If you’ve been searching for a dinner that feels both indulgent and nourishing, look no further than this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce Recipe. The flaky salmon fillets perfectly soak up a luscious, garlicky butter sauce filled with tender mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all brought together with a dreamy, cheesy creaminess. It’s an absolute showstopper that comes together quickly but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this dish, each adding depth and balance. From the rich salmon to the silky cream and punchy garlic, these essentials create a harmony of flavors and textures that make this recipe unforgettable.
- 4 salmon fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a mild fruitiness and helps get that perfect crispy sear.
- 3 tbsp butter: Boosts richness and helps develop the sauce’s silky texture.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic, savory kick.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Earthy mushrooms add a meaty texture and depth.
- 3 cups fresh spinach: Brightens the dish with color and a delicate leafy freshness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates that creamy, indulgent base for the sauce.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings umami richness and a slight tang.
- 1 tsp lemon juice: Adds a refreshing brightness to cut through the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Offers a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Salmon
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Generously season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side up in the hot oil. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are just cooked through. This step locks in the moisture and flavor, creating the perfect base for your creamy sauce. Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside, allowing you to focus on the sauce in the same flavorful pan.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter
Lower your heat to medium and melt the butter right in the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until it releases its intoxicating aroma. This quick sauté enhances the butter, transforming it into a fragrant canvas for your next ingredients and setting the tone for the entire dish.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll notice they soften and turn a deep golden color, soaking up that lovely garlic butter flavor. The mushrooms bring a hearty earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the salmon and creamy sauce.
Step 4: Wilt the Spinach
Now it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Stir it into the mushrooms and garlic mixture, cooking just until the leaves are wilted and tender—around 2 to 3 minutes. This step introduces a vibrant green freshness and keeps the dish balanced and light despite the creaminess.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, and add the lemon juice. Stir everything together, letting the sauce gently bubble and thicken for 2 to 3 minutes. The Parmesan melts into the cream, enriching the sauce with a delightful cheesy tang while the lemon juice brightens the overall flavor, preventing it from feeling too heavy.
Step 6: Return the Salmon to the Pan
Carefully nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning that luxurious creamy sauce over the top. This not only warms the salmon through again but also allows the fillets to soak up the delicious sauce flavors for maximum tastiness.
Step 7: Final Simmer
Allow the salmon and sauce to cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This final simmer helps everything meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is bursting with garlic butter goodness, tender spinach, and earthy mushrooms wrapped in creamy deliciousness.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbal brightness if you like, then serve immediately. The contrast of warm salmon, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs makes this dish feel comforting and elegant all at once.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can really elevate the presentation of this dish. Fresh parsley isn’t just visually appealing; its bright notes cut through the richness, giving each bite a fresh lift. A thin lemon wedge on the side can also be a nice touch for those who enjoy an extra zesty kick.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce Recipe pairs exceptionally well with light, fluffy sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes, garlic roasted baby potatoes, or even a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. For a veggie side, roasted asparagus or a crisp garden salad keeps the meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your dinner guests, try plating each salmon fillet atop a small nest of spiralized zucchini or angel hair pasta lightly tossed in olive oil. Drizzle extra sauce artistically around the plate and top with microgreens to add a gourmet feel without much extra effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the salmon and sauce together to maintain the flavor, but be aware that the spinach might wilt further and the sauce will thicken in the fridge.
Freezing
While salmon is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked portions of this dish if necessary. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and freeze for up to one month. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating carefully to preserve texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the creamy sauce from breaking. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the salmon tender and sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can swap fresh spinach for frozen, but be sure to thaw and drain it well first to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
What type of salmon works best for this recipe?
Wild-caught salmon fillets are ideal for their flavor and firm texture, but farmed salmon works well too. Just look for thick, evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
You can try half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option, although the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
While it adds a lovely depth of flavor, you can omit it or substitute with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano depending on your preference.
How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
This recipe is already low in carbs, but serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed veggies instead of potatoes or rice to keep it fully keto-friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce Recipe is truly a winner for anyone who loves rich, comforting food without complicated steps. It’s a one-pan wonder you’ll want to make over and over, a dish that feels like a special occasion yet fits perfectly into busy weeknights. Dive in and enjoy every buttery, garlicky, creamy bite!
Print
Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that brings together perfectly seared salmon fillets with a luscious creamy sauce, sautéed garlic, mushrooms, and fresh spinach. Ready in just 25 minutes, this elegant yet simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Fats
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
Sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and slightly browned.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted, mixing with the mushrooms and garlic butter.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Salmon Back: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the salmon to coat it thoroughly.
- Finish Cooking: Cook everything together for 2-3 minutes more, allowing the salmon to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon fillets for best results, but thawed frozen fillets also work well.
- If you prefer, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste, especially after adding the Parmesan cheese which is salty.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the butter and heavy cream, and use olive oil and coconut milk, respectively.
- Serve this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
