One-pan Salmon with Mushroom Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick, elegant dinner that’s rich in flavor and easy to clean up, this One-Pan Salmon with Mushroom Sauce is a winner. Perfectly seared salmon fillets are simmered in a creamy, garlicky mushroom sauce—comfort food made simple, all in one skillet. It’s the ideal dish for weeknights when you want something healthy yet indulgent.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Rich & Creamy – The mushroom sauce is velvety, savory, and deeply comforting.
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Perfectly Balanced – Protein-rich salmon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce come together beautifully.
Restaurant-Quality – Looks and tastes gourmet, but is simple enough for beginners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for color)

For the Mushroom Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini, white button, or a mix)
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream (depending on dietary preference)
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or thyme (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Tongs or spatula
• Small whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Paper towels (for patting salmon dry)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a golden sear.
Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on).
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and just cooked through.
Transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside. (Don’t worry if it’s slightly underdone—it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.)

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics & Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil or butter.
Add garlic and shallot; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes until they’re browned and tender.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add almond milk or cream and stir gently.
Simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Return the Salmon to the Pan
Gently nestle the seared salmon fillets back into the sauce.
Spoon some of the sauce over the fillets.
Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flaky.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.
Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook – Salmon cooks quickly; aim for an internal temp of 125–130°F for moist results.
Dry the Salmon – Patting it dry ensures a crispy exterior.
Use the Right Pan – A non-stick or stainless steel skillet works best for searing.
Customize the Cream – Use coconut milk for dairy-free, or cream for richness.

Serving Suggestions
Cauliflower Mash – A creamy, low-carb base that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans – Add brightness and crunch.
Zucchini Noodles – A light and healthy side that soaks up the sauce.
Wild Rice or Quinoa – Great for a hearty, wholesome meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

Reheating:
Stovetop – Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or milk.
Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals at 50% power to avoid drying out the salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes! Cod, halibut, or tilapia work well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.

2. What mushrooms work best?
Cremini and white button are great, but feel free to use shiitake or a wild mushroom mix for deeper flavor.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use olive oil or vegan butter and almond or coconut milk in place of cream.

4. Is this keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With low carbs and healthy fats, this dish fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.

5. Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Definitely. Try baby spinach, kale, or peas for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Salmon with Mushroom Sauce is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It’s quick enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and so delicious you’ll forget how healthy it is.
If you’re craving something comforting, creamy, and packed with good-for-you ingredients, this dish is your new go-to.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 370 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 430mg

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