Go Back
one-pot-creamy-salmon-pasta_feature

Creamy One Pot Salmon Pasta - Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

This creamy one pot salmon pasta is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you want a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. The rich, creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender salmon flakes, making this a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort in just 30 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 oz salmon fillets, skin removed
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • 1 lemon, juiced

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes and add to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the salmon starts to turn opaque on the outside. You don't need to cook it through at this stage.
  3. Add the pasta to the skillet along with the vegetable broth, heavy cream, dried dill, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. The residual heat will melt the cheese into a creamy sauce. The salmon will flake apart beautifully as you stir.
  6. Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Choose short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni for best results. Don't overcook the salmon initially as it continues cooking with the pasta. Add spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes during last 5 minutes for extra nutrition. Reheats well with a splash of broth or cream to refresh sauce consistency.