Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish packed with flavor. The rich butter and fragrant garlic blend beautifully with the natural taste of salmon, while lemon adds a touch of brightness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and cleanup.

ingredients

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

salmon filletsunsalted buttergarlic cloves (minced)lemon juicefresh parsley (chopped)saltblack pepperpaprika (optional)lemon slices (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper.

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared dish.

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika if using.

Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.

Top with lemon slices and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Uncover and broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden finish, if desired.

Garnish with extra parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 15-18 minutesOptional broiling: 2-3 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter version.

Add a touch of honey or brown sugar for a sweet-savory flavor.

Include fresh dill or thyme for a herbaceous twist.

Use foil packets for individual servings and easier cleanup.

Top with parmesan for an extra cheesy crust.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through.Microwave on low power in short bursts to avoid drying out.Do not freeze once cooked, as texture may be compromised.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just be sure to fully thaw and pat dry before baking.

Do I need to remove the salmon skin?

No, baking with the skin helps keep the fish moist. You can remove it after baking if preferred.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, substitute ½ teaspoon garlic powder per clove of fresh garlic.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

Can I grill instead of bake?

Absolutely, just wrap in foil and grill over medium heat for 12-15 minutes.

What side dishes go well with this?

Rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad all pair beautifully.

Can I use a different fish?

Yes, trout or cod are good alternatives, though baking time may vary.

How do I know when salmon is done?

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

What type of butter should I use?

Unsalted butter is best to control the seasoning.

Should I marinate the salmon first?

It’s not necessary due to the flavorful garlic butter, but a short marinade is optional.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is an effortless yet impressive dish that brings bold flavor and tender texture to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, it’s a reliable recipe that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to way to enjoy salmon.

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