Pappardelle with Smoked Salmon is a luxurious and flavorful pasta dish that combines the silky texture of wide pappardelle noodles with the smoky richness of salmon. This dish is light yet indulgent, with the creamy sauce perfectly complementing the tender pasta and delicate flavor of the smoked salmon. It’s an elegant meal that’s ideal for a dinner party or a special night in.
The pappardelle is the perfect pasta choice for this dish, its wide, flat shape provides an ideal base for the creamy sauce, allowing the rich flavors to cling to every bite. The pasta is cooked al dente and tossed in a creamy sauce made with butter, cream, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness. The creaminess of the sauce complements the smoky salmon beautifully, while the lemon adds a refreshing contrast.
The smoked salmon is gently flaked into bite-sized pieces and folded into the pasta. The smokiness of the salmon infuses the sauce, adding depth and richness without being overpowering. The combination of the delicate, savory salmon and the creamy sauce creates a luxurious mouthfeel that’s both comforting and indulgent.
For added flavor, fresh dill or chives can be sprinkled over the top, giving the dish a fresh, herbal note that brightens the richness of the sauce. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a zest of lemon can also be added to enhance the flavors and give the dish a little extra zing.
Pappardelle with Smoked Salmon is best served immediately, allowing the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce while still retaining its perfect texture. It’s an ideal dish for a sophisticated dinner, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a special meal with loved ones.
In summary, Pappardelle with Smoked Salmon is a creamy, rich, and indulgent pasta dish that combines the silky texture of pappardelle with the smoky, delicate flavor of salmon. The creamy sauce and fresh herbs enhance the dish’s elegance, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful, memorable meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pappardelle pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 shallot finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1/4 cup dill chopped fresh
- 4 ounces smoked salmon cut into thin strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped dill until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pappardelle pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the dill cream sauce.
- Gently fold in the smoked salmon strips. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serve the pappardelle with smoked salmon and dill cream sauce immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
This looks fancy but I think is just overcooked pasta with fish n sauce?? IDK.
I had high hopes, but the salmon was too strong for me. Maybe I added too much? Still, it looks pretty.
Looks good, but i dont like salmon that much. maybe ill try just with butter and cream.🤔
I totally get what you mean! Smoked salmon can be strong if you’re not used to it. Maybe next time try less or more cream to balance it out!
Ewww, the dill ruins it. Smoked salmon is good but not in this sauce. Way overrated!
I totally disagree! The dill adds such a fresh flavor. You probably just don’t like dill. This recipe is awesome!
But smoked salmon and dill is like classic combination! Maybe try it without the cream sauce next time?
Made this for dinner tonight and wow—creamy but not heavy. The dill is the perfect touch with the smoked salmon. I used a little extra parmesan and it turned out amazing.
Not sure if my dill was too strong or I overdid the garlic—mine tasted kinda harsh. Also I forgot to add pepper until the end and it needed more seasoning.
That harsh taste sounds like either the garlic really did overpower it or the dill was on the heavy side. Next time I’d try 1 clove (or even 1/2) and add the dill a touch at the end instead of all at once.
Super tasty! My family loved it. I will definitely make this again. Thanks for sharing!
Ehh… not for me. I think I prefer classic alfredo. Didn’t like the smokey taste.
Pasta? what’s that? I really don’t eat. Just here for my friend who invited me.
Dill is kinda weird for pasta, imo. Like smoked salmon already has flavor—why bury it in cream? Ended up tossing half. Maybe I did somethin wrong.
This was a train wreck for me. The sauce curdled and I think I did everything right!
Mine tasted bland. I think my dill was old? Also I might’ve overcooked the cream because it split slightly. Not terrible, just needed more seasoning.
Yum! Just what I needed for dinner. No leftovers though, my kids ate it all!
I don’t get it, how can kids like salmon? Haha, mine just eat plain pasta. Not gonna try it.
That sounds amazing! My kids love smoked salmon too. I think I’ll try this recipe next week!
