Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
If you’re craving something rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor that doesn’t require a complicated list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen, you’re going to love this Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe. I honestly don’t remember the first time I made it, but it quickly became my go-to salmon dinner whenever I want something that feels special without the fuss. So hang tight because I’m about to share all my favorites tips and a step-by-step that’ll have you mastering this mouthwatering dish in no time!
Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy Yet Light: The Boursin cheese melts into a velvety sauce without overpowering the delicate salmon flavor.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: A handful of everyday items combine to create an elegant, restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes.
- One-Pan Magic: Cooking everything in one skillet makes cleanup a breeze and layers flavors beautifully.
- Flexible Approach: You can easily customize seasoning and sides to fit your taste or what you have on hand.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe is all about combining fresh salmon with a luscious, garlicky cheese sauce — the kind that just begs to be mopped up with bread or spooned over some veggies. Each ingredient has a purpose, and I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure you get that perfect balance.
- Fresh Salmon: Opt for skin-on if you like it crispy, or skinless for easy eating. A one-inch thick portion cooks evenly and stays moist.
- Garlic Powder: It adds a subtle, consistent garlic hit that complements the Boursin rather than competing with it.
- Olive Oil & Butter: The combo gives you great searing heat and a rich, slightly nutty flavor base.
- Chopped Onion: Sautéed until golden, onions bring sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Chicken Broth: Keep it low sodium if you want better control over seasoning; it loosens the sauce and infuses savory flavor.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the whole dish — trust me on this, it’s the secret to cutting through the richness.
- Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese: This is the star! Creamy, garlicky, and herb-infused, it melts effortlessly creating a silky sauce.
- Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous notes that balance the creaminess.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love making this recipe “mine” by swapping out herbs or pushing up the garlic flavor when I’m craving something punchier. It’s super flexible, so don’t be shy about making it your own. Cooking should always fit your mood and pantry, right?
- Add a Kick: I sometimes toss a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce to jazz it up — perfect if you like a little heat.
- Herb Variations: Fresh dill or basil also work wonders instead of parsley; each brings a different summery vibe.
- Dairy-Free Swap: If you can’t have Boursin, try a dairy-free creamy spread with garlic and herbs for a similar effect.
- More Veggies: Throw in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrients.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Salmon Like a Pro
First things first, take your salmon out of the fridge about 15 to 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and keeps that buttery texture intact. I like to pat each piece dry really well with paper towels because moisture means it won’t sear nicely. Then sprinkle on the garlic powder, salt, and pepper so every bite is flavorful. Trust me: seasoning properly here sets you up for success.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon to Golden Perfection
Heat your skillet over medium-high and add the butter and olive oil — I love using both because the butter browns beautifully without burning thanks to the olive oil’s higher smoke point. When the skillet is hot and shimmering, place the salmon skin-side down (if it has skin). Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a gorgeous golden crust, but don’t fully cook it yet — we’ll finish it in the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Build the Sauce
With the salmon resting on a plate, toss the chopped onion into the skillet and sauté until golden and softened, about 5 minutes. Then pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the softened Boursin cheese right in the skillet until you get a smooth, creamy sauce bubbling away gently. This step is the magic — the cheese melts into that savory broth creating your silky finish.
Step 4: Finish the Salmon in the Garlic Boursin Sauce
Put the salmon back in the skillet, spooning some sauce over the pieces. Cook on low for another 3-5 minutes, just until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the sauce has thickened slightly. If you notice the sauce getting too thick, splash in a bit more chicken broth to loosen it. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for freshness and double-check the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Pro Tips for Making Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each salmon piece space when searing so you get that crisp golden crust, not a steamed fish.
- Use Room Temp Salmon: Letting the salmon sit before cooking helps avoid that cold center and encourages even cooking throughout.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or even water to loosen without losing flavor.
- Skin Removal Trick: If you don’t want the skin, sear the salmon skin-side down first and it’ll peel off easily afterward without tearing the flesh.
