Creamy Salmon Pasta: Your New Favorite Easy & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Indulge in a truly exquisite yet surprisingly simple dish that brings gourmet flavor right to your kitchen table. This **Creamy Salmon Pasta** is a culinary delight, featuring succulent, tender salmon morsels perfectly complemented by vibrant spinach and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all harmoniously blended with al dente pasta in a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a dish that effortlessly marries heartiness with a delicate lightness, making it ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Prepare to be amazed by how much flavor can be packed into a meal ready in under an hour!
Why This Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe is a Must-Try
This **salmon pasta recipe** isn’t just easy; it’s a triumph of flavor and convenience. We’ve crafted it to be simple and straightforward, yet it bursts with an incredible depth of taste thanks to a few key elements. The star, of course, is the tender, flaky salmon, which brings a rich, oceanic note and a dose of healthy omega-3s. But what truly elevates this dish is the masterful combination of sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce that coats every strand of pasta and every piece of fish.
Around here, we’re absolutely passionate about salmon, and when you pair it with pasta, it creates a meal that truly sings! This dish strikes the perfect balance: it’s hearty and satisfying enough to be a fulfilling main course, yet the salmon remains light and flaky, avoiding any heavy feeling. It offers a sophisticated taste profile that might suggest hours in the kitchen, but in reality, it comes together in just about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll impress everyone, including yourself, with a dish that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant, all made with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how you can create this culinary magic!
Key Ingredients for Your Creamy Salmon Pasta
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful **creamy salmon pasta**. You’ll find all precise measurements, specific ingredients, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post. Having everything prepped and ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth and enjoyable process.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient and its role is key to mastering this **creamy salmon pasta** and adapting it to your taste or what you have on hand.
- SALMON – For consistent cooking and perfectly sized bites, I highly recommend using center-cut salmon. This ensures all your salmon cubes are uniform, leading to even cooking in the pan. Always ensure your salmon is completely thawed before seasoning and cooking. This prevents the seasonings from slipping off and allows for a beautiful sear. Fresh or frozen (thawed) salmon fillets work wonderfully. Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, making this a healthy and satisfying meal.
- SAUCE BASE – The luscious sauce is a simple yet effective blend of half-and-half, grated Parmesan cheese, and a touch of all-purpose flour. Half-and-half provides a creamy richness without being as heavy as full cream, striking a perfect balance. The flour acts as a gentle thickener, giving the sauce that silky, coating consistency. The Parmesan cheese adds a fantastic savory depth and umami flavor. If you don’t have half-and-half, you can easily create your own by mixing equal parts heavy cream and whole milk. For a slightly different twist, you could even experiment with a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth for added complexity.
- PASTA – While we opted for classic spaghetti in this recipe, the beauty of **salmon pasta** is its versatility with various pasta shapes. Feel free to substitute with your favorite! Angel hair pasta offers a delicate texture, fettuccine or linguine provide a broader surface area for the sauce, while bowtie (farfalle) or penne pasta are excellent choices for trapping the creamy sauce in their nooks and crannies. The most important tip for any pasta is to cook it al dente – firm to the bite – to ensure it holds up well in the sauce and doesn’t become mushy.
- SUN-DRIED TOMATOES & SPINACH – These add crucial bursts of color and flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes, especially those packed in oil, offer a concentrated sweet and tangy punch that complements the salmon and cream beautifully. Fresh spinach wilts down quickly, adding a touch of earthiness and essential nutrients. Don’t be shy with the spinach; it shrinks a lot!
- SEASONINGS – Garlic salt, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper form the base of flavor for the salmon. Old Bay offers a unique blend of spices that really enhances seafood. If you don’t have Old Bay, a pinch of paprika, onion powder, and a dash of cayenne can create a similar aromatic profile. Fresh garlic, minced, can also be used in the sauce for an even more potent flavor.
Crafting Your Delicious Creamy Salmon Pasta
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to guide you visually through the process of making this incredible **creamy salmon pasta**. For the full printable recipe, including exact measurements and a complete list of instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- Begin by carefully cutting your salmon fillets into uniform cubes. Aim for pieces roughly 1-inch in size to ensure they cook evenly and integrate well with the pasta.
- In a medium bowl, combine the garlic salt, Old Bay seasoning, and freshly ground black pepper with the olive oil. This creates a flavorful coating for your salmon.
- Add the salmon cubes to the bowl with the seasoned olive oil mixture. Gently toss the salmon to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. This step is crucial for building flavor and achieving a delicious crust on the salmon.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add the seasoned salmon cubes. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully browned and cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your cubes. Once done, remove the cooked salmon from the skillet and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Set aside.
- Reduce the heat slightly and pour the half-and-half into the same skillet, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom – these add extra flavor to your sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the all-purpose flour and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to whisk constantly to ensure there are no lumps and the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for a minute or two until it begins to thicken.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, incorporating their tangy sweetness into the creamy sauce. Bring the sauce back to a gentle boil for a moment, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce. Stir continuously until the spinach just begins to wilt, transforming from bright green to a softer, darker hue. This usually takes only a minute or two.
