⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 15 minutes

There's nothing quite like a perfectly seared salmon fillet, especially when it's smothered in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce. This dish is indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, but elegant enough to impress guests.

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📸 *Golden, crispy salmon fillets swimming in a luscious garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and herbs.*

Why You’ll Love This Recipe!

Cooking salmon to perfection is easier than you think! The key is to get that crispy, golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and flaky. By pan-searing the fillets first, you lock in all that delicious flavor. Then, a creamy garlic butter sauce takes everything to the next level—rich, velvety, and just the right touch of citrusy freshness.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a light salad. If you’re watching your carbs, try serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. No matter how you enjoy it, this salmon dish is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

🍽️ Servings: 4 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 450

4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Steps

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear them for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2

Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

Step 3

Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4

Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Return the salmon fillets to the pan and spoon the sauce over them. Let them cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Make it your own!

🥓 Add extra flavor by tossing in crispy bacon bits.
🌿 Swap the Italian seasoning for fresh basil or dill for a unique twist.
🥦 Serve with steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
🥑 For a keto-friendly version, serve over sautéed spinach or cauliflower mash.