If you’re looking for a show-stopping yet effortless dinner, this Creamy Garlic Salmon Bake is your answer. Tender, flaky salmon fillets are baked in a rich garlic butter cream sauce, perfectly infused with fresh lemon and a hint of Parmesan. It’s savory, comforting, and made in under 30 minutes, all in one dish.
Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it’s also packed with bold flavors that feel restaurant-worthy—ideal for a cozy weeknight or an impressive dinner party. The creamy garlic butter sauce practically begs to be spooned over a side of rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.
Did you know salmon has been prized for centuries across coastal cultures? Ancient Greeks believed it was a sacred food of longevity, and this creamy version just might be your new family favorite. With minimal prep and major flavor, it’s a salmon recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or off)
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the garlic butter sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Arrange and season the salmon:
Place the salmon fillets into the prepared baking dish, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Pour the creamy garlic butter sauce evenly over the top of each fillet.
4. Bake until flaky:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. For a golden top, broil on high for 2 extra minutes at the end.
5. Garnish and serve:
Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve warm with your favorite sides like steamed asparagus, garlic rice, or roasted baby potatoes.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Opt for wild-caught if available.
- Don’t Overbake: Salmon cooks quickly! Keep an eye on it and remove as soon as it flakes easily to avoid dry fish.
- Boost Flavor: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a few lemon slices on top for an extra punch of brightness and heat.
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