Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce – A Luxurious Yet Easy Dinner
There are certain meals that feel instantly comforting yet elegant at the same time, and baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is one of them. It’s the kind of dish that looks like it belongs on a restaurant menu but comes together effortlessly in your own kitchen. The salmon bakes gently in the oven until perfectly flaky, while a velvety lemon butter cream sauce wraps each bite in richness, brightness, and warmth. It’s indulgent without being heavy, simple yet deeply satisfying.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing and impressive, but it also shines as a centerpiece for special dinners. The combination of buttery salmon, fresh garlic, and citrusy lemon creates a harmony of flavors that feels both classic and timeless. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this dish delivers comfort with a touch of luxury.
One of the best things about this baked salmon recipe is how forgiving it is. Salmon is naturally rich and flavorful, and the oven-baking method ensures even cooking with minimal effort. The lemon butter cream sauce adds depth and elegance, transforming a simple fish dinner into something truly memorable. Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables, and you have a complete meal that satisfies on every level.
Ingredients:
- Salmon fillets
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic cloves
- Heavy cream
- Fresh lemon (juice and zest)
- Dijon mustard
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish, skin-side down. Drizzle with olive oil and season evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon bakes, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, allowing it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the salmon from the oven and spoon the lemon butter cream sauce generously over each fillet.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Season salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Melt butter in a skillet, add garlic, then stir in cream.
- Add lemon juice, zest, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan; simmer until creamy.
- Serve sauce over baked salmon and garnish with parsley.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh salmon whenever possible for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overbake the salmon; it should remain moist and tender.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of warm water or broth to loosen it.
Variations
- Add spinach to the sauce for a creamy spinach salmon variation.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add capers for a briny, Mediterranean twist.
Serving Suggestions
This baked salmon pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered pasta. For a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted asparagus, green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
Storage Information
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the fish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
History / Fun Facts
Salmon has been enjoyed for centuries across Europe and North America, prized for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Cream-based sauces became popular in French cuisine, and pairing salmon with butter and cream is a timeless culinary tradition that continues to evolve in modern kitchens.
