Creamy Salmon Pasta combines tender salmon pieces with creamy sauce and tender pasta. It’s a comforting dish that’s quick to make and full of flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in.
I like to sprinkle a little extra dill on top because it makes the dish look pretty and taste fresh. I always laugh when I accidentally get sauce on my shirt—happy messes!
For a healthier twist, I add some spinach or peas. It’s an easy way to make this dish feel a little lighter and more colorful.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh or thawed salmon fillets are key for flavor and moisture. I like using wild salmon for richer taste, but farmed works too. If you’re short on time, smoked salmon adds a nice tang—just chop and toss.
Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and smooth. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even dairy-free coconut milk, but the flavor will be slightly different. I prefer heavy cream for richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce a vibrant, bold flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder is okay—just use half the amount. I love roasting garlic first for a sweeter taste, but fresh works best.
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine are perfect for this dish to hold the sauce. You can substitute with penne or even gluten-free pasta. Always salt your water generously to keep the pasta flavorful.
parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. I find that adding cheese at the end makes the sauce extra tasty and helps thicken it a bit.
How do I sear salmon without it drying out?
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels before cooking. Use medium-high heat and a little oil. Cook skin-side down first, pressing down gently so it doesn’t curl. Flip carefully after 3-4 minutes or when crispy. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.
- Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a little oil, then lay the salmon skin-side down.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
- Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let rest briefly to keep moist.
How to Make Creamy Salmon Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Salmon
- 8 ounces of fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound of salmon fillets, skin removed
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cream Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes | Cooking: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the salmon
Season salmon with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook salmon for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Flake into chunks.
3. Make the cream sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, and lemon juice. Stir and simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
4. Combine pasta and salmon
Add cooked pasta and salmon to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Garnish with parsley before serving.
