There’s something about the way the aroma of garlic and lemon mingles with creamy Parmesan as it bakes, filling the kitchen with warmth and promise. One evening, after a long day, I remember pulling this baked creamy salmon from the oven. The surface was golden, the sauce velvety, and the salmon flaky but tender. I plated it alongside a crisp salad, the tang of fresh parsley brightening every bite. Sitting down to eat, I realized this wasn’t just dinner; it was a small, soothing ritual that helped me breathe again.
The first forkful wrapped me in comfort—the creamy sauce melting into the rich salmon, a gentle hint of mustard and lemon cutting through the richness just right. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to pause, savor, and appreciate the quiet moments at the end of a hectic day. You don’t have to be a chef to bring this kind of magic to your table. It’s simple, yet elegant, and always feels a little like a celebration of the everyday.
- Rich and velvety sauce perfectly complements flaky, tender salmon.
- Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time.
- Elegant enough for guests but cozy enough for weeknights.
- Lemon zest and parsley add fresh brightness to each bite.
- Comforting flavors that satisfy without overwhelming.
If you’re craving a dinner that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this baked creamy salmon is your go-to. Plus, it reheats well, so you can enjoy the leftovers without losing any of that creamy goodness.
PrintBaked Creamy Salmon
A rich and flavorful baked salmon dish cooked in a creamy garlic sauce, perfect for a comforting and elegant meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets, skin on, about 6 ounces each
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish skin-side down.
Season the salmon fillets evenly with salt and black pepper.
In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salmon.
Serve the baked creamy salmon immediately with your choice of side dishes.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon fillets? Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely before baking for even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge for up to two days and reheats gently without losing flavor.
Can I swap heavy cream for a lighter option? While heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness, you could try half-and-half for a lighter version, but expect a thinner sauce.
What sides pair well with this dish? Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad all complement the creamy salmon beautifully.
Ready to bring a touch of comfort and elegance to your dinner table? Save this recipe and make tonight’s meal something to look forward to.