Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for an effortlessly elegant dinner that dazzles with flavor, this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender, flaky salmon baked to perfection, bathed in a luscious lemon-infused butter and cream sauce that brings just the right balance of tangy brightness and rich indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this dish combines simplicity and sophistication in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade touch.
• Rich, But Light: The cream sauce feels indulgent without being heavy or overpowering the salmon’s natural flavor.
• Healthful and Nourishing: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both tasty and heart-healthy.
• Versatile Flavor: Lemon and butter complement salmon beautifully and are crowd-pleasers for all palates.
• Impressively Simple: Minimal ingredients with maximum taste, great for cooks at any skill level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce recipe relies on straightforward, fresh ingredients that you likely already have, each playing a key role in creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures.

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh or thawed wild-caught salmon ensures a flaky, rich base.
• Butter: The foundation of the creamy sauce, adding smooth richness.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Provides lively acidity that brightens the entire dish.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a silky texture and mellow richness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with a subtle, aromatic depth without overwhelming the flavors.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill): Brings freshness and a burst of color to finish the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the natural flavors.

Variations for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs; its flexible base invites numerous creative spins and substitutions.

• Herb Swap: Use tarragon or chives instead of parsley for a different herbal twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a touch of chili flakes or cayenne to the sauce for subtle heat.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use olive oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly version.
• Citrus Mix: Replace lemon with lime or add orange zest for a sweeter citrus note.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts over the salmon before baking for texture contrast.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Salmon

Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and patting your salmon fillets dry to ensure proper browning and crisp skin if desired. Place them on a lined baking sheet, and lightly season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

While the salmon bakes, melt butter gently in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add finely minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly, then remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs.

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

Bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until it flakes easily with a fork. The salmon should still be moist and tender inside.

Step 4: Plate and Pour

Transfer the salmon to serving plates and generously spoon the luscious lemon butter cream sauce over the top. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or lemon slices for a bright finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

• Choose Quality Salmon: Wild-caught tends to be more flavorful and firmer in texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon to avoid dryness; the ideal internal temperature is 125°F to 130°F.
• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh juice and zest deliver brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled alternatives.
• Simmer Sauce Carefully: Avoid boiling cream to prevent curdling—gentle simmering is key.
• Prep Ahead: Slice herbs and measure ingredients beforehand to speed up the cooking process.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill and a few thin lemon slices to enhance visual appeal and flavor.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light quinoa salad for a balanced meal that complements the richness of the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve on a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy risotto. For a casual twist, flake the salmon into warm tortillas with fresh veggies for salmon tacos kissed with lemon butter cream sauce drizzle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F) or microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out the salmon or breaking the sauce’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, thaw it completely and pat dry before baking to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats well and keeps its delicious flavor, making it perfect for packed lunches or quick dinners.

Can I make the lemon butter cream sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and gently rewarm before pouring it over the salmon.

What type of cream works best in the sauce?

Heavy cream is ideal for its richness and ability to thicken without separating, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.

Is the sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something quick, elegant, and brimming with flavor, this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a total winner. It’s a recipe that impresses without stress and feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. Try it tonight and savor the magic this simple combination brings to your table.

Related Posts

• Easy Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe

Print