Lemon Basil Salmon Pasta Bake

Name: Lemon Basil Salmon Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz. pasta (penne or fusilli); 12 oz. salmon fillet, skin removed; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional: additional lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Earthly Eats | Global Ingredients

I absolutely love making this Lemon Basil Salmon Pasta Bake for a cozy family dinner. It combines my favorite ingredients: fresh basil, zesty lemon, and tender salmon, all baked together with pasta to create a comforting dish. Every bite sings with flavor, and the creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully. I love how easy it is to put together, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy fats and protein into our meals while pleasing everyone’s palate.

Created by

The Spoonandpan Team

Last updated on 2026-02-19T18:38:21.900Z

When I first tried making a pasta bake with salmon, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. The combination of fresh lemon juice and fragrant basil really brightens up the dish, making even the pickiest eaters come back for seconds. I experimented with different types of cheeses, but found that a blend of creamy mascarpone and sharp parmesan gave the best result.

One tip I found essential is to cook the pasta just under al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking, absorbing all the flavors from the sauce. This pasta bake has become a go-to in my house for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, as it’s simple yet satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bright citrus notes perfectly complement the rich salmon.
Comforting creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.
A vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes, perfect for entertaining.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh basil in this Lemon Basil Salmon Pasta Bake elevates the dish tremendously. The aromatic oils released from the fresh leaves infuse the creamy sauce with a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can't replicate. When chopping basil, I recommend a chiffonade technique, which preserves the integrity of the leaves and releases maximum flavor. Just stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and slice thinly for the best results.

Equally important is the quality of the salmon. Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it typically has a richer flavor and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. When preparing the salmon, make sure not to overcook it; ideally, it should flake easily but remain moist. Aim for a slightly translucent center when you remove it from the heat, as it will continue to cook while it bakes with the pasta.

Safer Baking and Serving Tips

To ensure even baking, spread the pasta mixture evenly in the baking dish and press it down gently to avoid empty spaces. This helps the sauce bubble up and coat every piece of pasta during cooking. A glass baking dish is great for this recipe as it allows you to visually monitor browning. Aim for the top to turn golden brown, which usually takes about 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

After baking, let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken up a bit, making it easier to serve. If you garnish with more fresh basil, do it just before serving for the best flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top can also add a lovely burst of brightness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

8 oz. pasta (penne or fusilli)
12 oz. salmon fillet, skin removed
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: additional lemon wedges for serving

Make sure everything is prepared before moving to the next steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your pasta bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just under al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Salmon

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper, then cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove from heat and flake into large pieces.

Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, mascarpone, parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and chopped basil. Mix until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, flaked salmon, and sauce. Gently mix to combine all ingredients well.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve

Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil and lemon wedges if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or capers to the pasta mix. This will enhance the Mediterranean vibe of the dish! You can also substitute the salmon with chicken or shrimp if preferred.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Basil Salmon Pasta Bake is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just be aware that it might need a few extra minutes in the oven if it goes in cold. To prevent refrigeration woes, try to store leftover salmon separately if possible, as it may change texture when reheated with the pasta.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can; it can make the pasta gummy and overcook the salmon, ruining its delicate texture.

Variations to Explore

If you're looking to add variety to this dish, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can sauté them briefly before mixing them into the pasta, adding both color and nutrition. For a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick that complements the lemon and salmon beautifully.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and mascarpone with coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. This adjustment can introduce a subtle tropical flavor, but ensure the balance of lemon is maintained to cut through the richness. Almond milk can be an option, but it might require a starch addition to replicate the creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli works beautifully, but feel free to use your favorite kind!

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything and refrigerate it. Bake right before serving.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream and cheese are gluten-free as well.