If you’re craving a vibrant, creamy dish that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes, look no further than this Creamy Lemon Basil Salmon Skillet. This easy, one-pan salmon recipe is packed with fresh flavor — from zesty lemon to aromatic garlic and sweet basil — all swimming in a rich cream sauce that will have you licking the spoon. It’s no wonder this dish is trending on dinner tables everywhere. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply seeking a new way to enjoy salmon, this recipe is about to become your weeknight favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Basil Salmon Skillet Recipe
- Easy One-Pan Meal – Everything cooks in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup and more flavor.
- Light Yet Creamy – The lemon and basil brighten up the creamy sauce, making it refreshing, not heavy.
- Perfect for Weeknights or Date Nights – Ready in 25 minutes but impressive enough for guests.
- Wholesome and Nutritious – Salmon is loaded with omega-3s and pairs beautifully with fresh herbs.
- Versatile Pairings – Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Creamy Lemon Basil Salmon Skillet
Here are the star ingredients that make this dish shine:
- Salmon Fillets – The protein-rich centerpiece; tender, flaky, and beautifully seared for flavor.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Brings sweet, herbal brightness to balance the richness of the cream.
- Lemon Zest & Juice – Adds vibrant citrus notes that lift the sauce and cut through the creaminess.
- Garlic – Sautéed in the pan for bold, savory depth that builds the sauce’s foundation.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a silky, luscious base that ties all the ingredients together.
- Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce for nutty, salty depth and added creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Lemon Basil Salmon Skillet
- Season & Sear the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Set aside. - Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds), being careful not to burn it. - Deglaze & Build the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth (or dry white wine) to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Add heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well and simmer until slightly thickened. - Return Salmon & Add Basil
Place salmon fillets back into the skillet and spoon sauce over each piece. Add fresh basil leaves and simmer for another 2–3 minutes. - Serve & Garnish
Finish with extra lemon zest and a few basil leaves for a beautiful presentation. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, let the salmon rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add Heat: Toss in red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat coconut milk and skip the Parmesan.
- Low-Carb Friendly: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Make It Saucy: Double the sauce if you plan to serve this over pasta.
- Swap the Herb: Try fresh dill or tarragon for a different flavor twist.
How to Store & Reheat
Store: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the salmon.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Creamy Lemon Basil Salmon Skillet, you’ll definitely want to try more flavorful seafood dishes from our kitchen:
- Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A decadent seafood dinner packed with rich stuffing and bold flavor.
- Easy Baked Salmon Recipe – A simple, go-to salmon dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet – Light, flaky fish in a bright lemony butter sauce that melts in your mouth.
Give them a try and build your own seafood dinner rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before searing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I substitute the cream with milk?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. For best results, use half-and-half or add a bit of cornstarch slurry to thicken.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as the broth and cheese you use are certified gluten-free.
What sides go best with this dish?
It’s delicious with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
If you love creamy, flavorful meals that are both elegant and effortless, this Creamy Lemon Basil Salmon Skillet is a must-try. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to serve for guests. Give it a try, and let us know in the comments how you served yours. Don’t forget to follow us for more delicious, easy recipes!
Creamy Lemon Basil Salmon Skillet
Ingredients
- – 4 salmon fillets skinless
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – 1 tablespoon olive oil
- – 2 cloves garlic minced
- – ¾ cup heavy cream
- – ¼ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- – Zest of 1 lemon
- – 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- – ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- – Handful of fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add chicken broth, scraping any browned bits. Stir in cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return salmon to skillet and spoon sauce over each piece.
- Add fresh basil leaves and simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
- Garnish with extra basil and lemon zest. Serve warm.
Notes
– Coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan work well for a dairy-free option.
– Great served with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.