or even firm tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add some veggies: Roasted asparagus or broccoli pairs beautifully with this dish. Just toss them in the oven alongside your salmon.
• Change up the herbs: Fresh dill or thyme can add an aromatic twist to your lemon butter cream sauce.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your sauce an extra kick if you like it spicy!

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 set in the center. A hot oven will ensure that your salmon cooks evenly and develops a lovely flaky texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard. Mixing these ingredients creates a vibrant marinade that infuses flavor into your salmon.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place your five skinless salmon fillets into a skillet and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands to rub it into the fish gently. Season each fillet with ½ teaspoon ground black pepper and salt to taste. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender and flaky.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

While your salmon is baking, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Add 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant—this should take around 30 seconds. Sautéing enhances the garlic’s natural sweetness before adding cream.

Step 5: Add Heavy Cream

Pour in ½ cup heavy cream and bring it to a gentle boil. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly while melding all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 6: Finish Your Sauce

Remove from heat and stir in optional freshly squeezed lemon juice if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley and season with an additional sprinkle of ground black pepper and salt according to taste. This final touch makes all the difference!

Step 7: Combine It All

Once your baked salmon is ready, pour that luscious sauce over each fillet, allowing them to rest for about 5-10 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve with fresh lemon slices on the side for an added zing! Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce—your family will be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Cooking salmon perfectly can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic will enhance the flavor of your sauce and salmon, making each bite vibrant and delicious.

• Check for doneness: Salmon is best when it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or until it flakes easily with a fork. This ensures tenderness and prevents overcooking.

• Let it rest: Allowing the baked salmon to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven helps the juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist and flavorful.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper levels based on your preference. This personal touch can elevate your dish even further!

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley is a great choice, feel free to try dill or chives for an extra layer of flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Presenting your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce beautifully can make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped dill or chives not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.
• Lemon zest: Adding a touch of lemon zest on top right before serving provides an aromatic burst that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully with the rich salmon, creating a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.

• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus adds a nutritious crunch that balances out the creamy sauce perfectly.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor while keeping it light and healthy.

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while complementing the dish without overpowering it.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re set to impress family or guests alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal throughout the week without any fuss. With just a few simple steps, you can store the leftovers or even prepare components in advance for easy reheating.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the salmon separate from the sauce if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the baked salmon to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each salmon fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The sauce can be frozen in an airtight container; it may separate upon thawing but can be re-emulsified when reheated.
• Use within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• For the sauce, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

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

Yes! While salmon is perfect for this recipe due to its rich flavor and texture, you can also use trout or cod. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the thickness of the fish.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

How can I add more flavor to my Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?

Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme to both the marinade and sauce. A dash of red pepper flakes can also give it a nice kick!

Can I make this Baked Salmon recipe without cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version while still keeping that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce as delightful as I do! It’s special not only for its rich flavors but also for how easy it is to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish will surely impress and satisfy. Enjoy making this delicious meal, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite sides! Happy cooking!