Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon features tender, flaky salmon fillets bathed in a luscious garlic-butter sauce, baked to perfection. It’s quick, flavorful, and elegant—ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortlessly this salmon comes together with rich, garlicky butter that seeps into every bite. It’s moist, savory, and packed with flavor, yet still light and healthy. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes from prep to table—I enjoy the simplicity without compromising taste.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless

• Unsalted butter

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Fresh lemon juice

• Lemon zest (optional)

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: smoked paprika or red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Preheat oven. I set my oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and line a baking dish or sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare garlic butter. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, I melt the butter, then stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of lemon zest if I’m using it.

3. Season salmon. I pat the salmon dry, season lightly with salt, pepper, and smokes paprika or red pepper flakes if I want a hint of warmth.

4. Place fillets and pour sauce. I arrange the salmon fillets in the prepared dish and pour the garlic-butter over the top, using a spoon to coat evenly.

5. Bake. I bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

6. Broil (optional). For a golden top, I broil on high for an additional 1–2 minutes—watching carefully to avoid burning.

7. Garnish and serve. I sprinkle chopped parsley or dill over the salmon and spoon any pan juices on top. It’s ready to serve straight from the oven!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 4 servings (about 6 oz salmon each)

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 12–15 minutes (plus ≤2 minutes broiling)

• Total time: Approximately 20 minutes

Variations

• Creamy dill twist: Stir a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt with dill into the butter sauce before baking.

• Honey garlic glaze: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the garlic-butter mixture for a touch of sweetness.

• Spicy lemon: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes and extra lemon zest for a bright, zesty punch.

• Parmesan crust: Top each fillet with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a savory crust.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm it in a 300 °F (150 °C) oven for about 10 minutes, spooning any reserved garlic butter over the top to keep it moist. I avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

1. What’s the best way to check for doneness?

I slide a fork into the thickest part of the fillet—if it flakes easily and the interior is opaque, it’s ready. The internal temperature should reach around 145 °F (63 °C).

2. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes—I thaw the salmon overnight in the fridge first, then pat dry before seasoning. I may add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely—as long as the butter and other ingredients are pure and unflavored, it’s naturally gluten-free.

4. Can I cook this on the grill instead?

Yes—I brush the garlic-butter over salmon fillets and grill skin-side down over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes, then flip and cook 3–4 more minutes until done.

5. What should I serve with this salmon?

I love it with steamed veggies, roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or a simple arugula salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is one of my favorite go-to dishes—delicious, satisfying, and effortless. With minimal prep and a burst of flavor, it’s perfect for weeknights or dinner gatherings. I hope it brings delicious ease and joy to your table!