Pin Tender salmon fillets baked in a luscious, tangy lemon butter sauce—made creamy with cream cheese and Parmesan, without heavy cream. An elegant yet easy seafood main perfect for weeknights or entertaining. This recipe delivers a sophisticated flavor profile with minimal effort, making it a go-to for healthy and delicious dining.
Pin Whether you are hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick family meal, this dish offers a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home. The combination of fresh lemon and melted butter creates a vibrant sauce that perfectly complements the flaky, tender salmon.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on or skinless
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56 g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened (60 g)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25 g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Step 2
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper. Arrange fillets in the prepared baking dish, skin side down if using skin-on.
- Step 3
- In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and stir immediately to release aroma without browning.
- Step 4
- Whisk in lemon juice, lemon zest, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 5
- Spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over the top and sides of each salmon fillet.
- Step 6
- Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the sauce is bubbling and lightly golden at the edges.
- Step 7
- Optional: For a golden crust, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Step 8
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor. To soften cream cheese quickly, microwave for 10–15 seconds. Pat salmon dry to help the sauce adhere and prevent excess moisture from thinning out the sauce.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese or omit it entirely. You can also experiment with different herbs like dill or chives in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Serviervorschläge
Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. A light green salad with a vinaigrette also balances the richness of the lemon butter sauce perfectly.
Pin Enjoy this beautifully balanced main dish that combines the freshness of citrus with a creamy, golden finish. It is a satisfying meal that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary results.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the salmon moist when baking?
Pat the salmon fillets dry before seasoning and spoon the creamy lemon butter sauce evenly over them to lock in moisture. Avoid overbaking to keep the fillets tender.
- → Can I use skin-on or skinless salmon for this dish?
Both work well. Skin-on helps retain moisture and adds texture, while skinless cooks quickly and easily absorbs the sauce.
- → What is the purpose of cream cheese in the sauce?
Cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy texture without heaviness, balancing the lemon's acidity and enhancing the richness of the butter sauce.
- → Can I prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store covered in the fridge. Warm gently before spreading it over the salmon to maintain creaminess.
- → What sides pair well with this salmon dish?
Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or rice complement the rich lemon butter flavors and create a balanced meal.
- → How can I make a dairy-free version?
Substitute butter with olive oil and replace cream cheese with a suitable dairy-free alternative or omit it for a lighter sauce.