Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe – Creamy Dinner Idea

If you’re looking for a restaurant-style salmon dinner that’s easy to make, loaded with healthy ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes, this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is your new go-to. It’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even date night at home.

With heart-healthy omega-3 rich salmon, nutrient-dense spinach, savory mushrooms, and a velvety garlic cream sauce, this dish delivers on flavor and nutrition. Plus, it fits perfectly into low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly diets—no compromises needed.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

  • Quick & Simple: Just 30 minutes start to finish.
  • One Skillet = Fewer Dishes.
  • Healthy & Hearty: High protein, low carb, and packed with greens.
  • Keto & Gluten-Free: Perfect for special diets.
  • Versatile for Weeknights or Guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need For This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this crowd-pleasing salmon dinner:

  • 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup light cream (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • low-sodium chicken broth

Ingredient Swaps & Variations:

Add red chili flakes for a spicy twist.

Substitute salmon with trout or halibut for variety.

Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe – Creamy Dinner Idea
Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe – optimalrecipes.com

How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms

Step 1: Season the Salmon

  • Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy searing.
  • Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

  • In a large non-stick or cast iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Place the salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

  • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
  • Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned and soft.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

  • Add fresh spinach and stir gently until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

  • Pour in broth and lemon juice to deglaze the pan.
  • Stir in the cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Return the Salmon

  • Gently return the salmon fillets to the pan and spoon the sauce, mushrooms, and spinach over the top.
  • Cook another minute or two to warm through, then serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Cooking the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

  • Use room temperature salmon for even cooking.
  • Sear skin-side down first to get crispy skin and prevent sticking.
  • Deglaze with chicken broth .
  • Don’t overcook cream—simmer gently to avoid curdling.
  • Add Parmesan cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for variations.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

Here are some great sides to complete the dish:

  • Garlic mashed cauliflower (for keto)
  • Lemon herb rice or wild rice pilaf
  • Buttered noodles or angel hair pasta
  • Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans
  • A crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette

👉 Also try this Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe for the perfect side dish.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 490 kcal
  • Protein: 38g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Net Carbs: 5g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g

Storage, Meal Prep & Leftovers

How to Store Leftovers:

  • Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Best not to freeze cream sauce, but you can freeze cooked salmon separately.

Reheating Tip: Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep sauce smooth.

Meal Prep Hack: Cook salmon and vegetables separately, store sauce separately for better texture on reheating

FAQs For This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What’s a good cream substitute?

Try coconut cream, Greek yogurt (for a tangy twist), or cashew cream.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or paprika for heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep everything and cook right before serving. Best to make the sauce fresh.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich, and easy-to-cook recipe that fits right into a busy lifestyle. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this one-pan wonder is a sure hit.

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Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe – Creamy Dinner Idea

Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe – Creamy Dinner Idea


Description

If you’re looking for a restaurant-style salmon dinner that’s easy to make, loaded with healthy ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes, this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is your new go-to. It’s a one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even date night at home.

 

With heart-healthy omega-3 rich salmon, nutrient-dense spinach, savory mushrooms, and a velvety garlic cream sauce, this dish delivers on flavor and nutrition. Plus, it fits perfectly into low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly diets—no compromises needed.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup light cream (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
  • low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 🔁 Ingredient Swaps & Variations:
  • Substitute salmon with trout or halibut for variety.
  • Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Add red chili flakes for a spicy twist.

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Salmon

  • Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy searing.

  • Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

  • In a large non-stick or cast iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.

  • Place the salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

  • Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

  • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.

  • Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned and soft.

  • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

  • Add fresh spinach and stir gently until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

  • Pour in the white wine or broth and lemon juice to deglaze the pan.

  • Stir in the cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

  • Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Return the Salmon

 

  • Gently return the salmon fillets to the pan and spoon the sauce, mushrooms, and spinach over the top.

  • Cook another minute or two to warm through, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use room temperature salmon for even cooking.

  • Sear skin-side down first to get crispy skin and prevent sticking.

  • Deglaze with white wine for extra flavor (but chicken broth works too).

  • Don’t overcook cream—simmer gently to avoid curdling.

 

  • Add Parmesan cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for variations.

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