Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta (One-Pot Recipe)

Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle of multiple dishes?

This one-pot creamy salmon and spinach pasta is the perfect solution.

With tender, flaky salmon, a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, and fresh spinach, this dish is packed with flavor and comes together in 30 minutes.

Cooking everything in one pot not only enhances the flavors but also makes cleanup a breeze.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this creamy salmon pasta is both satisfying and easy to make.

Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive recipe.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Pasta Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• One-Pot Convenience: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
• Rich & Creamy: A velvety garlic Parmesan sauce enhances every bite.
• Nutritious & Satisfying: Packed with protein, omega-3s, and fresh greens.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

• 2 salmon fillets (fresh or frozen, skin removed)
• 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Salmon

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon in the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and flaky.
4. Remove the salmon from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic & Deglaze the Pot

1. In the same pot, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze, capturing all the flavorful bits.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Same Pot

1. Add the pasta, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt to the pot.
2. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens (about 12 minutes).

Step 4: Add Spinach & Parmesan

1. Stir in fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.

Step 5: Return the Salmon

1. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces and gently stir it back into the pasta.
2. Add lemon juice and zest, then adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips for the Best Creamy Salmon Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, Parmesan, and lemon add the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Cook just until flaky to keep it tender.
• Choose the Right Pasta: Long pasta like fettuccine or linguine works best for holding the creamy sauce.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or broth.

Variations & Substitutions

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Dairy-Free: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast and use coconut milk.
• Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free pasta for a wheat-free option.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

What to Serve with Creamy Salmon and Spinach Pasta

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness.
• White Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce consistency.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just thaw it in the fridge overnight or run it under cold water before cooking.

What’s the best pasta for creamy salmon pasta?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well as they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! Trout, cod, or shrimp make great substitutes.