Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Salmon

This rich and buttery pan-seared salmon is the crown jewel of all fish recipes. Crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, this 20-minute dinner feels like a five-star restaurant meal made right in your own kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant weekend dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, French, Japanese

Ingredients Notes

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 fresh lemon
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Lemon slices for serving

Notes

Always pat salmon completely dry before cooking for a perfect golden crust
Do not move the fish once it hits the pan for the first 4 minutes
Use a cast iron skillet for the best sear results
Wild-caught salmon delivers richer flavor than farmed