This Baked Boursin Salmon is the ultimate weeknight hero: meltingly tender salmon fillets tucked beneath a blanket of creamy, garlicky Boursin cheese with a sparkling hit of lemon and fresh herbs. The first bite delivers pure comfort and restaurant-worthy flavor, all from an easy prep and a handful of bold ingredients. Whether you’re new to salmon or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you’re craving something special but totally doable.

Baked Boursin Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Boursin Salmon is that you only need a few key ingredients, but each one truly matters. Every component plays its part, from the richness of the salmon to the zesty brightness of the lemon and the signature creaminess of Boursin. Here’s how each ingredient works its magic:

Salmon fillets: Rich, flaky, and packed with omega-3s, salmon is the hearty, flavorful foundation of the dish.
Boursin cheese (garlic & fine herbs): This creamy, tangy spread melts into a rich topping, infusing every bite with herbal, savory goodness.
Olive oil or melted butter: Adds extra moisture and helps the salmon bake up incredibly tender.
Garlic (minced): Enhances the Boursin’s savoriness and infuses the whole dish with a gentle aromatic bite.
Lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness, adding a fresh pop.
Lemon zest: Provides an aromatic, slightly floral citrus kick that takes the whole dish up a notch.
Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors—feel free to adjust to your preference.
Black pepper: Just a little pepper delivers a subtle, warming heat that balances the creamy cheese.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a colorful, herby finish that freshens up the final plate.
Lemon wedges: Serve on the side for anyone who loves an extra squeeze of lemon at the table.

How to Make Baked Boursin Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, grab your favorite baking dish and either give it a quick brush with oil or line it with parchment paper. This ensures the salmon won’t stick and makes cleanup later a total breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the Boursin cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and half of your olive oil or melted butter. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy—lots of herbal notes with those hints of garlic and lemon. This fragrant mixture is the star of your Baked Boursin Salmon.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Pat your salmon fillets dry (this helps them roast up beautifully), then drizzle them with the remaining olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top. Arrange the fillets in your prepared dish, skin side down if you chose skin-on—this keeps the tender fish from falling apart.

Step 4: Top with Boursin Mixture

Next, play “chef” for a second: spoon the cheesy mixture onto each fillet and use the back of your spoon to gently spread it over the top. Don’t worry about perfection here—once it bakes, the topping will melt and hug the salmon just where it needs to.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Pop your dish into the hot oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Timing depends on the thickness of your fillets, but you’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). While it bakes, the Boursin transforms into a golden, bubbling crown of flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

After baking, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes—just enough for the juices to settle. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fragrance, and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing. That’s it—Baked Boursin Salmon, ready to devour!

How to Serve Baked Boursin Salmon

Garnishes

A final sprinkling of parsley isn’t just pretty—it adds a fresh, herbal lift that cuts through the rich cheese. For extra flair, try a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper or add thinly sliced chives. A bright finish of lemon zest never hurts, either.

Side Dishes

Baked Boursin Salmon shines with simple sides! Try fluffy rice pilaf, roasted asparagus, or garlic green beans. Creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad also round out the flavors with ease. Choose sides that complement the salmon’s richness and soak up that glorious cheesy topping.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, serve the salmon atop a platter of wilted spinach or nestle it over lemony couscous. For a dinner party twist, slice the fillets and serve them over tiny toast points or crostini as an elegant starter. However you plate it, Baked Boursin Salmon always feels special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Boursin Salmon keeps well for up to 2 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it cool to room temperature before storing, to preserve freshness and texture. The cheesy topping may set a bit but will remain delicious!

Freezing

While you can freeze cooked salmon, the creamy Boursin sauce tends to lose its smoothness after thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap each portion tightly in plastic and foil, and try to use within a month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the salmon (with its Boursin topping) in a covered oven-proof dish and warm gently at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the salmon or split the sauce. A little squeeze of fresh lemon can revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese instead of Boursin?

It’s tough to replicate the exact flavor, but herbed cream cheese or goat cheese will give you a similar creamy texture. Add garlic and your favorite chopped herbs to mimic the signature taste of Baked Boursin Salmon.

What kind of salmon works best: wild-caught or farmed?

Both types are great here! Wild-caught salmon is often leaner with a richer taste, while farmed salmon tends to be more tender and forgiving. Choose whatever is freshest and most available to you for your Baked Boursin Salmon.

Can I make Baked Boursin Salmon ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese mixture and season the fillets a few hours ahead, then refrigerate everything separately. When ready to bake, assemble and cook as directed for best texture and flavor.

Is it okay to bake salmon without the skin?

Absolutely! Skinless fillets are simple to use and make serving a breeze. Just be a bit gentle when transferring, as they’re more delicate once cooked.

How do I know when my salmon is perfectly cooked?

The secret to perfectly cooked Baked Boursin Salmon is to check for flakiness: when the fish easily flakes with a fork and looks opaque all the way through, it’s ready. Use a meat thermometer for extra confidence—145°F (63°C) is perfect!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fuss-free, flavor-packed meal that feels gourmet but is blissfully easy, Baked Boursin Salmon is it. Give it a try and wow yourself (and anyone lucky enough to join you at the table). Each bite is creamy, fragrant, and utterly satisfying—don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to salmon recipe!