Garlic Herb Butter Salmon Steaks with Parmesan Recipe
Introduction
Salmon steaks are a delicious and healthy option for a quick dinner. This recipe combines seared salmon with fragrant herbs, butter, and a touch of parmesan for a flavorful finish. It’s simple to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients
- 4 8-oz Salmon steaks (1 inch thick)
- 2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 3 tbsp Unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tbsp Grated parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to Broil on High. Pat the salmon steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme using a fork. Set this herb butter aside near the stove.
- Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it coats the pan and moves easily. Place the salmon steaks in a single layer and sear for about 3 minutes, until a golden crust forms on the bottom.
- Step 4: Carefully flip the salmon steaks using a fish spatula and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
- Step 5: Quickly add dollops of the herb butter on top of the salmon, spreading it gently as it softens from the heat. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the steaks.
- Step 6: Immediately transfer the skillet to the oven, placing it about 6 inches from the broiler. Broil the salmon for 1-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C).
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh herbs like dill or chives instead of parsley and thyme for a different flavor profile.
- If you don’t have a broiler, you can finish cooking the salmon in a preheated 450°F (230°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
- Make sure the salmon steaks are dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear.
- Serve with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage
Store any leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid overcooking. It’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon steaks for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking to ensure even searing and proper seasoning.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C) and flakes easily with a fork. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check doneness.
PrintGarlic Herb Butter Salmon Steaks with Parmesan Recipe
This delicious salmon steak recipe features perfectly seared and broiled salmon topped with a flavorful herb butter and parmesan cheese, creating a golden crust and tender juicy interior. It’s a quick and elegant dish ideal for seafood lovers looking for a simple yet impressive meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 8-oz Salmon steaks (1 inch thick)
- 2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Herb Butter Topping
- 3 tbsp Unsalted butter (softened at room temperature)
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Fresh thyme (chopped)
- 2 tbsp Grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat the oven to broil on high. Pat the salmon steaks dry thoroughly using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Prepare Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mash together the softened unsalted butter, fresh chopped parsley, and fresh chopped thyme using a fork. Set this herb butter mixture aside near the stove for easy access.
- Heat Skillet and Sear Salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it moves easily around the pan. Add the salmon steaks in a single layer and sear for about 3 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form on the bottom side.
- Flip and Sear Other Side: Carefully flip the salmon steaks with a fish spatula. Sear the second side for 2 minutes to develop a crust while maintaining juiciness inside.
- Add Herb Butter and Parmesan: Quickly dollop the prepared herb butter over each salmon steak and spread it as it softens from the residual heat. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top to add a savory cheesy layer.
- Broil to Finish: Immediately transfer the skillet with the salmon steaks to the oven, positioning it about 6 inches from the broiler. Broil for 1 to 3 minutes until the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C), ensuring the fish is cooked to medium doneness with a moist texture.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the salmon steaks hot with optional lemon wedges for a fresh citrusy touch.
Notes
- Make sure the salmon steaks are about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best searing results and oven-to-stovetop compatibility.
- Keep an eye on the broiling time to avoid overcooking the fish, as it cooks quickly under the broiler.
- Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after broiling before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Fresh herbs in the butter add brightness and fragrance, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch (reduce quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated).
- Serving with lemon wedges adds a pleasant acidity that complements the richness of the salmon and butter.
Keywords: salmon steak, seared salmon, broiled salmon, herb butter salmon, parmesan crusted salmon, easy seafood dinner