Good flavor combo, but my sauce got a bit too thick after adding the parmesan. I had to splash in extra cream/water to loosen it. Still tasted great though.
Really tasty, but I felt the sauce needed a tiny splash of pasta water to loosen it. Also, 4 oz smoked salmon felt a bit low for me.
4 oz smoked salmon low?? 😅 I’d go more like 6-8 oz for sure. Still decent though—dill cream sounds legit. I think I’d add extra parmesan too.
Glad you liked it! Pasta water really is a cheat code—starchy splash helps emulsify the cream. Next time I’d also do it if the sauce feels too thick.
Awesome!!! 🤤 So delicious and easy to make!I didn’t have enough dill tho.
Thanks for sharing! Maybe try some parsley next time if you’re out of dill. 😄
Not a fan. The dill was too strong for my taste. I prefer simpler sauces.
I don’t usually cook with cream sauces, so I was nervous. Surprisingly easy—didn’t even split for me. The smoked salmon tasted fancy lol.
Yum! So easy to make. My kitchen smell so good right now. Kids ate it all!
That sounds amazing! I love when kids enjoy the food we make. Will definitely try this recipe soon!
I dunno… Seems a bit too fancy for my taste. Pasta and salmon? Not sure about that combo. 😕
Uhhh I think I did something wrong lol. My pasta was fine but the sauce didnt taste “smokey” at all, just creamy. Maybe I needed more smoked salmon? Or different brand?
I tried this recipe, but I don’t think I did it right. The salmon was too fishy. 🤢
Yum, I made this twice already! The flavors are just fantastic together! Thumbs up!
My shallot was still crunchy after 2-3 minutes, so I cooked it longer. After that the base tasted sweeter and smoother. Great recipe overall!
Made this for dinner tonight and it was *so* good. The dill cream sauce tastes fancy but is actually easy. I added a little lemon zest at the end and it really brightened everything.
Love this—lemon zest is such a good idea with dill and salmon. I’ve always thought the dill cream sauce sounds “fancy” too, but it really is straightforward. Gonna try it next time!
Made this tonight and wow—so creamy and the dill is perfect with the smoked salmon. I added a little lemon zest at the end and it really brightened it up. Super restaurant-y for being easy.
Nice! I love that lemon zest move—cream sauces can be a little heavy otherwise. Glad it came out super creamy for you.
I’m skeptical that 4 oz smoked salmon is enough for 8 oz pasta, but I tried it and it was actually balanced. Next time I’ll add a splash more cream for more sauce.
Pretty solid recipe. The smoked salmon warms through nicely without getting rubbery. I used half-and-half because that’s what I had, and it still worked, just not as thick.
Too much cream! I love pappardelle, but this recipe is swimming in sauce. I’ll try less next time.
This was delicious! The dill really makes it shine. Will make again!
I’m glad you loved it! The dill and salmon combo is just perfect. I can’t wait to try this myself!
Best pasta!!
Totally agree! This recipe is a game changer. The dill sauce is divine!
Not bad, but it felt kinda heavy. Also I accidentally forgot the salt until the end, so I had to season more. Smoked salmon is pricey where I live, so maybe I’ll stretch it next time with extra pasta.
Easy and fancy enough for guests! My family liked it more than regular pasta with cream. I added extra dill because I love dill, and it didn’t ruin anything.
This is restaurant-level good. The dill cream sauce is so silky, and the smoked salmon really pops. I added extra pepper and it made it even better.
Absolutely delicious! The dill really adds a fresh flavor. Will definitely make again! 😍
5 stars! It’s like a gourmet meal right at home!
This is one of those meals that makes you feel like you own a restaurant. The parmesan + dill combo is money. 10/10 comfort pasta.
Eh, it was okay. Smoke salmon tastes weird. I thought it would be better. 🤷♂️
This was insanely creamy and the dill actually tastes fresh, not weird. I added a squeeze of lemon at the end and it made the smoked salmon pop even more. Would make again for sure.
