Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce – Ready in 20 Minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, elegant, and flavorful dinner, this Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is the perfect choice. The rich, buttery sauce perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon, and the bright notes of lemon enhance the freshness of the dish. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

This recipe is also versatile—you can serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a well-balanced meal.

Ingredients

For the salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the lemon butter cream sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Salmon

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and rub it evenly.
5. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and lemon zest over the fillets.

Step 2: Bake the Salmon

1. Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
2. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

1. While the salmon is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the lemon juice, and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove the salmon from the oven and transfer it to plates.
2. Spoon the lemon butter cream sauce over each fillet.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Herb Variations: Try adding fresh dill, thyme, or chives for a different flavor.
• Low-Carb Side Dish: Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted asparagus.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the salmon (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! If using frozen salmon, thaw it completely in the refrigerator before baking. Pat it dry before seasoning.

What can I serve with this dish?

This salmon pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Fresh, wild-caught salmon like sockeye or king salmon has the best flavor, but farmed Atlantic salmon works well too.

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grill the salmon over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, then serve with the sauce.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this dish is low in carbs and works well for a keto diet, especially if served with low-carb sides.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or stir in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the texture and taste will be slightly different.

Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet?

Yes! Toss asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini in olive oil and bake them alongside the salmon.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a delicious, quick, and elegant meal perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and zesty lemon flavor, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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