Name: Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper (to taste); Lemon wedges (for garnish); Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and healthy dinner, my Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is the perfect choice! 🐟🧄 This dish is packed with rich, buttery flavor and just the right amount of garlic to make each bite melt in your mouth. It’s super easy to make, and the best part? It takes just 20 minutes from start to finish! My family loves this dish because it’s light yet satisfying, and it’s one of those recipes that always feels fancy, even though it’s so easy.

Salmon is already delicious on its own, but when you add a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s taken to a whole new level. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you want a quick and impressive meal.

Why You’ll Love Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter

What’s not to love about this dish? The salmon fillets come out perfectly tender and juicy, while the garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory flavor that really brings the fish to life. Plus, it’s packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. The garlic and lemon balance each other so well, creating a fresh, aromatic sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for more.

What You’ll Need to Make Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter

4 salmon fillets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for garnish
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Season the top of each fillet with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the garlic butter: Spoon the garlic butter mixture over each salmon fillet, making sure to coat them evenly.
Bake the salmon: Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

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Fun Variations

This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is super versatile! You can add a squeeze of orange juice or a drizzle of honey to the garlic butter for a sweet twist. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the salmon before baking. You can also top the salmon with a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Ideal for a Quick and Healthy Dinner

This dish is perfect for those nights when you want a healthy and flavorful meal, but you’re short on time. It’s a one-pan dish that’s so easy to throw together, and the garlic butter sauce makes the salmon taste like it’s from a restaurant. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, making it a balanced and satisfying dinner!

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes! If you’re using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or under cold running water. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.
Can I add other seasonings to the garlic butter?
Of course! Feel free to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, some fresh thyme, or even a bit of Dijon mustard to the garlic butter for a flavor boost.
What sides should I serve with this salmon?
This baked salmon goes great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a simple side salad. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with lots of different sides!
How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just check for flakiness with a fork to be sure.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the garlic butter and season the salmon fillets ahead of time, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven and enjoy!