If you’re looking for a simple and delicious salmon recipe, this baked salmon dish is a must-try.
Baked salmon is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any level of cook.
Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe gives you tender, flaky salmon with a tasty garlic butter seasoning that rivals restaurant-quality dishes.
Plus, it’s a healthy and budget-friendly seafood meal you can make at home anytime.
Ingredients You Need
Here are the basic ingredients for this salmon recipe:
- 1 ½ to 2 pounds salmon fillet (about six 4-ounce portions)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Garlic Butter:
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Optional garnish: fresh chopped parsley and lemon slices
Simple Steps to Bake Salmon
Follow these easy instructions to get perfectly cooked salmon:
- Rest the salmon. Let the salmon sit on the counter for 20 to 30 minutes until it reaches room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.
- Prepare the baking tray. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
- Pat dry the salmon. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the salmon fillet. This prevents steaming and helps the surface brown.
- Place the salmon. Put the salmon on the baking tray skin side down.
- Make garlic butter. Mix melted butter with minced garlic and lemon juice.
- Add garlic butter. Spoon the garlic butter evenly over the top of the salmon.
- Bake the salmon. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness by gently pulling the thickest part of the fish with a fork. It should flake easily and look opaque.
Tips for Best Baked Salmon
Use these tips to make your salmon even better:
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon. Look for salmon with a bright orange-red color and a mild sea smell. Avoid any fish with a strong fishy odor or discoloration.
- Don’t rinse your salmon. Pat dry instead to avoid water breaking down the flesh.
- Season just before baking. Salt draws out moisture, so add it only right before cooking.
- Leave the skin on. The skin protects the fish from drying out and cooks evenly. It’s easy to remove after cooking if you prefer.
- Avoid overcooking. Remove salmon from the oven when the internal temperature reaches 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit for medium rare to medium. The fish will continue to cook while resting.
Variations to Try
Try these seasoning ideas to add variety to your salmon recipe:
- Cajun salmon: Brush fillets with olive oil, sprinkle Cajun seasoning, and bake as usual.
- Dill salmon: Add fresh chopped dill on top after baking or sprinkle dried dill before baking.
- Air fryer salmon: Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes in an air fryer.
Serving Suggestions for Salmon
Pair your baked salmon with simple sides for a complete meal:
- Roasted green beans
- Potatoes au gratin
- Whole roasted cauliflower
- Waldorf salad
- Vinegar coleslaw
- Beet salad
Leftover salmon also works great in salads or salmon bowls for next-day meals.
Why This Salmon Recipe Works
I’ve made this baked salmon many times, and it never fails to impress.
The garlic butter adds a rich flavor without overpowering the fish’s natural taste.
Baking at a high temperature for a short time ensures the salmon stays juicy and tender.
This recipe is trusted by home cooks and seafood lovers alike because it’s simple, healthy, and delicious.
This salmon recipe combines ease, flavor, and nutrition, making it a perfect dish for weeknights or special occasions.
Give it a try and enjoy the benefits of a homemade seafood meal that’s both satisfying and affordable.
Easy Baked Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let the salmon rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the salmon fillet skin side down on the tray.
- Melt butter and stir in minced garlic and lemon juice to make garlic butter. Spoon it evenly over the salmon.
- Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches 120-130°F for medium doneness.
- Remove salmon from oven and let it rest before serving. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices if desired.