How to Serve Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
I always add a sprinkle of fresh parsley over the finished skillet — it adds that nice burst of color and fresh herbal flavor. Sometimes I’ll also zest a bit of lemon on top for an extra zing, especially if I’m serving guests who like sharp, bright notes with creamy dishes.
Side Dishes
Over time, I’ve figured out the perfect partners for this dish: roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp mixed green salad all complement the rich salmon beautifully. If I’m feeling lazy, I’ll serve it with warm crusty bread so I can soak up every bit of that fantastic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I like plating the salmon atop a bed of lemony quinoa or herbed couscous, then drizzling the sauce over everything. Adding a few edible flowers or microgreens can also elevate the look instantly, making it feel like a restaurant meal without the stress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftover salmon and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 2 days – just make sure to cool it before sealing. When I reheat, I add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce and give it a gentle warm-up on the stove instead of the microwave, which helps keep the salmon from drying out.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing the salmon once it’s cooked in this sauce because the texture can get a little mushy after thawing, and the sauce may separate. Instead, I freeze just the raw salmon pieces separately if I want to prep ahead, then make the sauce fresh when I’m ready to cook.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, I gently warm the skillet over low heat with a splash of extra chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy. Avoid high heat, which can overcook the salmon and break the sauce. Adding a tiny knob of butter at the end helps refresh the flavor and texture.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen salmon for the Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking. Using thawed salmon ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture that could hinder searing.
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What if I don’t have Boursin cheese?
You can substitute with cream cheese mixed with garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs like parsley and chives, and a pinch of salt for a similar creamy herb flavor, though Boursin’s unique texture and taste is what makes this recipe truly special.
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How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still looks moist and tender inside. Since you sear it before finishing in the sauce, it shouldn’t be overcooked – keep an eye on texture in the last few minutes of simmering.
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure your chicken broth and Boursin cheese are gluten-free (which most are) and avoid any added ingredients that contain gluten. This dish is naturally very gluten-friendly.
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What’s the best skillet to use for this recipe?
A heavy-bottomed non-stick or stainless steel skillet works great. A cast-iron skillet is also excellent for searing salmon evenly and retaining heat, just be sure to control the temperature to avoid burning the cheese sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that feels fancy without the fuss, making it a staple in my kitchen when I want to impress or simply treat myself. Its creamy garlic sauce paired with perfectly seared salmon always hits the spot and comes together so quickly that it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. I hope you’ll give it a try soon — I promise, once you make it, this skillet will be your new salmon obsession, too!
Print
Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Description
This Boursin Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets cooked to perfection and smothered in a creamy, herb-infused Boursin cheese sauce. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s a flavorful and elegant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 pound fresh salmon cut into 4 pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauce
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 3/4 cup chicken broth (use low sodium if sensitive to salt)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 (5.2 oz/150g) package Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic cheese softened
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Take the salmon out of the fridge 15-30 minutes prior to starting the recipe if possible. Cut it into 4 pieces. Pat each piece dry and season with the garlic powder and some salt & pepper.
- Sear the salmon: Add the butter and olive oil to a skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the salmon. Cook for 4 minutes on each side or until lightly browned. Do not overcook the fish; it shouldn’t be cooked fully yet. Transfer the salmon to a plate.
- Sauté the onions: To the skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened and lightly golden.
- Make the sauce: Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and the softened Boursin cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until you achieve a smooth sauce. Let it bubble gently for about 5 minutes, then stir in the chopped parsley.
- Finish cooking the salmon: Return the salmon back into the skillet with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for another 5 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The sauce should thicken further.
- Season and serve: Taste the sauce and season with additional salt & pepper if needed. Serve the salmon immediately with the creamy Boursin sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- This recipe is designed for salmon pieces approximately 1 inch thick. Adjust searing time longer for thicker fillets or shorter for thinner ones.
- If the salmon has skin and you prefer not to eat it, peel it off after searing.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
- Allowing the salmon to come to room temperature before cooking ensures more even cooking.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control salt levels if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 4 oz)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
