Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce: The Weeknight Wonder You’ll Crave Again and Again

When life’s busy, and dinner needs to wow without wearing you out, this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is your new best friend.
Not only is it a healthy salmon dish that feels indulgent, but it also delivers major flavor with minimal effort hello, weeknight dinner goals! Packed with protein, loaded with veggies, and drenched in a luscious creamy garlic sauce, this recipe checks all the boxes: high protein salmon meal, keto-friendly, and oh-so-easy to meal prep.

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, prepping ahead for your week, or just craving something rich and satisfying without the food coma, this dish will never disappoint. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a regular spot in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce

  • One skillet means fewer dishes and less cleanup. Bless.
  • Loaded with healthy fats and protein for those tracking macros or following keto recipes with salmon.
  • That creamy garlic sauce? Think of it as a cozy blanket for your salmon comforting, delicious, and dreamy.
  • Quick enough for a Tuesday, fancy enough for Friday date night.

Ingredients That Work as Hard as You Do

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why they make this dish shine:

  • Salmon fillets: The protein-packed star of the show. Go for skin-on for max flavor.
  • Oyster mushrooms (or your favorite mushroom): Earthy and meaty, they soak up the sauce beautifully.
  • Baby spinach: Adds vibrant color, fiber, and a dose of feel-good nutrients.
  • Onion & garlic: The flavor foundation. Always trust the classics.
  • Heavy cream & butter: That’s where the creamy magic happens hello, creamy garlic sauce!
  • Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and helps the sauce cling to every bite.

Note: Full list of ingredients with exact quantities is located directly below the article in the recipe card.

How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Salmon

Pat your salmon dry (it helps get that perfect sear) and season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt a generous dab of butter and place your fillets skin-side down. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In that same skillet (no need to clean it flavor bonus!), toss in sliced onion and mushrooms. Cook until they’re golden brown and a little caramelized. Add minced garlic and let it get fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in grated Parmesan. Stir gently to create that silky-smooth creamy garlic sauce we all dream about. Toss in the spinach and let it wilt just takes a minute or two!

Step 4: Finish Like a Pro

Add your seared salmon fillets back into the skillet. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over the top and let everything mingle for a few more minutes on low heat.

Serve warm, and don’t be afraid to scoop a little extra sauce onto your plate. It’s practically required.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: ~400–450 per serving (varies by portion size and cream used)
  • Protein: 35–40g per serving
  • Carbohydrates: Low (great for keto salmon recipes!)
  • Fat: Healthy fats from salmon, butter, and cream

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Pro Cooking Tips

  • If your sauce looks too thick, just add a splash of broth or more cream.
  • Swap oyster mushrooms for shiitake, cremini, or even baby bellas—whatever you have on hand!
  • Not a fan of spinach? Try kale or arugula.
  • Add a splash of white wine for extra oomph (and feel fancy doing it).

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines all by itself, but here are a few pairing ideas:

  • Over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash for a keto recipes salmon twist.
  • With steamed rice or quinoa for a healthy salmon meal prep that fuels your week.
  • Tucked into a bowl with roasted baby potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.

Make Ahead & Storage

This is one of those high protein salmon meal prep gems you’ll be glad you have in your fridge.

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual portions (minus the spinach for best texture) for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

A Little Story from My Kitchen

I first made this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce after a long day of grocery shopping, laundry folding, and toddler-chasing. I needed something nourishing and indulgent that didn’t require a PhD in culinary arts. This was born out of that sweet spot: minimal effort, maximum flavor (okay, I said “maximum” once I earned it). Now, it’s a family favorite. My husband calls it “fancy dinner night,” even when it’s a random Tuesday. I call it a win.

FAQ: Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before searing to get that crispy golden edge.

What mushrooms work best in this creamy sauce?
Oyster mushrooms are amazing, but cremini, white button, or shiitake work great too. Whatever you have on hand!

Is this considered a high protein salmon meal?
Yes! Each serving delivers a solid punch of protein perfect for post-workout meals or healthy fuel throughout the day.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Sure! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a vegan butter alternative. It’ll still be creamy and flavorful, with a slightly nuttier twist.

How do I make it even more keto-friendly?
This recipe is already very low in carbs, but you can double down by serving it over cauliflower rice or zoodles instead of grains.

Can I double the sauce for meal prep?
Oh yes, and you should! The sauce is delicious spooned over veggies, chicken, or even as a dip for roasted baby potatoes.

Is this a good healthy salmon option for kids?
Definitely! The creamy sauce masks the “fishy” flavor, and you can chop the spinach finely so it’s more kid-friendly. Bonus: it’s packed with nutrients.

Can I add pasta to this for a more filling meal?
Go for it! This sauce is amazing with fettuccine, penne, or even a veggie-based pasta. Just keep the creamy consistency in mind add a bit more liquid if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a healthy salmon recipe that hits all the marks easy, flavorful, high in protein, and perfect for keto or low-carb lifestyles this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is your answer. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together, even when your socks don’t match.

So go ahead, pour a glass of wine (or sparkling water), and let this dish become your new weeknight hero.

💬 Ingredients and exact quantities are listed below in the recipe card. Happy cooking!

More Creamy & Comforting Mains to Try Next

Enjoyed this rich and savory Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce? Here are a few more delicious meals to add to your weeknight rotation. Keep things garlicky with our cozy Honey Garlic Chicken, a sticky-sweet dish that’s always a hit. Looking for another creamy comfort option? Our Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf brings bold flavors and satisfying texture. Craving easy one-pan meals? The hearty Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a go-to.

If seafood is your vibe, check out our fun and informative Salmon Sushi Order Guide to explore different ways to enjoy your favorite fish. And don’t forget to pair it all with our zesty, aromatic Garlic Basil Pesto Recipe perfect for spooning over veggies, pasta, or more salmon!

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High Protein Salmon Meal Prep A succulent, golden-brown grilled salmon fillet is the star of this dish, draped in a velvety herb-infused cream sauce. The fish rests on a bed of sautéed vegetables, likely spinach and potatoes, adding depth and color. The seared crust and creamy topping create a delicious contrast of texture and flavor.

Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce


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  • Author: Chef Tima
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A rich, creamy, one-skillet dish that brings together garlic butter salmon, sautéed spinach, and earthy mushrooms in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend dinners, this healthy salmon recipe is high in protein, keto-friendly, and great for meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 56 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 pound oyster mushrooms, sliced (or substitute with cremini, shiitake, or white mushrooms)
  • 3 cups baby spinach leaves, loosely packed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing salmon if not using all butter)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, to brighten the flavor)

Instructions

  • Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
  • In a skillet, melt butter and sear salmon (skin-side down) 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pan, sauté sliced onion and mushrooms until soft and golden. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  • Pour in heavy cream and add parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  • Toss in baby spinach and let it wilt.
  • Return salmon to the skillet. Spoon sauce over top and let it warm through.
  • Serve hot with your favorite side or low-carb base.

Notes

  • Make it dairy-free by swapping cream with coconut cream and using vegan cheese/butter.
  • Add chili flakes or lemon zest for a flavor boost.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with sauce
  • Calories: 420kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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