Dinner

Garlic Herb Butter Salmon Steaks with Parmesan Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan December 30, 2025December 30, 2025

Introduction

Salmon steaks make for a delicious and elegant meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With a crispy sear and a rich herb butter topping, this recipe highlights the natural flavor of the salmon while adding a savory finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion alike.

A cooked salmon steak sits on a white plate with a white marbled texture beneath, showing a golden brown, slightly crispy top layer sprinkled with chopped green herbs and small bits of garlic. The thick pink flesh inside is soft and flaky, partially pulled apart with a silver fork resting beside it. Two bright yellow lemon wedges are placed on the plate, one near the top and one near the bottom left, adding color contrast. Small green herb sprigs decorate the background near the top edge of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 salmon steaks, 8 oz each (1 inch thick)
2 tsp sea salt

1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to Broil on High. Pat the salmon steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme using a fork. Set this herb butter aside near the stove.

Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it coats the pan and slides easily. Add the salmon steaks in a single layer and sear for about 3 minutes, or until a golden crust forms on the bottom side.
Step 4: Use a fish spatula to carefully flip the salmon steaks. Sear for an additional 2 minutes on the other side.
Step 5: Quickly add spoonfuls of the herb butter over the salmon, spreading it gently as it softens from the heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Step 6: Transfer the skillet immediately to the oven, placing it about 6 inches from the broiler. Broil the salmon for 1 to 3 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C). Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired.

Tips & Variations

For an extra crispy skin, make sure to pat the salmon dry thoroughly before seasoning.
If you don’t have fresh herbs, substitute with 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley and thyme.

Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning for a smoky flavor twist.
Use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent sticking while searing.

Storage

Store cooked salmon steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in an oven preheated to 275°F (135°C) until heated through, being careful not to overcook.

How to Serve

The image shows four salmon steaks cooked with a browned and slightly crispy surface, covered with green herbs and spices. The orange-pink fish pieces are arranged closely inside a black cast-iron skillet. On top of the salmon, there are three bright yellow lemon wedges and small fresh green parsley leaves scattered around, adding a fresh look. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface with some green herb sprigs placed nearby and part of a white plate with additional lemon wedges visible in the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon steaks for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed salmon steaks to ensure even cooking and a good sear. If using frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry before cooking.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C) and flakes easily with a fork. The meat should still be moist and slightly translucent in the center.