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salmon alfredo

salmon alfredo

This irresistible Salmon Alfredo is a creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Tender salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection, then nestled into a silky Parmesan Alfredo sauce and tossed with pasta for the ultimate comfort food. It’s budget-friendly, incredibly satisfying, and sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish, Dinner
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 people
Calories 1.262 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional, for color
  • 🍝 For the Alfredo Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream or half-and-half for lighter version
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated is best
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional, adds depth
  • 🍝 For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz fettuccine or linguine, penne, or pasta of your choice
  • Salt for boiling water
  • 2 tablespoons reserved pasta water optional, helps thin the sauce
  • 🌿 Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan
  • Lemon wedges for brightness

Notes

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Salmon Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
  3. Reserve 1–2 tablespoons of pasta water before draining.
  4. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil (or butter) in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Remove from skillet and set aside. Flake into chunks if desired.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  4. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
  6. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  1. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
  2. Gently fold in cooked salmon pieces.
  3. Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

  1. Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
  2. Optional: squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top for brightness.