Best Ever Baked Salmon Recipe

This baked salmon recipe is one of those no-fuss meals that delivers restaurant-quality results—fast. It’s buttery, flaky, full of garlic-herb flavor, and finished with a light lemon kick. The kind of dish you can whip up on a Tuesday night and still serve proudly to guests.

The best part? There’s no complicated prep, and no long list of ingredients. Just fresh salmon fillets, a simple garlic butter mixture, a hot oven, and boom—you’ve got dinner handled in under 20 minutes.

Whether you’re eating lighter, cooking for the family, or just want to level up your weeknight game, this is the salmon dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Best Ever Baked Salmon Recipe

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Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped)
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
• Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

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Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and place the fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet. This helps the butter mixture stick and ensures the salmon bakes up with a crisp edge.

In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.

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Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each fillet, making sure to coat the sides too. If there’s any extra butter left in the bowl—pour it over the top.

Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temp hits 125°F to 130°F (medium doneness).

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Let it rest for 2 minutes out of the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs and a few lemon slices, and serve hot.

Notes

• Don’t overcook it. Salmon cooks quickly. The moment it turns opaque and flakes easily, it’s ready. A few extra minutes can dry it out.
  
• Use a thermometer. It’s the easiest way to get perfect doneness. Aim for 125°F for medium, or 135°F if you prefer well done.
  
• Want crispy edges? Turn on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes for extra golden color and slight crisp on the top.
  

Nutrition Information

Yield

4
Amount Per Serving Calories 350Total Fat 22gCarbohydrates 1gProtein 34g

Step-by-Step

1. Gather your ingredients.
   You just need a few pantry basics plus fresh salmon. This recipe is all about simplicity.
2. Pat salmon dry.
   This helps it sear and roast better. Moisture is the enemy of crispy.
3. Mix up your garlic butter.
   In a bowl: butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush it on generously.
   Don’t be shy here. You want every bite coated in flavor.
5. Bake.
   Into the oven at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness.
6. Rest and serve.
   Let it rest for 2 minutes, garnish with fresh herbs or lemon, and serve hot.

Customization Options

• Add spice: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the butter for a spicy kick.
• Go herb crazy: Swap in fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill instead of parsley for different flavor vibes.
• Honey Garlic Glaze: Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the garlic butter for a slightly sweet glaze that’s sticky and delicious.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Baked Salmon

Here are some of our favorite sides to round out the meal:

• Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli
  Toss in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F while the salmon cooks.
• Lemon Rice or Garlic Herb Quinoa
  Something light and citrusy balances the richness of the salmon.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Parmesan Polenta
  For a cozy comfort-food spin.
• Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette
  Adds crunch and freshness. A little arugula and lemon go a long way.

Final Thoughts: Why This Baked Salmon Recipe Just Works

This isn’t just another “easy weeknight dinner.” This baked salmon recipe is the real deal. It’s packed with flavor, comes together fast, and delivers every time. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or it’s already part of your rotation, this recipe is simple enough for beginners and delicious enough to make you feel like a pro.

Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to salmon dinner. The buttery garlic sauce, tender texture, and crispy edges hit every note just right.

Bookmark this. Save it. Share it. You’ll want this one in your back pocket.