Too much cream, not enough flavor. I could barely taste the dill. Disappointing!
good pasta
This was amazing! The dill cream sauce is so rich and tasty! Definitely a keeper!
This was quick and comforting. The sauce came together smoothly and the parmesan/dill combo is a winner. I used bottled dill once (oops) and it wasn’t the same, so fresh dill matters.
Recipe seems too rich for my taste. Used half the cream but still felt heavy.
I get that! Creamy dishes can be heavy, maybe try a lighter sauce next time?
The sauce is rich rich rich. I had to use a bit more parmesan because mine looked too thin after the 5 minute simmer (maybe my cream was bigger? idk). Tasted good though and the family liked it.
Mine didn’t taste like what I expected. Could be I had the wrong type of salmon???
Absolutely loved this—creamy without being too heavy, and the dill really brightens up the smoked salmon. I added a tiny squeeze of lemon at the end and it tasted restaurant-level.
This recipe was super easy and quick! The combination of dill and smoked salmon is just divine. Will definitely make it again!
I tried this recipe too and it turned out great! I love how simple it is.
Really? Smoked salmon? I don’t get why people like fish in pasta. Sounds weird to me.
This was amazing! So creamy and delicious. I can’t believe how easy it was to make.
Made this tonight and it was super cozy. The dill cream sauce tasted restaurant-level, and the smoked salmon folded in perfectly without getting rubbery. I added a little extra black pepper and it really popped.
Love this! The dill cream sauce sounds so dreamy—restaurant-level is exactly what I’m chasing 😂 Also good tip on extra black pepper.
Omg yasss! This is now my favorite dish! So creamy!
So easy to make! My kids loved it, especially the salmon 😋
Not a fan of dill but tried this anyway. It was okay, but I had to add a lot of spice to make it more enjoyable.
Dill is the best! But I guess not everyone has to like it. Glad you gave it a shot tho!
I understand the struggle! Dill can be overpowering. Adding spices is a good move! Maybe try capers next time?
It was ok, a bit too creamy for my taste. I might try it again with less cream.
Tastes great but you might want to find fresh salmon, not that canned stuff.
My family loved this dish! It was easy to make and savory. Will make again for sure! 😊
Sounds fancy but was super easy to make! My guests were impressed!
Really good comfort food. The sauce came together fast, and the parmesan/dill combo is excellent. Only thing: I salted very lightly because the smoked salmon is already salty.
Totally agree—this is such comforting food. I also started with light salt since smoked salmon can be plenty salty. The dill + parmesan really makes the sauce pop!
Way too much cream for my taste. Might try half next time.
Mine turned out a bit thick, like pasty—maybe I didn’t stir enough or my parmesan clumped. Next time I’ll loosen it with a splash of pasta water. Still tasty though!
Could use clearer timing—like when the cream should simmer vs just steam. I simmered hard and it reduced too much, but adjusting the heat next time will fix it.
Totally agree—“simmer vs steam” is a big difference with cream. I try to keep it at a gentle simmer (little bubbles, not rolling) for that 5 minutes so it stays silky and doesn’t get too thick.
Good point, but I think your timing might be off more than the heat. Like, the recipe says bring to a simmer and cook 5 minutes—if your pan runs hot, yeah it’ll reduce fast. Next time maybe start checking around 3-4 min and stop when it coats the back of a spoon.
This is such a fancy recipe for just pasta! But I loved it. 🙌
I was skeptical about the dill, but it actually worked well! The flavor was unique, and I enjoyed it a lot. Might add more cheese next time.
This dish is absolutely delish! I added some capers for an extra zing. 👌
Tbh, I was skeptical about the cream with salmon but it was delish! Will make again.
1/2 cup parm and heavy cream together? Kinda rich… not sure it’s worth the calories. I liked the idea more than the final taste.
I wasn’t sure about the dill… but it works! My family loved it. Will make again.
I was skeptical about the dill, but it turned out better than I expected. A unique flavor!
