There’s something profoundly comforting about the scent of garlic sizzling in butter. That smell alone brings me back to my childhood kitchen, where my mother would often whip up simple yet delicious meals with whatever was in the fridge. One of her most memorable dishes was garlic butter baked salmon—a meal that brought our family together around the table even on the busiest of weeknights.

What makes this dish so timeless is its simplicity. At its core, it’s just a few humble ingredients: fresh salmon, garlic, lemon, and butter. But when baked together, they transform into a meal that feels luxurious yet effortless. In colder months, this dish warms the house and the heart, while in spring and summer, the bright lemon and herbs keep it feeling light and fresh.

Across cultures, salmon has long symbolized prosperity and renewal. In many coastal communities, it’s celebrated during seasonal harvests or holiday meals. This recipe, with its rich garlic butter and gentle citrus lift, pays homage to those traditions while offering an easy modern twist. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or preparing a nourishing dinner for yourself, this garlic butter baked salmon is an invitation to slow down and savor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Foolproof and Fast – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Flavor-Packed – Garlic, butter, lemon, and parsley make each bite sing.
• Perfect Texture – Tender, flaky, and moist thanks to gentle oven baking.
• Minimal Cleanup – One pan, no mess, no stress.
• Weeknight or Weekend Worthy – Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for Tuesday dinner.

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INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

• 1¼ lb (550 g) salmon fillet, skin-on
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prep the salmon.
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lay the salmon fillet skin-side down on the pan. Pat the surface dry with paper towels—this helps the garlic butter cling better.
2. Prepare the garlic butter.
   In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. You’ll notice the aroma instantly—it’s bright, garlicky, and savory all at once. Let the mixture sit for a minute or two so the flavors can meld.

1. Spread generously over the salmon.
   Use a spoon or silicone spatula to spread the garlic butter mixture over the top of the salmon. Make sure every inch is coated—it creates a protective layer that keeps the fish moist and flavorful while baking.
2. Bake until flaky and juicy.
   Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches around 140°F (60°C).
3. Let it rest, then garnish and serve.
   Once out of the oven, allow the salmon to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with additional parsley and a few lemon wedges for squeezing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Helpful Tips

• Use high-quality salmon for the best texture and flavor—wild-caught if available.
• Don’t skip drying the salmon before adding butter—it helps crisp the surface slightly.
• Soften the butter, don’t melt it. Melted butter runs off the fish too quickly; softened butter clings beautifully.
• Add a foil tent during baking if your salmon is on the thinner side to prevent overcooking.
• Leftovers? Use them in a salmon salad, grain bowl, or flaky salmon wrap the next day.

DETAILS

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Oven-Baked
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb

NOTES

• For added brightness, sprinkle a little lemon zest over the top before baking.
• You can substitute fresh dill or thyme for parsley for a slightly different herb profile.
• Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad for a complete meal.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 36 g
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 530 mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just be sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight and pat dry before baking.

What other herbs can I use?
Fresh dill, thyme, chives, or even a little rosemary can complement the butter beautifully.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Try using a dairy-free butter alternative, but make sure it’s one that can hold up to baking heat.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Cool any leftovers completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture. You can also freeze cooked portions for up to 3 months—wrap tightly in foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.

Related Recipes

• A Cozy Favorite: The Heart Behind Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
• Bang Bang Salmon: A Crispy, Sweet & Spicy Weeknight Favorite
• Grilled Lime Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice
• Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo

Conclusion

This garlic butter baked salmon has earned a place at our table again and again. It’s the kind of dish that surprises people with how satisfying it is, even though it’s so simple to make. It brings a richness that feels indulgent, balanced by the brightness of lemon and the freshness of herbs. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party, a romantic night in, or just your regular Thursday night, this dish always delivers.