Buttery Lemon Dill Salmon & Orzo Bake: A One-Pan Meal That Tastes Like Fine Dining
If you’re craving something elegant yet comforting, look no further than this Buttery Lemon Dill Salmon and Orzo Bake. This one-pan wonder combines rich salmon fillets with a creamy lemony orzo that soaks up every drop of flavor. It’s light yet satisfying, simple to prepare, and feels like a meal you’d order at your favorite bistro.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between freshness and indulgence.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of citrusy brightness from the lemon, the fragrant freshness of dill, and the richness of salmon and cream makes each bite truly irresistible. And with everything cooked in one oven-safe skillet or dish, cleanup is a breeze which makes this a favorite for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon:
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2 skinless salmon fillets
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
For the Creamy Orzo:
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1 tablespoon butter
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1/2 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup orzo pasta
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2 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Salmon
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, pat the salmon fillets dry and season them with a flavorful mix of olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, lemon juice, lemon zest, and dill.
Let the seasoned fillets rest as you prepare the orzo this allows the flavors to absorb slightly and gives the salmon a fragrant citrus-herb finish.
2. Sauté the Aromatics for the Orzo
In an oven-safe skillet or baking dish, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, releasing its deep aroma.
At this point, your kitchen will start to smell amazing a promising start to what will soon be a restaurant-quality meal.
3. Toast the Orzo and Simmer
Pour the orzo into the skillet, stirring to coat it with the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Toast it for 1–2 minutes, just until it begins to take on a slightly golden hue.
Next, add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step helps the orzo cook evenly while absorbing the savory broth.
4. Create the Creamy Base
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, and a touch of salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens just enough to coat the spoon.
This creamy, lemon-scented mixture forms the flavorful bed that will cradle your salmon to perfection.
5. Add the Salmon and Bake
Gently nestle the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the creamy orzo. Spoon a bit of the sauce over the fillets for an extra burst of flavor.
Cover the skillet with foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the orzo is tender and creamy.
Want a little golden color? Uncover the skillet and broil for an additional 2–3 minutes to lightly crisp the top.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon wedges for a pop of brightness and visual appeal.
Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation, or plate it individually with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips and Customizations
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No salmon? This recipe also works beautifully with cod or halibut.
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Make it vegetarian by omitting the fish and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
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Add greens like baby spinach or peas to the orzo during the last few minutes of simmering for added color and nutrition.
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For extra lemon punch, top the final dish with lemon slices before broiling.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 480 kcal
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Protein: High (from salmon and Parmesan)
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Carbs: Moderate (thanks to the orzo)
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Fat: Rich, but balanced by the lemon and dill for a lighter feel
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2 generous portions
Final Thoughts: A Citrusy, Creamy, One-Pan Masterpiece
This Buttery Lemon Dill Salmon & Orzo Bake is the kind of dish that brings people to the table — and keeps them coming back for seconds. It’s zesty, creamy, herbaceous, and surprisingly simple to prepare. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s destined to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
So next time you’re wondering what to make with that salmon in your fridge, try this. One pan, two fillets, and a burst of lemony love dinner is served.
