Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

A Restaurant-Quality Dinner You Can Easily Make at Home

Salmon has long been celebrated as one of the most flavorful and nutrient-rich fish in the world. Its tender texture, mild flavor, and impressive health benefits make it a favorite for home cooks and professional chefs alike. While there are countless ways to prepare salmon, baking it with a rich lemon butter cream sauce is an approach that elevates this fish to a whole new level.

This recipe is more than just a quick weeknight meal—it’s a dish that balances elegance with simplicity. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two, a wholesome family meal, or a show-stopping entrée for guests, this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce delivers a perfect blend of buttery richness, tangy citrus, and delicate creaminess. Best of all, it requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know—from selecting the freshest salmon to baking it to perfection and preparing a luxurious sauce that will make everyone ask for seconds.

Why This Recipe Works

There are several reasons why this baked salmon recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

1. Flavor Balance: The tangy lemon juice cuts through the natural richness of salmon, while the butter and cream create a smooth, decadent sauce.
2. Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve professional results.
3. Nutrition: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, making this dish both delicious and nourishing.
4. Versatility: This recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to fluffy mashed potatoes or even a light garden salad.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:

• 5 skinless salmon fillets (about 5 oz each) – Choose firm, bright-colored salmon with no strong odor.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps keep the salmon moist while baking.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream – Provides a silky, luxurious texture.
• 1 garlic clove, minced – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tang and complexity.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Enhances the natural flavors.
• Salt (to taste) – Adjust according to your preference.
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice – For an extra citrusy punch in the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped – A fresh finishing touch.
• Lemon slices – For garnish and a pop of color on the plate.

Ingredient Tips

• Salmon Choice: Atlantic, sockeye, or coho salmon all work beautifully. Wild-caught varieties tend to have a more robust flavor, while farm-raised salmon is milder and often more affordable.
• Heavy Cream Substitute: If you prefer a lighter sauce, half-and-half can be used, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
• Dijon Mustard: Old-style Dijon has visible mustard seeds, which give the sauce a rustic look and gentle texture.

Method

Follow these detailed steps to create a salmon dish that looks and tastes like it came straight from a fine-dining restaurant.

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
4. Drizzle the fillets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season with salt and ground black pepper.

Step 2: Bake the Salmon

1. Arrange the seasoned fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. 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 bakes, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the Dijon mustard and 2 tablespoons lemon juice, whisking until well combined.
4. Pour in the ½ cup heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly—about 3–5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of extra lemon juice for added brightness.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Once the salmon is fully baked, transfer the fillets to serving plates.
2. Generously spoon the warm lemon butter cream sauce over the top.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and a few lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, and overbaking can dry it out. Start checking for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
• Room Temperature Salmon: Allowing the fillets to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking ensures more even cooking.
• Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and high-quality cream make a noticeable difference in the sauce’s flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is wonderfully versatile. Here are some pairing ideas to turn it into a complete meal:

• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a medley of colorful bell peppers.
• Carbohydrates: Creamy mashed potatoes, herbed rice pilaf, or buttery garlic noodles.
• Salads: A crisp arugula salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the citrusy, creamy flavors perfectly.

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Each serving is packed with:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• High-Quality Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Salmon is rich in B vitamins, vitamin D, and selenium.

Combined with the fresh lemon juice and parsley, this dish offers both indulgence and wholesome nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it over low heat before serving.
• Leftovers: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a low oven (275°F/135°C) or in a covered skillet over medium-low heat to prevent drying.

Variations to Try

• Herb-Infused Sauce: Add fresh dill, thyme, or basil to the cream sauce for an herbal twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce for a subtle heat.
• Grilled Salmon: For a smokier flavor, grill the salmon instead of baking and drizzle with the same sauce.
• Low-Fat Option: Use Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream for a lighter but tangy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for best results.

Q2: How can I tell if my salmon is fully cooked?
The fish should easily flake with a fork and appear opaque in the center. An instant-read thermometer should register 145°F (63°C).

Q3: Can I substitute another type of mustard?
If you don’t have old-style Dijon, regular Dijon mustard works well, though it will create a smoother sauce without the texture of mustard seeds.

Q4: What sides go best with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, garlic butter rice, or a simple green salad complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Q5: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes. Replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q6: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Cook the salmon and store it with the sauce in separate containers. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

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Conclusion

This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is proof that restaurant-quality meals can be created effortlessly in your own kitchen. The delicate balance of tangy lemon, creamy butter, and rich salmon makes this recipe a timeless classic. Whether you’re planning a weekday dinner or entertaining guests, this dish offers a perfect combination of elegance and ease.

With its short ingredient list, easy preparation, and exquisite flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Pair it with your favorite sides, pour a glass of crisp white wine, and enjoy a truly memorable meal.