Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

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If you are looking for a restaurant-quality meal that feels luxurious yet takes under 20 minutes to prepare, Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon is an absolute winner! Featuring tender, pan-seared salmon fillets bathed in a velvety garlic butter cream sauce, this dish brings maximum flavor with minimal effort. It is rich, savory, perfectly flaky, and ideal for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • Salmon Fillets: 4 skin-on or skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each).
  • Seasoning: ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder.
  • Olive Oil: 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for searing).

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp.
  • Garlic: 5 cloves minced.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: ⅓ cup low-sodium broth (or dry white wine like Pinot Grigio).
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or double cream).
  • Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (to cut through the richness).
  • Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley or dill.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep and Season the Salmon:
    • Pat the salmon fillets completely dry on all sides using paper towels.
    • Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Pan-Sear to Golden Perfection:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the salmon fillets and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms and the fish is cooked through.
    • Transfer the seared salmon fillets to a warm plate and set aside.
  3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
    • Lower the skillet heat to medium and melt the butter.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
    • Pour in the broth (or white wine), using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
    • Reduce heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer.
    • Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and melted, then whisk in the fresh lemon juice.
  4. Combine and Serve:
    • Nestled the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet.
    • Spoon the silky garlic butter cream sauce continuously over top until heated through.
    • Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill, and serve immediately!

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Dry the Salmon Well: Removing excess moisture ensures a crisp, golden sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender.
  • Grate Your Own Parmesan: Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking additives that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grate fresh Parmesan from a block for a silky sauce.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with garlic butter pasta, steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or warm crusty French bread for dipping.

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