Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines tender salmon chunks with al dente fettuccine, all coated in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and elegance, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor using straightforward ingredients. The salmon brings a tender, buttery richness that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce, while the pasta adds a hearty base. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and easily adaptable with herbs, greens, or spice for a personalized touch.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 salmon fillets, cut into chunks
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
directions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. - Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon chunks with salt and pepper. Sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside. - Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt the butter, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. - Combine Pasta and Salmon
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick. Gently fold in the cooked salmon chunks. - Finish and Serve
Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness, if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2–3
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 560 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add greens: Stir in spinach or kale just before serving for extra nutrition.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the cream sauce.
- Cheese options: Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Pasta alternatives: Substitute linguine, tagliatelle, or penne if preferred.
- Herb upgrade: Add fresh dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it may dry out the salmon and cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
What cream works best for the sauce?
Use heavy cream for a rich, smooth texture. Light cream may result in a thinner sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the sauce and pasta can be prepped in advance and combined just before serving.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked salmon?
Yes, add it toward the end to warm through without overcooking.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be less rich and may require a thickener like flour or cornstarch.
How do I prevent the salmon from falling apart?
Handle it gently when folding into the pasta and avoid overcooking.
What’s the best wine to serve with this?
A chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy, garlicky flavors.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and check that your Parmesan is gluten-free.
What side dishes go well with this?
Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply scale all ingredients proportionally. Use a larger skillet for best results.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta is a refined, flavor-packed dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve. With rich salmon, a velvety sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a guaranteed hit for any dinner table. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a restaurant-style meal in the comfort of your home.
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Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
Description
Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta is a luxurious and satisfying dish that combines tender chunks of seared salmon with fettuccine pasta in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Perfect for a romantic dinner or weeknight indulgence, this recipe is packed with bold flavor and silky texture. Keywords: Creamy Garlic Salmon Pasta, salmon fettuccine recipe, garlic cream sauce pasta, seafood pasta dinner, easy salmon pasta.
Ingredients
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2 salmon fillets, cut into chunks
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8 oz fettuccine pasta
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Season salmon chunks with salt and pepper.
5. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
6. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter.
7. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
8. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes.
9. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth.
10. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
11. Toss cooked pasta into the cream sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
12. Gently fold in the seared salmon chunks.
13. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or bas
Notes
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Use skinless salmon for easier eating.
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Swap fettuccine for linguine, penne, or spaghetti if preferred.
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Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
