Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Introduction

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is one of the simplest yet most flavorful seafood dishes you can prepare. The rich, flaky salmon fillets are baked to perfection in a luscious garlic butter sauce that infuses every bite with savory, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This dish highlights the natural flavors of salmon while enhancing it with a balance of garlic, lemon, herbs, and creamy butter.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even a romantic date night at home. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this baked salmon is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe ❤️

I love this recipe because it’s quick, healthy, and elegant. The salmon cooks in under 20 minutes, yet it tastes like something you’d order at a fine restaurant. The garlic butter sauce gives the fish a rich, silky flavor, while lemon adds a refreshing brightness. It’s also a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes to clean—always a win in my book!

Another reason I love it is how versatile it is. I can serve it with roasted veggies, rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad, and it always feels like a complete meal. Plus, salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it as nourishing as it is delicious.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Restaurant-quality flavor at home in less than 30 minutes.
• Nutritious and wholesome, rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
• Perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight meals to dinner parties.
• Beginner-friendly recipe with foolproof results.
• Customizable with herbs, spices, or additional flavors.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~350–400 kcal per serving (varies by salmon cut and butter amount)
• Cuisine: American / International
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or dill for variation)
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions (Simple Version)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings.
3. Place salmon fillets in a baking dish and brush generously with the garlic butter sauce.
4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Baking Dish

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon

• Place salmon fillets in the baking dish, skin side down.
• Brush or spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

• Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness.
• Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and garnish with lemon slices.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes.
• Pair with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh side salad.
• Add a drizzle of extra garlic butter sauce over the top before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overbake—the salmon should remain moist and tender.
• If you like crispy edges, broil for the last 2 minutes.
• For richer flavor, let salmon marinate in the garlic butter sauce for 15 minutes before baking.

Variations

• Herb Lovers: Add fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Honey Garlic Salmon: Add 1 tbsp honey to the garlic butter sauce.
• Parmesan Salmon: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the fillets before baking.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap cooled salmon fillets tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Basting brush (optional but helpful)
• Meat thermometer (for perfect doneness)

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is the ultimate quick, healthy, and flavorful main dish. With its golden buttery garlic glaze and tender, flaky salmon, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.