This Baked Boursin Salmon is a tasty and easy dish to make. Fresh salmon fillets are topped with creamy Boursin cheese, giving them a rich and flavorful twist.
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to put together. Just pop it in the oven, and you get a fancy meal without the fuss. It’s great with a side of veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: I prefer using fresh salmon fillets since they cook beautifully and stay moist. If fresh isn’t available, frozen fillets work too—just make sure they’re thawed before cooking.
Boursin Cheese: This creamy garlic and herb cheese is the star of the dish. If you can’t find it, try using cream cheese blended with herbs, or even feta for a tangy twist. Just remember, the flavor will change slightly!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or even full milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit thinner, so you may want to reduce it on the stovetop before pouring it in.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These are optional but add a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work, but the texture will be different. I also love adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Stays Moist?
Keeping your salmon moist is key to a delicious dish. Here are some tips to help:
- Make sure not to overcook your salmon. It should flake easily but still be slightly opaque and tender inside.
- Pour the cream around the salmon instead of directly on top. This keeps the fish hydrated as it cooks.
- If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer. Salmon should reach an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C) when done.
Baked Boursin Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 oz Boursin cheese (garlic and herb flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs (optional for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Boursin Salmon recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes in the oven. So in about 30 minutes, you can serve a fancy dish that feels special, yet is super easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your salmon goes in!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
3. Season the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs over the fillets. Don’t forget the minced garlic—it adds a yummy flavor!
4. Add the Boursin Cheese:
Spread an even layer of Boursin cheese on top of each salmon fillet. This will melt beautifully and add a creamy texture.
5. Pour in the Cream:
Carefully pour the heavy cream (or half-and-half) around the salmon in the dish—not directly on top. This helps keep the salmon moist as it cooks.
6. (Optional) Top with Panko:
If you love a crunch, sprinkle panko bread crumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping. It gives a lovely texture contrast!
7. Bake the Salmon:
Put the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes. You know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once the salmon is out of the oven, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or thyme and add the lemon slices on top. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your delightful meal!
This recipe combines the richness of Boursin cheese with tender baked salmon, resulting in a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about an hour before cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salmon with the Boursin cheese and creamy sauce in advance, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave. Make sure to cover with foil to prevent drying out in the oven!
What Can I Serve with Baked Boursin Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, rice, or a fresh green salad. Its creamy sauce also goes great with crusty bread for dipping!