Name: Creamy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This creamy skillet salmon features pan-seared fillets served over tender vegetables and finished with a smooth lemon butter sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The recipe offers a perfect balance of richness and freshness. The salmon remains moist and flaky, while the lemon butter sauce enhances the dish without masking the fish’s natural flavor. It is suitable for both casual dinners and refined meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salmon fillets
Butter
Olive oil
Garlic
Lemon juice
Chicken or vegetable broth
Heavy cream
Onion
Fresh parsley
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Season salmon with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear salmon until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic. Add broth and lemon juice, then stir in cream and butter. Simmer until slightly thickened. Return salmon to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Garnish with parsley.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes.
Cooking time: 20 minutes.

Variations

Add spinach or asparagus to the sauce for added texture. Coconut cream may be used as a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to preserve the salmon’s texture.

FAQs

What type of salmon works best?

Atlantic or sockeye salmon are ideal.

Can I bake instead of pan-sear?

Yes, though pan-searing enhances flavor.

Is the sauce very rich?

It is balanced by lemon acidity.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner.

Does this recipe freeze well?

Freezing is not recommended.

Can I add capers?

Yes, for additional brightness.

What vegetables pair well?

Green beans and potatoes are excellent.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes, though the flavor will differ.

Is this suitable for low-carb diets?

Yes.

Can I cook the salmon fully in the sauce?

Yes, on low heat.

Conclusion

Creamy skillet salmon with lemon butter sauce is a refined and satisfying dish that combines elegance with everyday practicality.

Creamy Skillet Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pan-seared salmon fillets cooked in a rich and creamy lemon butter sauce, finished in one skillet for an elegant yet easy weeknight dinner.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Season the salmon fillets on both sides with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes until golden.
Flip salmon and cook for another 2–3 minutes, then remove from skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the broth and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese.
Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return salmon to the skillet and spoon sauce over the fillets.
Cook for 2 more minutes until salmon is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.