Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
I’m so excited to share this Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe with you because, honestly, it’s become one of my absolute go-to dishes when I want something quick, flavorful, and just downright comforting. The creamy, garlicky Boursin sauce combined with the tender salmon—it’s comfort food and elegance all rolled into one skillet. Stick around, and I’ll walk you through making this fan-freaking-tastic meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The garlic herb Boursin cheese melts into a luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with the mild salmon.
- Simple, Quick Cooking: Using one skillet means minimal cleanup and a fast turnaround without sacrificing depth of flavor.
- Versatility: You can swap out sides or tweak the herbs and lemon for your own spin, making it truly your own creation.
- Reliable Technique: The method of searing the salmon then simmering in sauce ensures tender, moist fish every time, even if you’re new to cooking salmon.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe hinges on fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create something truly impressive. Each component plays a role, whether it’s enhancing the salmon’s flavor or building that creamy sauce we all love.
- Fresh Salmon: Opt for firm, fresh salmon cut into even pieces to ensure even cooking and flaky texture.
- Garlic Powder: A subtle garlic boost that complements the Boursin without overpowering it.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential basics—season well to bring out all the flavors, but remember you can always adjust later.
- Olive Oil & Butter: The perfect duo for searing fish, providing both flavor and a nice golden crust.
- Chopped Onion: Adds sweetness and body to the sauce once sautéed until lightly golden.
- Chicken Broth: Creates a savory base and thins the sauce for just the right consistency.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh acidity brightens the rich sauce and balances the flavor.
- Boursin Fine Herbs & Garlic Cheese: The star ingredient—this creamy cheese melts into a flavorful, herb-studded sauce that’s so easy to make.
- Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a dash of herbaceous freshness at the end.
Make It Your Way
One of my favorite things about this Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe is how easy it is to make your own tweaks. I’ve played around with the herbs and even swapped in different types of cheese when Boursin wasn’t in the fridge. Don’t be afraid to customize it to your taste—it’s forgiving and flexible.
- Variation: I’ve found that swapping the parsley for fresh dill gives the dish a Scandinavian twist that’s delightful—especially if you love dill with salmon.
- Dietary Modifications: If you want a dairy-free version, try a vegan cream cheese alternative mixed with garlic and herbs, though it changes the flavor slightly.
- Seasonal Changes: During summer, adding fresh tomatoes or asparagus in the skillet before the sauce forms adds some garden-fresh sweetness and crunch.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Salmon Like a Pro
First things first, take your salmon out of the fridge about 15-30 minutes before cooking if you can—this helps it cook evenly. Cut it into four pieces, pat them dry with paper towels (this helps get a nice sear), then season each piece with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Trust me, seasoning is your best friend here.
Step 2: Sear Salmon to Golden Perfection
Heat up your skillet on medium-high, melt in the butter with olive oil, and once it’s shimmering, add the salmon pieces skin-side down if they have skin. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust but are still a little undercooked inside. Don’t worry; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Then, remove them to a plate to rest.
Step 3: Build the Savory Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly golden—this adds depth to your sauce. Then pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice and stir in the softened Boursin cheese. Keep stirring gently until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Let it bubble for 4-5 minutes to marry all those flavors.
Step 4: Finish Cooking the Salmon in Sauce
Slide the seared salmon back into the skillet with the sauce. Turn the heat down to medium-low, spoon some sauce over the fish, and let it cook gently for 3-5 more minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the sauce thickens a bit more. Toss in the chopped parsley for that fresh pop right before serving. Don’t forget to taste and season with extra salt and pepper if needed.
Tips from My Kitchen
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Getting the fish dry before seasoning helps create that golden crust that makes all the difference.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly; I always remove it from heat a bit early since it finishes cooking in the sauce.
- Boursin Softening: Bring your Boursin cheese to room temperature before adding it into the sauce. This makes melting super smooth and even.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it up—better than rushing and ending up dry.
How to Serve Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
I love garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley because it adds that gorgeous bright color and fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the Boursin sauce. Sometimes I add a wedge of lemon on the side for anyone who wants even more zing!
Side Dishes
This skillet shines next to simple, fresh sides like steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or buttery mashed potatoes. I’ve also had it with a light quinoa salad when I felt like something a bit healthier but still filling—works like a charm every time.
Creative Ways to Present
For special dinners, I’ve served this salmon over a bed of saffron-infused rice or arranged the pieces with colorful grilled veggies around the edges. A drizzle of extra sauce on top and a sprinkle of microgreens takes it from everyday to restaurant-worthy in minutes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When I have leftovers (which actually don’t stick around long), I store the salmon and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge. It holds up well for 2 days, but the fresher, the better!
Freezing
I’ve frozen the cooked salmon with sauce when needed, but I noticed a slight change in texture once thawed. The sauce retains its creaminess, but the fish is best fresh or refrigerated for a day or two.
Reheating
Reheating gently on the stove over low heat works best to warm the Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe without drying out the salmon. I pour a splash more broth or a bit of milk to loosen the sauce and cover the pan to keep moisture in. Microwave can work but requires short intervals and stirring.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s best to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking so you get that nice sear. Frozen salmon tends to release more moisture, which can prevent browning if not dried well.
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What if I can’t find Boursin cheese?
If Boursin isn’t available, try a combination of cream cheese mixed with minced garlic and finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme to mimic the flavor and texture. It won’t be exact but still delicious.
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How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still feels moist and tender. Typically, after searing 3-4 minutes per side and finishing 3-5 minutes in the sauce, you’ll hit that ideal texture. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
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Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other firm, meaty fish like cod, halibut, or trout. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness to avoid over- or undercooking.
Final Thoughts
This Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe has earned a special place in my weeknight rotation because it’s just that good—creamy, tasty, and fast. Whenever I serve it, people always ask for the recipe because it tastes way more complicated than it really is. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every luscious bite like we do in my kitchen. Trust me, it’ll quickly become your new favorite salmon dish!
Print
Boursin Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Description
A rich and flavorful Boursin Salmon recipe featuring pan-seared salmon with a creamy garlic and herb Boursin cheese sauce, perfect for an elegant main course dinner.
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 to bring it to room temperature. Cut it into 4 pieces. Pat each piece dry thoroughly and season evenly with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the salmon: Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the salmon pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the onions: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and lightly golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, then add the softened Boursin cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let the sauce bubble for about 4-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add parsley and return salmon: Stir in the chopped parsley into the sauce. Return the salmon pieces to the skillet, turning the heat down to medium-low, and cook for another 3-5 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through, flakes easily with a fork, and the sauce has thickened further.
- Final seasoning and serve: Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the salmon immediately with the creamy Boursin sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- The recipe is designed for salmon pieces approximately 1 inch thick; adjust searing time slightly for thicker or thinner pieces.
- If your salmon has skin and you prefer not to eat it, peel it off after searing while the fish is still warm.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 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: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
