Growing up in a coastal Italian village, seafood was a staple on our table, especially fresh-caught salmon. My nonna used to make a garlic-butter infused pasta that would fill the kitchen with an aroma so heavenly, it felt like a warm hug. This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta is my love letter to those memories – a dish that’s comforting, indulgent, and so easy to whip up, it feels like a weeknight cheat code.
Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself after a long day, this creamy pasta with flaky salmon and a touch of garlic butter is pure magic.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Season: Ideal for cooler months (Autumn & Winter)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Focus Keyword: Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta
🛒 Ingredients
the Pasta:
- 250g (9 oz) fettuccine or linguine
- Salt, for boiling water
the Garlic Butter Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (skinless, about 150g each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of half a lemon
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon in the pan and cook for 4 minutes on one side.
- Flip the salmon, reduce heat to medium, and add butter and garlic. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the salmon as it finishes cooking (about 3-4 minutes).
- Remove and flake the salmon into large chunks. Set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (1 minute).
- Pour in the cream and stir until it starts to simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Mix in Italian seasoning, pasta water, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Gently fold in the flaked salmon, letting it heat through.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overcook the salmon: It should flake easily but still be moist.
- Cheese matters: Use fresh Parmesan for that creamy, nutty depth.
- Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Perfect Pairings
- Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the richness.
- Side: Garlic bread or a simple arugula salad.
Share Your Twist!
Did you try this Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon Pasta? Maybe you added spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes? Snap a photo and tag us on Instagram – we’d love to see your version!