Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce: A Perfect Combination of Flavor and Elegance

Salmon is often considered one of the most versatile and healthy fish, and when paired with a rich, zesty lemon butter cream sauce, it elevates any dining experience. This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a deliciously indulgent yet easy-to-make dish that brings out the delicate flavors of the fish while complementing it with a creamy and tangy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply enjoying a hearty meal at home, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant.

If you are looking to explore more recipes featuring salmon, you may want to check out Salmon Recipes from Food Network and Easy Salmon Recipes on AllRecipes.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce – A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Author: Jennifer Mitchell
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a delectable dish featuring perfectly baked salmon fillets topped with a rich and creamy lemon butter sauce. The sauce, made with heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and butter, brings a zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender, flaky salmon. A garnish of chopped parsley and lemon slices adds a refreshing touch to this elegant and easy-to-make meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake the Salmon:
Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Prepare the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the cream from curdling.
Once the sauce has simmered for 3-4 minutes, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir well to combine.
Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Serve:
Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and plate the fillets.
Spoon the lemon butter cream sauce over the salmon fillets.
Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices.
Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, zesty baked salmon!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or a combination of heavy cream and whole milk in the sauce.
If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add additional lemon zest to the sauce.
This recipe works well with other fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or trout.
Be careful not to overbake the salmon, as it can become dry. It should be just cooked through and tender.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with sauce
Calories: 475 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the salmon will cook evenly and retain its moisture.
Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a brush or your hands to ensure the fillets are evenly coated.
Bake the Salmon: Transfer the salmon to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them as they cook.
Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce: While the salmon is baking, it’s time to prepare the creamy sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Lemon Juice: Once the cream mixture has thickened slightly, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finish the Dish: Once the salmon is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and drizzle the lemon butter cream sauce over each fillet. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and lemon slices for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked salmon immediately, paired with your favorite side dishes such as rice, vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and flavorful dish that will surely satisfy your taste buds.

Advanced Techniques

Perfectly Baking Salmon

To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, it’s crucial to monitor the baking time closely. Overcooking salmon can cause it to become dry and tough, so avoid exceeding the 18-minute mark for average fillet thickness. For those seeking a more elevated texture, you can sear the salmon in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side before transferring it to the oven. This method will yield a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.

Enhancing the Sauce Flavor

If you’re looking to add depth to the sauce, consider incorporating a splash of white wine or a touch of Dijon mustard to the cream sauce. These additions will bring a subtle acidity and complexity to the overall flavor profile. You can also experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme, dill, or tarragon for a more aromatic finish.

For those who prefer a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will create an exciting contrast with the rich creaminess of the sauce and complement the delicate flavor of the salmon.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftover Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

If you have leftover Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s how:

Refrigeration: Allow the salmon to cool down to room temperature before storing. Place the salmon fillets and sauce in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, it’s best to do so gently. Place the salmon and sauce in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave on low power, but the texture may not be as perfect.
Freezing: While freezing salmon isn’t ideal for maintaining the texture, you can freeze it for longer storage. Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. The sauce can be frozen separately in an airtight container. When ready to use, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat using the same method mentioned above.

Shelf Life

Baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator. The sauce can be stored separately for up to 3 days, but for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume it within the first 24 hours.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Making It Dairy-Free

If you’re following a dairy-free diet, you can easily adapt this recipe by substituting the heavy cream and butter with dairy-free alternatives. Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of the heavy cream and dairy-free margarine or olive oil instead of butter. The lemon juice and fresh herbs will still lend a fresh, tangy flavor that makes this dish so delicious.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet. You can pair the baked salmon with non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini, to keep the meal light and keto-friendly.

Gluten-Free Option

The good news is that Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is inherently gluten-free. Just make sure to check any pre-packaged ingredients like the heavy cream to ensure they’re free from additives that may contain gluten.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, frozen salmon can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon butter cream sauce ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving with the baked salmon.

Can I substitute other types of fish for this recipe?

While this recipe is designed for salmon, you can substitute other fish fillets such as trout, cod, or halibut. Just note that the cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or sliced bell peppers can be added to the baking dish alongside the salmon. They will cook in the same oven temperature and make a well-rounded, one-pan meal.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a wonderful dish that brings together the richness of the salmon with the zesty and creamy elements of the sauce. With its simplicity and elegance, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, the flavors will delight your taste buds every time. By experimenting with advanced techniques, dietary adaptations, and even storing tips, you can tailor the recipe to your preferences. So why not give it a try? Your dinner guests will be impressed, and you’ll be proud of the delicious meal you’ve created.