Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Medium
Intensity: Moderate

Description

Indulge in this rich and flavorful Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta, featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets tossed in a velvety garlic butter sauce with al dente pasta. This dish is restaurant-quality yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and a luscious cream sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

---

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or linguine pasta

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

---

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).

3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Place salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 4-5 minutes until crispy.

4. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily.

5. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Reduce heat to low, then stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

5. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time.

2. Flake the cooked salmon into large chunks and gently fold into the pasta.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

2. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Notes:

• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days (reheat gently with a splash of milk).

---

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta is a decadent yet balanced meal that’s perfect for date nights or impressing guests. The tender salmon, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create an unforgettable dish. Try it tonight—you won’t regret it!