Creamy Garlic Parmesan Salmon Pasta
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Salmon Pasta is the kind of meal that feels luxurious yet is simple enough to prepare on a weeknight. Tender, golden-seared salmon rests over silky pasta coated in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of savory cheese, aromatic garlic, buttery salmon, and comforting pasta. It is a restaurant-quality dish that can easily be recreated at home with straightforward ingredients and minimal preparation time.
This dish works beautifully for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy date night at home. The combination of flaky salmon and creamy pasta feels indulgent without being overly complicated. When prepared properly, the salmon remains moist inside with a lightly crisp, golden exterior that contrasts perfectly with the smooth, velvety sauce.
Ingredients
2 salmon fillets, skin removed
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cutting the salmon into large cubes before cooking makes it easier to sear evenly and serve over pasta, but you can also cook the fillets whole and flake them later.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The salmon should be slightly crisp on the outside and tender inside. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
Pour in the chicken broth and allow it to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 4 to 5 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until the noodles are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Carefully return the salmon to the pan. Spoon the sauce over the salmon pieces and allow everything to warm together for another 1 to 2 minutes.
Finish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for Perfect Results
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and gives the sauce a better texture.
Do not overcook the salmon. Overcooked salmon can become dry. It is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still remains moist inside.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
For added flavor and texture, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Salmon Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also complements the creamy sauce. For a well-balanced meal, steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli makes an excellent side dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy texture. Warm gently over low heat or in short intervals in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Salmon Pasta brings together rich flavors and comforting textures in a dish that feels both elegant and satisfying. The combination of perfectly seared salmon and smooth, cheesy garlic sauce makes it a dependable favorite for any occasion. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it is a meal that consistently impresses with its flavor and presentation.