Made this tonight—so creamy and the dill is super fresh. I used a little extra parmesan and it turned out restaurant-level. Will definitely make again!
Sounds good but I’m worried my sauce would get too thick if I add more cheese. Do you keep it on a low simmer after Parmesan goes in? Never wanna curdle 😅
Yes!! I love when dill really comes through like that. That extra parmesan tip is spot on—adds so much depth to the sauce.
This was amazing! The dill really brought out the flavors! 😊
Smoked salmon + cream + parmesan is always a safe bet. Super quick weeknight meal and the garlic/shallot base smells amazing.
I tried something kinda like this before, but my sauce broke when I added the parmesan. Any tips to keep it smooth? Also is 4 oz smoked salmon enough for 8 oz pasta, or should I double it?
Yes!! This sounds super rich and cozy—garlic/shallot + dill with smoked salmon is such a good combo. I’m totally making this for dinner this week.
This tasted super restaurant-y. The dill cream sauce is legit—soft, creamy, and the salmon just melts in. I added a squeeze of lemon at the end and it popped.
Pretty good, but mine was a bit too salty. I think my smoked salmon was saltier than expected, so next time I’ll go lighter on the added salt. Still delicious though.
Wow! My family went back for seconds. The texture of pappardelle with the salmon is perfect. Easy weeknight dinner if you don’t overthink it.
Pasta always gets me hungry! Anyone tried this with a different pasta? Like spaghetti?
Pretty bland for me until I added more salt. The recipe says “salt and pepper to taste,” which I did, but maybe parmesan brands differ.
A bit too salty for me. I wouldn’t add extra salt if you make it.
I think the saltiness really depends on the type of smoked salmon you use. Some are way saltier than others. Just a thought!
I skipped the dill bc I’m not a fan, and it turned out fine.
Perfect dish for dinner! My kids loved it and even asked for seconds. Thanks for sharing!
Honestly, I messed up and added the salmon at the same time as the cream. It turned kind of smoky and not as delicate, but my partner still ate it, so…?
Eh, not great. I put too much salt by accident. Be careful!
Pretty good, but I think my sauce got a bit too thick after adding parmesan. Next time I’ll simmer a minute less or add a splash more cream/ pasta water. Still flavorful though!
The sauce was too rich for me. I think if you lighten it up, it could work better.
I actually loved the richness! Maybe you just need to get used to it. Different tastes, I guess.
Okay, but how is heavy cream even necessary? Can’t we just use milk?? I would like to know.
Yuck! I used canned salmon. Never again! Fresh is key.
I don’t like dill. Thot about leaving it out but then it wouldn’t be the same recipe, right?
Made this for dinner tonight and it was restaurant-level. The dill cream sauce clings to the pasta perfectly, and the smoked salmon didn’t get lost at all. I added a tiny squeeze of lemon and it really brightened everything.
Not sure what the big deal is. The sauce was way too rich for my taste. 😕
Yummy! I added some capers for a little kick! 😋💚
This dish was fantastic! The flavors were perfect. I used a bit more dill than called for and it turned out great.
This tastes fancy but it’s easy as pie! I added capers and it took it to the next level!
What’s dill? Can I use parsley instead? 🤔
Dill is a herb that’s got a kinda unique flavor. Parsley is way different, but you can try it if you want. Just won’t taste the same! 😅
Not gonna lie, pappardelle is expensive where I live and I substituted fettuccine. Also mine separated a bit, I guess I didn’t simmer gently. Could be my fault, but I’d rather try again.
Absolutely delicious! The flavors are incredible together.
Not my style. I prefer a tomato sauce. But if you like cream, then go for it.
My husband loved it! I don’t usually cook but this was easy and quick. Will make again for sure!
I forgot to buy dill, so I used basil instead. Still tasted good, but not the same, lol.
Couldnt find pappardelle so just used spaghetti… it still turned out good!
Too much cream for me. Kinda felt sick after. Next time I’ll use less. 😖
Made it exactly as written and it came out rich but balanced. Parm + dill is a great combo. Next time I’ll use a bit more smoked salmon because 4 oz feels a little stingy.
