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Garlic Herb Butter Salmon Steaks with Parmesan Recipe

4.9 from 146 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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