Baked Boursin Salmon recipe
Baked Boursin Salmon is a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender, flaky salmon topped with creamy Boursin cheese. The cheese adds a flavorful mix of herbs and garlic that…
Tip: save now, cook later.Baked Boursin Salmon is a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender, flaky salmon topped with creamy Boursin cheese. The cheese adds a flavorful mix of herbs and garlic that makes the salmon feel special without much effort. It’s lovely how the topping melts and browns slightly in the oven, creating a tasty crust that pairs so well with the soft fish underneath.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it feels like a treat but comes together really quickly. The Boursin cheese is my secret weapon here—it adds a rich, cheesy flavor that’s always a hit at the dinner table. Sometimes, I like to add a squeeze of lemon on top before serving to give it a little fresh brightness that balances out the richness perfectly.
My favorite way to serve Baked Boursin Salmon is alongside some roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually perfect for everyday meals. I always find that even if I’m cooking for guests, this recipe gets compliments for tasting so good while being super easy to prepare!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for flaky, flavorful results. If you prefer, frozen salmon works too—just thaw fully before baking. Wild-caught offers a stronger flavor, while farmed is milder and more affordable.
Boursin Cheese: This creamy, herby cheese topping is the star. If you can’t find Boursin, cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and dried herbs (like parsley, chives, and dill) makes a good substitute.
Lemon: Lemon adds brightness and balances richness. Fresh lemon slices also look nice on the plate. If lemons aren’t available, a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest after baking still works well.
Asparagus (optional): Roasting asparagus with the salmon is convenient and tasty. You can swap it for green beans or any other quick-roasting vegetable you like.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Creamy and Browned Boursin Topping?
To get a nice melted and slightly browned cheese layer, spread the Boursin evenly over the salmon. Don’t pile it too thick or it may take longer to cook through.
- Start baking salmon at 400°F (200°C) so it cooks quickly without drying out.
- Check after 12 minutes—salmon should flake easily, and cheese should be bubbling and golden.
- If needed, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes at the end to brown the cheese, but watch closely to avoid burning.
This gentle heat balance gives you a creamy, flavorful topping with a slight crisp on top that pairs beautifully with tender salmon.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for cooking salmon and veggies together with even heat.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Spatula or fish turner – helps you lift salmon gently without breaking it.
- Sharp knife – for trimming asparagus and slicing lemon thinly.
- Measuring spoons – handy for precise olive oil and seasoning amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for cod or halibut for milder fish that also pairs well with Boursin cheese.
- Try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the Boursin for a tangy twist.
- Mix in fresh dill or tarragon to the cheese topping for a bright herbal flavor.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the Boursin for a gentle smoky kick.
Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 (5.2-ounce) package Boursin garlic and herb cheese
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed (optional, for serving)
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy meal for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over each fillet, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
3. Add the Boursin Cheese and Lemon:
Spread an even layer of Boursin garlic and herb cheese over the top of each salmon fillet. Then, place thin lemon slices on or around the salmon for added flavor and a lovely presentation.
4. Prepare and Add Asparagus (Optional):
If using asparagus, toss the trimmed stalks with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them alongside the salmon on the baking sheet.
5. Bake Until Done:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the Boursin topping looks bubbly and slightly browned.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or parsley. Serve immediately with asparagus or your favorite side dish for a delicious meal.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for the best results.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the salmon with Boursin cheese and lemon slices on the baking sheet and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated and bake within 24 hours for the freshest taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the creamy texture of the cheese topping.
Can I Substitute Boursin Cheese?
If Boursin isn’t available, you can use cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and dried herbs like parsley and chives to mimic the flavor and texture. It won’t be quite the same but still delicious!