Tender salmon fillets baked with lemon butter, cream cheese, and Parmesan for a creamy, flavorful main dish.
# What You'll Need:
→ Salmon
01 - 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
02 - Salt, to taste
03 - Black pepper, to taste
→ Lemon Butter Sauce
04 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
07 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
08 - 2 oz cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Garnish
10 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
11 - Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
# Step-by-step Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Arrange fillets skin side down in the prepared baking dish.
02 - In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir immediately to release aroma without browning. Whisk in lemon juice, lemon zest, softened cream cheese, and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
03 - Spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over the top and sides of each salmon fillet, ensuring adequate coverage.
04 - Bake uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the sauce is bubbling and lightly golden at the edges.
05 - For a golden crust, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
06 - Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.
