Ultimate Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta Recipe – Easy One Pan Weeknight Dinner
Ultimate Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta Recipe – Easy One Pan Weeknight Dinner
This garlic butter salmon pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner that transforms simple ingredients into restaurant-quality comfort food. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan wonder combines flaky salmon with a rich buttery garlic sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. It’s the perfect solution when you want something impressive but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly special is how the salmon cooks right in the same pan as the pasta, infusing the entire dish with incredible flavor. The garlic butter sauce gets a bright lift from fresh lemon juice, creating a balanced sauce that’s rich but not heavy. This is the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 12 oz salmon fillets, skin removed
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, pat salmon dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
Step 3: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add salmon pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Step 7: Return salmon to the skillet along with Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon zest. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
Step 8: Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta
Choose the right salmon: Look for fresh, skinless salmon fillets that are evenly thick for consistent cooking. If you prefer a different seafood option, this recipe also works beautifully with other firm fish like cod or halibut.
Don’t overcook the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly and continues to cook after being removed from heat. Aim for slightly underdone as it will finish cooking when added back to the hot pasta.
Use the pasta water: The starchy pasta water is key to creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings perfectly to the noodles. Never skip this step!
If you love this simple seafood pasta, you might also enjoy our Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe for another delicious salmon dinner option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat it very dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What pasta shapes work best? Long pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work beautifully, but short shapes like penne or fusilli also work well for holding the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time? This dish is best served immediately, but you can prep the ingredients ahead. Cook the salmon and sauce components separately and combine just before serving.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.
For more easy weeknight dinner inspiration, check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or this comforting Creamy Salmon Pasta recipe. Both are perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying.
Ultimate Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta Recipe – Easy One Pan Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, pat salmon dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add salmon pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove salmon and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Return salmon to the skillet along with Parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon zest. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
