If you’ve ever wished for a dinner that combines effortless elegance with bold, fresh flavors, this Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Picture tender, flaky salmon topped with creamy, herbaceous Boursin cheese that melts and bubbles to golden perfection in the oven. It’s quick, requires minimal fuss, and feels like a special treat without the stress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this dish offers a fantastic balance of richness, citrus brightness, and comforting simplicity that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is deliberately chosen to complement and elevate the salmon, bringing out its natural flavor while adding richness, brightness, and a touch of aromatic herbs.
- Salmon fillets (4, 5-6 oz each): Fresh, high-quality salmon ensures moist, flaky results and acts as the perfect canvas for our Boursin topping.
- Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese (5.2 oz): This creamy, flavorful cheese adds richness and herbaceous depth, melting beautifully over the salmon.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): A drizzle helps gently roast the salmon and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): While the Boursin has garlic, adding minced garlic boosts aromatic intensity and savory complexity.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and cuts through the cheese’s richness.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp): Lemon zest dusted atop the cheese gives a fragrant citrus pop.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds just the right hint of warmth and spice.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, optional): Garnishes the finished dish with a fresh pop of color and mild herbiness.
- Lemon wedges (optional): Perfect for extra tang when serving.
How to Make Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. Setting the temperature just right ensures the salmon cooks evenly while letting the Boursin cheese melt beautifully on top.
Step 2: Prepare Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets thoroughly dry using paper towels. This step is key because it helps the fish roast to a pleasing texture instead of steaming in the oven. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then generously spread softened Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese over the top of each fillet. Don’t be shy here—this cheese is the star player. Finish by zesting fresh lemon directly over the cheese to infuse a fragrant, citrusy note that perfectly contrasts the richness.
Step 3: Arrange & Bake
Carefully place your prepared salmon fillets onto one side of the parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle the salmon with olive oil to enhance roasting and add a silky finish. Bake for 12 to 18 minutes in your preheated oven. You’ll know it’s perfectly cooked when the salmon flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Meanwhile, the Boursin cheese will have melted into a bubbly, slightly golden topping that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet for a lively, tangy finish. Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat. Let the fillets rest for 2 to 3 minutes to lock in juices before carefully transferring them to plates. Serve promptly with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.
How to Serve Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top brightens the plate visually and complements the herby notes in the Boursin cheese. Lemon wedges invite your guests to add a splash of citrus brightness that cuts through the creamy topping, making every bite perfectly balanced. If you like a little surprise heat, red pepper flakes add a subtle kick without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Side Dishes
Simple sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad pair wonderfully with this salmon. The richness of the Boursin cheese calls for fresh or lightly cooked veggies to keep the meal well-rounded and vibrant. A quinoa pilaf or wild rice also makes an elegant side, soaking up every last bit of that zesty lemon and cheese blend.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve this salmon over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside grilled lemon halves brushed with herb-infused olive oil for a restaurant-worthy touch. Alternatively, present the fillets plated over a colorful medley of sautéed seasonal vegetables for an eye-catching feast that tastes as good as it looks. The Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe is versatile enough to fit weeknight dinners and celebratory meals alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. The salmon will keep well for up to 2 days, making it perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner the next day. Make sure to separate any lemon wedges so they stay fresh.
Freezing
While fresh salmon is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze cooked salmon to extend its shelf life. Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cooked salmon maintains its flavor and texture for up to 1 month. Thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat your Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe, avoid the microwave if you want to keep texture intact and cheese deliciously melty. Instead, warm it gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil. This method helps preserve the flaky tenderness of the fish while warming the creamy topping evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of Boursin?
Absolutely! While Boursin’s unique garlic and herb blend makes this recipe shine, you can try cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs or goat cheese for a different but equally creamy and flavorful topping.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon zest and juice?
Using fresh lemon zest and juice really elevates the dish by adding vibrant, fresh citrus notes that bottled lemon juice can’t quite replicate. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but zest is best fresh.
How do I ensure the salmon doesn’t dry out?
Patting the salmon dry before seasoning and baking helps it roast rather than steam, preserving moisture. Also, paying attention to baking time—removing it as soon as it flakes easily with a fork—will prevent drying out.
Can this recipe be made with salmon frozen prior to cooking?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before baking. Thawing ensures even cooking and helps the Boursin cheese melt properly.
What wine pairs well with Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe?
A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the richness of the Boursin and the brightness of the lemon in this dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe is truly a gem in any cook’s repertoire—a dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours mastering it but comes together in less than half an hour. It’s creamy, fresh, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. I can’t recommend it enough for those evenings when you want something easy, elegant, and delicious all at once. Trust me, once you try it, this salmon will be on repeat in your kitchen!
Print
Simple Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Simple Baked Boursin Salmon recipe offers an easy and elegant dinner option featuring tender salmon fillets topped with creamy, herb-infused Boursin cheese. With a quick prep time and straightforward baking method, it delivers flavorful, flaky fish finished with fresh lemon and parsley for a bright, satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Salmon and Topping
- 4 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each)
- 1 Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese (5.2 oz)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Seasoning & Garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup after baking.
- Prepare Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets very dry with paper towels to promote proper roasting. Season both sides evenly with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Spread the softened Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs cheese generously over the top of each salmon fillet. Then zest 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon directly over the cheese-topped salmon.
- Arrange & Bake: Place the prepared salmon fillets on one side of the parchment-lined baking sheet carefully. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the salmon to enhance flavor and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 18 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork at the thickest part or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The cheese will be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Finish & Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice generously over the cooked salmon to add brightness. Optionally, garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Let the salmon rest on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring to individual plates. Serve immediately alongside lemon wedges.
Notes
- Make sure the salmon fillets are patted very dry to get a nicely roasted texture.
- Boursin cheese should be softened at room temperature for easy spreading.
- If you prefer less salt, adjust seasoning accordingly since Boursin cheese is already flavorful.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure salmon reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Optional parsley garnish adds freshness but can be omitted.
- Leftover salmon is delicious cold or reheated gently.