- Finally, add your cooked al dente spaghetti noodles and the reserved salmon chunks back into the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir to combine everything, ensuring the pasta and salmon are thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce. Heat through for another minute or two until everything is warm and ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Creamy Salmon Pasta
To maintain its deliciousness, store any cooled leftover **creamy salmon pasta** in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I highly recommend using the stovetop over low heat, stirring very frequently until it’s warmed through. This method helps the sauce remain creamy and prevents the salmon from drying out. While you *can* use the microwave, be cautious as reheating salmon in the microwave often leads to a drier texture. Due to the dairy content in the cream sauce, I would strongly advise against freezing this dish, as dairy-based sauces tend to separate and become grainy upon thawing and reheating.
Absolutely! Frozen salmon works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cubing and seasoning. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or by placing it in a sealed bag under cold running water for a quicker method. Pat it very dry with paper towels before seasoning to help the spices adhere and achieve a better sear.
If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally. If it’s still too thin, you can create a slurry of 1 teaspoon of flour mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute until thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can easily thin it out by adding a splash of warm milk, reserved pasta water, or even a little chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Yes, this recipe is very adaptable! Sliced mushrooms, asparagus spears, peas, or even finely chopped bell peppers would be excellent additions. Sauté tougher vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers with the salmon or before adding the half-and-half. Softer vegetables like peas or blanched asparagus can be added along with the spinach.
The key is not to overcook it! Salmon cooks relatively quickly. When sautéing, cook the cubes for 3-4 minutes per side until they are nicely browned and easily flake with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Since you’re cutting it into cubes, it will cook even faster than a whole fillet, so keep a close eye on it.
Delightful Serving Suggestions
This **creamy salmon pasta** is a complete meal on its own, but it truly shines when paired with a few thoughtful sides. Serve it straight from the pan, piping hot, for the best experience. A generous hunk of crusty bread or warm, buttery garlic bread is absolutely essential for soaking up every last drop of that incredible Parmesan cream sauce. For a refreshing contrast, a crisp, fresh dinner salad with a light vinaigrette makes an excellent accompaniment, cutting through the richness of the pasta. You can also elevate the presentation and flavor with optional garnishes: a final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a scattering of chopped fresh parsley or dill, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. If you appreciate a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes on top will add a delightful kick. Don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to perfectly complement the salmon and creamy sauce.
More Irresistible Pasta Recipes to Explore
If you loved this **creamy salmon pasta**, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of delicious pasta dishes that are just as easy to make and bursting with flavor. Explore these other favorites:
- Easy Shrimp Pasta
- Luxurious Scallop Pasta
- Classic Shrimp Scampi Pasta
- Simple Garlic Butter Pasta
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, creating and perfecting recipes, and then sharing those culinary adventures with all of you! Remembering to come back each day for new inspiration can sometimes be tricky, which is why I’ve made it easy for you. I offer a convenient newsletter that delivers a brand-new recipe straight to your inbox every time I post. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes – you won’t want to miss a single one!
Salmon Pasta
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1.25 pounds center cut salmon
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- 1 Tablespoon all purpose flour
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes
- 1 cup raw spinach leaves
- 8 ounces spaghetti cooked al dente
Things You’ll Need
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Chef’s knife
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Large heavy bottomed skillet
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Whisk
Before You Begin
- I prefer to use center-cut salmon so my cubes are all evenly sized. That also means they cook at the same rate in the pan. You’ll want your salmon to be thawed completely that way the seasonings don’t slip off as it cooks.
- We used spaghetti, but you can easily substitute with your favorite pasta here. Angel hair, fettuccine, linguine, bowtie, penne… they’re all good!
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider reserving about half a cup of your pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to your sauce later if it needs to be thinned or emulsified for a richer texture.
Instructions
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Cut salmon into cubes.1.25 pounds center cut salmon
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Combine garlic salt, Old Bay, and black pepper with olive oil in a bowl.2 teaspoons garlic salt, 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 1/2 Tablespoons olive oil
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Add salmon to the bowl and toss to coat.
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Melt butter in skillet over medium high heat. Add salmon cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned on all sides. Remove from skillet to a paper towel lined plate.3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
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Add half and half to the skillet.1 1/2 cups half and half
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Whisk in flour and parmesan cheese. Bring to a boil.1 Tablespoon all purpose flour, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
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Add in sun dried tomatoes and bring back to a boil.1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes
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Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until it begins to wilt.1 cup raw spinach leaves
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Add cooked spaghetti noodles and salmon chunks and stir to combine, heat through.8 ounces spaghetti
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Store cooled leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring very often until warmed through. You can pop it in the microwave as well but reheating salmon in the microwave often dries it out. I would not recommend freezing this dish due to the dairy content in the sauce.
- Always make sure your salmon is completely thawed before cooking. This ensures even cooking and allows the seasonings to adhere properly.
- Don’t overcook your pasta! Al dente pasta holds up better in creamy sauces and provides a more satisfying texture.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water can thin it out perfectly while adding extra starch to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
Nutrition
There you have it – a magnificent **creamy salmon pasta** dish that promises to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Its blend of rich, comforting flavors with the delicate texture of salmon and fresh vegetables makes it a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick family meal or dazzling guests with its restaurant-quality appeal, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us!
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.