Description

If you’re looking for an easy, elegant meal that delivers on both flavor and presentation, this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a must-try. Tender salmon fillets are oven-roasted to perfection and served with a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce that’s buttery, bright, and downright delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Lemon slices for baking

For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:

2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
¾ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp lemon zest
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish and Serving:

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving
Cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
Rub each fillet with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Place lemon slices on top of each fillet and arrange them on the baking sheet.

Step 2: Bake the Salmon

Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and tent with foil while you make the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
Gradually add broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the sauce for 5-6 minutes until it thickens.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and let it melt completely into the sauce.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

Place each salmon fillet on a serving plate.
Spoon the lemon butter cream sauce generously over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side.
Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite green vegetables.

Notes

Don’t Overbake – Salmon is best when moist and flaky, not dry.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice – Bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh.
Taste as You Go – Adjust salt, lemon, and Parmesan in the sauce to suit your preference.
Add a Dash of Spice – A pinch of red pepper flakes can add subtle heat to the sauce.
Prep Ahead – Season salmon in advance and refrigerate for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American