A bright, elegant seafood dish perfect for any occasion
When I first made this Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce, I knew it would become a regular in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that manages to be both restaurant-worthy and simple enough for a busy weeknight. The salmon turns out perfectly tender, and the creamy lemon butter sauce adds just the right balance of richness and freshness.
Whether you’re hosting guests or just want to elevate your dinner, this dish delivers flavor, elegance, and comfort all on one plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple but impressive – Looks and tastes gourmet, yet is easy to prepare.
- Fresh and bright flavors – Lemon and herbs balance the richness of the butter and cream.
- Perfectly baked salmon – Moist, tender, and flaky every time.
- Versatile serving options – Pairs well with vegetables, rice, potatoes, or pasta.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 170 g each), skin removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the oven
Preheat to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Season the salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the prepared dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Make the sauce
While the salmon bakes, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add liquids
Gradually whisk in chicken broth to avoid lumps. Simmer for 2 minutes, then add the cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the sauce slightly thickens.
6. Combine and serve
Remove salmon from the oven and pour the hot sauce over each fillet. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overbake the salmon – Pull it out as soon as it’s flaky and opaque to keep it moist.
- Use fresh lemon juice – Bottled juice can taste flat; fresh gives the best flavor.
- Make the sauce ahead – You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently before serving.
- Pair it well – Steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or buttery rice complement this dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This salmon pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic butter green beans
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Lemon-herb rice
- Light pasta with olive oil and herbs
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon. The sauce may thicken in the fridge; stir in a splash of cream or broth when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s fresh yet indulgent, elegant yet easy, and it always impresses. Perfect for dinner parties or just treating yourself to something special at home.