Creamy Salmon Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Salmon Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender salmon with rich cream sauce and perfectly cooked penne. It’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal that feels special.

Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 8 oz heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Step 3: Add the salmon to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking the salmon into flakes with a spatula as it cooks through.
- Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and season with sea salt and pepper. Stir gently and then turn off the heat.
- Step 5: Add the cooked pasta, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, and chopped parsley to the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
- Step 6: Serve immediately, sprinkling extra cheese and parsley on top if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use crème fraîche.
- Fresh dill can be used instead of parsley for a different herb note.
- Use skinless salmon fillets for easier flaking and less prep.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper flaking.
What pasta can I use instead of penne?
Any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle works well with this creamy salmon sauce.
PrintCreamy Salmon Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Salmon Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish combining tender salmon flakes with al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich, buttery cream sauce with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick yet elegant meal, it balances flavors and textures beautifully for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Salmon and Pasta
- 1 lb salmon
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
Sauce and Flavorings
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 8 oz heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Cook pasta and fry onions: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add salmon: Add the salmon to the sautéed onions in the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking the salmon into flakes with a spatula as it cooks through evenly.
- Add cream: Pour in the heavy cream, then season with sea salt and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly, then turn off the heat to let the sauce thicken slightly.
- Finish the dish: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the creamy salmon sauce. Stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and chopped parsley, mixing all components well to coat the pasta evenly with sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy salmon pasta and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for garnish before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice bright contrast to the rich cream sauce.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to hold up well in the sauce.
Keywords: Creamy salmon pasta, salmon pasta recipe, creamy pasta with salmon, easy salmon dinner, penne pasta with salmon, Parmesan cream sauce pasta

