Creamy Dill Baked Salmon

Creamy Dill Baked Salmon is a timeless dish that feels both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for weeknights and special dinners alike. At first glance, it looks simple. However, once baked, the tender salmon pairs beautifully with a silky dill sauce that feels indulgent yet fresh. Because the flavors are balanced, the dish never feels heavy.

Salmon has long been a staple in Nordic and coastal cuisines, especially when paired with fresh herbs and dairy-based sauces. Traditionally, dill was used not only for flavor but also to enhance freshness. Over time, this pairing became a classic across Europe and North America.

Meanwhile, baking the salmon ensures even cooking and keeps the fish moist. As a result, each bite is flaky, rich, and full of flavor. Whether served with roasted vegetables, rice, or crisp asparagus, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Most importantly, it’s approachable, reliable, and always impressive.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

1½ lb salmon fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
¾ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper

1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
¼ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper
3 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat and prepare:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets skin-side down, drizzle with olive oil, and season evenly with salt and pepper.

2. Bake the salmon:
Bake uncovered for 14–16 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 135–140°F. Remove from oven and rest while preparing the sauce.

3. Start the sauce:
Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.

4. Build the cream base:
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, then whisk in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until slightly thickened.

5. Finish with dill:
Remove sauce from heat and stir in fresh dill. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The sauce should be creamy, glossy, and aromatic.

6. Serve:
Spoon warm creamy dill sauce generously over the baked salmon just before serving. Garnish with extra dill if desired.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Cook salmon gently:
  Because salmon continues cooking as it rests, removing it slightly early ensures a moist, flaky texture instead of dryness.
• Keep the sauce silky:
  Simmer gently, not rapidly. As a result, the cream thickens smoothly without separating or becoming grainy.
• Add dill off heat:
  Fresh dill retains its bright flavor when added last, which keeps the sauce fresh, aromatic, and balanced.