Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The salmon is baked to flaky perfection and smothered in a rich, velvety lemon butter sauce, bursting with tangy citrus and buttery goodness. Paired with vegetables or a light salad, this dish will become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Small saucepan
• Basting brush (optional)

Ingredients Overview

• Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh, high-quality fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.
• Butter: Creates the creamy base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with savory depth.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
• Herbs: Dill or parsley complement the salmon beautifully.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Salmon
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Place them in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic.
3. Bake the Salmon
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
   • While the salmon is baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest.
   • Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine and Serve
   • Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and spoon the lemon butter cream sauce over each fillet. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Instructions

From baking the salmon to preparing the sauce, this recipe is as easy as it is elegant. While the fish bakes, the sauce comes together quickly on the stovetop, making this a fuss-free meal.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Salmon: Skin-on fillets help retain moisture, but skinless works too.
• Don’t Overcook: Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Add Veggies: Bake asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini alongside the salmon for an easy side.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Rice or Quinoa: A neutral grain complements the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots are great options.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up the lemon butter sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?
For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken.

How long does the sauce keep?
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid separation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon. Its bright and creamy flavors pair wonderfully with fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy this elegant yet approachable recipe that’s sure to impress!

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

• 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup 60 ml fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup 120 ml heavy cream
• 1/4 cup 60 g unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill

Instructions

 

• Preheat the Oven
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
• Prepare the Salmon
• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Place them in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic.
• Bake the Salmon
• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
• Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
• While the salmon is baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest.
• Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Combine and Serve
• Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and spoon the lemon butter cream sauce over each fillet. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve immediately.