Description
This baked salmon is perfectly flaky and tender, topped with a rich and creamy lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s an elegant yet easy dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Place salmon skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- While salmon bakes, make the sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat to low and whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Remove salmon from oven. Spoon the creamy lemon garlic butter sauce generously over each fillet.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use fresh salmon fillets of similar thickness for even cooking. The sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated.
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2 g
- Fat: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Protein: 45 g