Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta

Creamy garlic butter salmon pasta transforms weeknight dinners into a luxurious treat without much effort. With tender salmon fillets, rich garlic butter sauce, and vibrant spinach all tossed with silky pasta, this dish feels special but comes together quickly. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something rich and comforting after a long day.

I started making this on hectic weeknights when my family was craving something better than takeout but I was short on time. Now it is our go-to for special occasions and cozy dinners alike.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti or fettuccine pasta: Use your favorite long pasta as it holds the creamy sauce beautifully. Opt for a high-quality dried or fresh variety for the best texture
• Salmon fillets: Look for fillets that are firm and bright with a fresh ocean scent for top flavor
• Unsalted butter: Has a clean sweet flavor and lets you control the saltiness of the dish
• Garlic fresh and minced: Brings depth and boldness to the sauce. Fresh makes a big difference here
• Heavy cream: Creates that luscious texture and rich taste. Always choose full-fat cream for best results
• Spinach: Brings color and nutrients. Fresh is delicate and quick-cooking but thawed frozen spinach works well too if squeezed dry
• Parmesan cheese grated: Adds savory notes and helps thicken the sauce. Use real Parmesan you grate yourself for maximum flavor
• Lemon zest and juice: Brightens all the creamy flavors. Try to use unwaxed fresh lemons
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer
• Fresh parsley: Finishes the dish with herby freshness and a pop of green
• Red pepper flakes optional: Gives just a bit of gentle heat if you like some spice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta. Cook until it is perfectly al dente so it still has a slight chew. Before draining the pasta reserve one cup of the hot cooking water which helps adjust your sauce later

Cook the Salmon:

Heat half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon on both sides with salt and pepper. When the butter is melted and begins to bubble lay the salmon in the pan skin-side down. Let it cook undisturbed for four to five minutes until the bottom is golden and the edges turn opaque. Flip and cook for another four to five minutes. When the salmon flakes easily with a fork it is done. Remove it from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly then use a fork to break it into large bite-size pieces

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Into the same skillet add the rest of the butter over medium heat. Once melted stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for a minute or two until the garlic is softened and fragrant but not browned which can turn it bitter

Make it Creamy:

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon zest lemon juice salt and pepper. Let this bubble for a few minutes so the sauce thickens slightly

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet tossing it with tongs until every strand is coated. If the sauce feels too thick add a splash of the reserved pasta water and stir well to loosen it up

Add Spinach and Salmon:

Scatter in the spinach and gently fold in the flaked salmon so everything is mixed together and the spinach wilts in the gentle heat

Serve:

Divide the creamy pasta among bowls and top with Parmesan fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of spice

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I always look forward to swirling strands of creamy pasta and finding a big flavorful piece of salmon on my fork. The flavor of browned butter and garlic reminds me of family holidays when we all gathered around the kitchen.

Storage Tips

Leftovers should be cooled then refrigerated in an airtight container. This pasta keeps well for up to two days. You can revive the sauce by adding a splash of cream or milk when reheating on the stove. For best texture reheat gently just until warm.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping the salmon for cooked shrimp or chicken if you prefer. For a lighter touch use half and half cream instead of full heavy cream but be aware that your sauce may be a bit thinner. Regular spinach is ideal but arugula or baby kale bring a similar green freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a complete meal on its own but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread. For extra brightness scatter more lemon zest over each bowl. If you enjoy wine a light pinot grigio matches this creamy salmon pasta perfectly.

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A dish that transforms weeknight dinners into something extraordinary with minimal effort and maximum indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Which pasta shape works best here?

Spaghetti and fettuccine are both excellent, as they hold the creamy sauce well. Penne or linguine are also good substitutes.

→ Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before seasoning and cooking for the best texture.

→ How can I make the sauce creamier?

Let the cream simmer gently to thicken. Adding a splash of reserved pasta water and extra parmesan also boosts creaminess.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Lemon zest brings brightness, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like parsley enhance freshness.

→ Can spinach be left out or substituted?

If preferred, omit spinach or use arugula, kale, or peas for a different twist while keeping the dish vibrant.