Baked Boursin Salmon recipe

Baked Boursin Salmon is a simple, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together tender salmon fillets topped with rich Boursin cheese and a hint of garlic and herbs. The cheese…

By Riley • December 10, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Baked Boursin Salmon is a simple, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together tender salmon fillets topped with rich Boursin cheese and a hint of garlic and herbs. The cheese melts perfectly over the fish as it bakes, creating a luscious layer that adds an extra touch of indulgence without any fuss. This recipe is super easy and makes for a tasty weeknight dinner or a more special meal when you want something a bit different.

I love how quick this dish comes together, and the creamy Boursin really keeps the salmon moist and full of flavor. It’s one of those meals where I feel like I’m treating myself without needing a lot of fancy ingredients or prep time. My secret is to sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley or dill on top right before serving—it brightens up the whole plate and gives it a fresh pop of color.

My favorite way to enjoy Baked Boursin Salmon is paired with roasted veggies or a simple mixed green salad. It’s also great alongside some warm crusty bread to scoop up any extra cheesy sauce. This dish always feels like a little celebration in my kitchen, and it’s so easy to make anytime you want a comforting meal that feels a bit special. I find myself making this one again and again because it’s just that good!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best for a tender, juicy result. If fresh isn’t available, frozen salmon that’s fully thawed is a good option. You can also use other fatty fish like trout or arctic char if you prefer.

Boursin Cheese: This is the star of the dish with its creamy texture and herb-garlic flavor. If you can’t find Boursin, try cream cheese mixed with minced garlic and dried herbs (parsley, chives, and dill) as a substitute.

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch to the cheese topping. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

Lemon: Lemon juice and slices brighten the flavors and cut through the richness. Fresh lemon is best, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

How Do I Make Sure the Salmon Stays Moist and The Cheese Doesn’t Burn?

Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked, and cheese toppings can burn if exposed to high heat too long. Here’s how to bake this dish perfectly:

• Preheat the oven to a moderate 400°F to cook the salmon evenly without drying it out.
• Pat salmon dry before seasoning – this helps the cheese stick and avoids extra moisture that steams the fish.
• Spread Boursin cheese evenly but not too thickly to allow bubbling without burning.
• Watch your bake time closely—about 12-15 minutes works best depending on fillet thickness.
• If the cheese starts to brown too fast, loosely cover the salmon with foil for the last few minutes.
• Adding lemon slices on top also helps keep the cheese moist and adds fresh flavor.

These small tips keep your salmon tender with a creamy, lightly browned cheese topping every time!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – perfect for holding the salmon while it bakes evenly in the oven.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps the salmon from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Sharp knife – helps you slice lemon thinly and trim any unwanted parts from the salmon.
• Measuring spoons – useful for measuring olive oil and seasoning just right.
• Spatula or fish turner – great for lifting the salmon gently after baking without breaking it.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap Boursin for herbed goat cheese for a tangier, creamy topping that melts just as well.
• Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top for a burst of sweetness and color.
• Try topping with fresh dill or tarragon instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
• Stir a little lemon zest into the Boursin cheese before spreading for extra citrus punch.

Baked Boursin Salmon

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 package (5.2 oz) Boursin garlic and herb cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (½ sliced thin, remainder juiced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Time Needed

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Total time is roughly 25 minutes, so it’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy evenings!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prep the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on the baking sheet. Drizzle each fillet evenly with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Add the Boursin Topping

Spread a generous layer of Boursin garlic and herb cheese over the top of each salmon fillet. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the cheese. Finally, arrange thin lemon slices on top to add flavor and a pretty appearance.

4. Bake and Finish

Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork. The Boursin cheese topping will be bubbly and slightly browned. Once done, remove from the oven and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fillets. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

5. Serve

Serve your delicious Baked Boursin Salmon right away with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky cheese and bright lemon flavors!

Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to remove extra moisture, which helps the cheese topping stick and prevents sogginess.

What Can I Substitute if I Can’t Find Boursin Cheese?

You can use cream cheese mixed with garlic powder and dried herbs like parsley, chives, and dill as a simple alternative. Herbed goat cheese also works well for a tangier flavor.

How Should I Store Leftover Baked Boursin Salmon?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the salmon moist and cheese topping creamy.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the salmon with the Boursin and garlic topping, then cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours before baking. Just bake as directed when ready.