Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked salmon recipe is incredibly easy to make and delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes. The garlic butter sauce enhances the natural richness of the salmon without overpowering it, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavor and tenderness. It’s perfect with just about any side—veggies, rice, potatoes, or salad—and is a reliable go-to for healthy, flavorful dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon slices (for garnish)
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for the baking dish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Place the salmon fillets in the prepared dish, skin-side down if using skin-on.
3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
5. Add lemon slices on top or around the salmon for added flavor and presentation.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter.
• Herb Swap: Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of parsley or dill.
• Foil Packets: Wrap each fillet in foil with the garlic butter for easier cleanup and extra moisture.
• Honey Garlic: Mix in a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Mustard Twist: Add a bit of Dijon mustard for extra tang and depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or in a skillet over low heat until just heated through.
Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the salmon from drying out.
Not recommended for freezing if already cooked, but raw, pre-seasoned salmon can be frozen and baked from thawed.

FAQs

What kind of salmon works best for this recipe?

Atlantic, Sockeye, Coho, or King salmon all work well. Choose skin-on for extra moisture, or skinless for convenience.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking for best texture and flavor.

Should I bake salmon covered or uncovered?

Bake uncovered for lightly crisp edges. If you want extra moist results, cover with foil.

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use a plant-based butter alternative or olive oil instead of butter.

What sides go well with garlic butter salmon?

Serve with roasted veggies, rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes, mix it in advance and refrigerate. Rewarm gently to pour or brush over the salmon.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this salmon is naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb meal plan.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is best, but you can substitute with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder if needed.

What’s the best pan for baking salmon?

Use a glass or ceramic baking dish, or a sheet pan lined with parchment for easy cleanup.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a fast, fuss-free meal that’s loaded with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. With tender, flaky fish and a savory garlic lemon butter sauce, it’s a comforting yet elegant dish you’ll return to again and again. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying dinner that never disappoints.

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

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Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a quick, flavorful dish with tender, flaky salmon fillets baked in a rich garlic butter and lemon sauce. It’s elegant yet easy, making it ideal for both weeknights and special occasions.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Place salmon fillets in the dish, skin-side down if using skin-on.
3. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush or spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon.
5. Top or surround the salmon with lemon slices.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Swap herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Use foil packets for easier cleanup and extra moisture.
• Add 1 tbsp honey for a sweet-savory variation.
• Use Dijon mustard in the garlic butter for tanginess.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with sauce
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 95mg