Love this—rich but not heavy is exactly what I want from a cream sauce. Parm + dill really does something magical. I usually go a little more salmon too; 4 oz can feel stingy.
I tried it but my sauce got kinda thick fast? Maybe I boiled the cream too hard. Still tasty though. Next time I’ll lower the heat and add the parmesan slower.
Pretty good, but I think 1 cup cream is a bit much for my taste. Next time I’ll use slightly less or add more Parmesan. Still, the sauce texture was smooth and not grainy.
This is my kinda comfort food! Easy and filling!
Sounds fancy, but I don’t trust salmon in a sauce! What if it ruins the pasta?
Absolutely! Nothing beats a creamy pasta dish for comfort. Can’t wait to try this!
Not for me. It looked pretty but I didn’t like the texture of the salmon. Disappointed.
I totally get it! Salmon can be hit or miss. Maybe try a different fish next time? 🙈
I followed the steps but mine got a little too thick after simmering. Next time I’ll save a splash of pasta water like I do with other sauces. Still tasty though!
Not a fan of dill with salmon. The sauce was kinda overpowering to me, like toothpaste vibes (sorry). Would make again without dill or with way less.
Simple, yet flavorful! Who knew pasta with cream could be so fun to make? Highly recommend! 🍝
Um, isn’t smoked salmon supposed to be cooked? I don’t know, just seems fishy to me. No thanks.
I followed it pretty closely, but I think I chopped my dill too small? It kind of disappeared. Also it needed more salt than I expected. Otherwise, decent.
I’m skeptical about adding smoked salmon and cooking it “2-3 minutes” because salmon can get kinda weird if it’s overdone, but mine stayed tender. I did keep it gentle though.
I followed it exactly, but my sauce turned out a bit grainy—maybe I cooked the cream too long? Still edible though, and the flavor was great.
idk… i cooked it, but my sauce got thick like alfredo and the salmon kinda disappeared (maybe i cut too small). Still ate it tho 😅
Easy recipe, but the salmon was too fishy! Not a fan. 🙁
Too fishy? I love salmon! It’s pretty tasty, but I guess not everyone likes it. 😅
Sorry to hear that! Maybe try a different type of fish next time? A milder one might work better.
Not the best. The cream sauce was way too heavy for my taste. I guess I just prefer lighter sauces. Sorry!
Smoked salmon in pasta sounds fancy but also kinda risky. I tried it and honestly it was better than I expected. The garlic/shallot base helps a lot.
Made this tonight and wow—creamy without being too heavy. The dill flavor really comes through and the smoked salmon is such a nice touch. Followed the steps exactly and it came together fast.
I tried it but mine was kinda thick? I think I cooked the cream too long 😅 Also I used dried dill (didn’t have fresh) and the flavor was more muted. Still tasty though!
Yes!! I had the same experience—creamy but not heavy at all. The dill totally stands out (in a good way) and the smoked salmon makes it feel fancy without extra work. Glad it came together fast for you too!
I followed this recipe exactly, but couldn’t get my sauce to thicken. Thought it was supposed to be creamy, not runny.
Too much garlic for my taste. Next time I’ll cut back a bit. But overall, I liked it.
Followed it exactly and it came out perfect on the first try. My family asked for seconds—especially the sauce.
This was soooo good! I never knew smoked salmon could taste like this. Will definitely make again!
I totally agree! This recipe is a game changer for sure. I never liked salmon much, but this sauce makes it so creamy and tasty! 😍
Really? I don’t know if I’d like smoked salmon with pasta. Sounds a bit weird to me, but if you loved it, maybe I’ll try it. 🤔
I found it way too creamy for my taste, might try using less cream next time. 🤔
I don’t like salmon. Is there an alternative? Maybe chicken? Haha!
Not gonna lie, I was skeptical about cooking the salmon in the cream sauce—thought it would get fishy. But it heated through nicely and stayed delicate. Good call on the short cooking time.