Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick yet elegant dinner option, look no further! This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce has become a cherished recipe in my home. It transforms the simplest ingredients into something truly special, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The salmon comes out tender and flaky, topped with a luscious lemon cream sauce that brightens every bite. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a staple on your dinner rotation.

Not only does this recipe showcase the wonderful flavors of salmon, but it also embodies comfort and warmth. Whether you’re having a cozy night in with family or hosting friends for dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy lemon sauce and fresh salmon creates an irresistible taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender salmon paired with the zesty sauce. It’s a win-win!
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Stunning Presentation: Serve it up with a sprinkle of parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce lies in its simplicity. You’ll find that these wholesome ingredients are easy to gather and make for a delightful meal that feels gourmet!

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard

For the Salmon

• 5 skinless salmon fillets (about 5 oz each)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt (to taste)

For the Cream Sauce

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
• 1 tablespoon parsley (finely chopped)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Lemon slices

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust it according to your tastes.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even firm tofu for a plant-based option that still soaks up all those delicious flavors.
• Add veggies: Incorporate some asparagus or spinach into the baking sheet for an all-in-one meal that’s colorful and nutritious.
• Change the herbs: If parsley isn’t your favorite, fresh dill or basil can bring a fresh twist to the dish.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce if you’re looking for an extra kick!

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial as it helps cook the salmon quickly while keeping it tender and juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. This marinade will infuse your salmon with bright flavors while keeping it moist during baking.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in the marinade and let them soak up those lovely flavors for at least 15 minutes. Don’t skip this step; it makes all the difference in taste!

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Arrange the marinated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until it’s flaky and cooked through. Keep an eye on it—the goal is perfectly cooked salmon that still melts in your mouth.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

While your salmon bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. This step adds depth to your sauce and makes your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 6: Stir in Heavy Cream

Once fragrant, stir in heavy cream and let it simmer until thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and optional lemon juice based on how zesty you like it.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

When everything is ready, serve your baked salmon topped generously with that creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for an added touch of elegance. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Cooking can be a breeze, especially when you have a few insider tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to elevate your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce to the next level.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and freshly squeezed lemons will enhance the overall flavor of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon is best when it’s flaky yet moist. Keep an eye on the cooking time so that it doesn’t dry out. A perfect bake time ensures juicy, tender fish.

• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the garlic and lemon juice levels in the sauce according to your taste preferences. This flexibility allows you to create a sauce that perfectly complements your palate.

• Rest Before Serving: Letting the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier without falling apart.

• Experiment with Herbs: While parsley is a classic garnish, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or chives for added flavor and visual appeal.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Presenting your dish beautifully can elevate any meal! Here are some delightful ways to serve this exquisite salmon dish that will impress both family and friends.

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: Adding lemon wedges not only enhances presentation but also allows guests to brighten their plate with extra citrus flavor.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle additional fresh parsley or dill over the top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunchy texture and pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce, making it an excellent complement.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that balances well with the richness of the salmon.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a light vinaigrette offers a healthy contrast while being filling and nutritious.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these sprouts add a delightful crunch and slightly nutty flavor, making them an ideal pairing.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll not only impress your guests but also create a memorable dining experience centered around your delicious Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store any leftovers or plan for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• Keep the lemon butter cream sauce separate to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze the lemon butter cream sauce separately in a small container.

Reheating

• To reheat the salmon, place it on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
• The lemon butter cream sauce can be gently reheated on the stovetop over low heat. Stir continuously to prevent separation.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious baked salmon recipe!

Can I make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for thickness.

How long does Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce take to prepare?

This dish takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor!

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes! While salmon is recommended for its rich flavor, you can use other firm fish like trout or cod. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce as much as I do! It’s not just delicious but also quick and easy, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!