A Simple, Elegant Dinner That Always Impresses

When I want to make a meal that feels fancy but takes almost no effort, I always turn to Garlic Butter Baked Salmon. 🧄🐟🍋 It’s one of those dishes that looks and tastes restaurant-quality, yet it’s made with just a handful of fresh ingredients and ready in under 25 minutes. The result? Perfectly tender, juicy salmon that practically melts in your mouth, infused with rich garlic butter and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. It’s elegant, foolproof, and absolutely delicious every single time.

I love this recipe for busy weeknights or even special dinners—it feels luxurious but doesn’t require standing over a stove. You just bake it, breathe in that amazing buttery-garlic aroma, and serve. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish is pure simplicity done right.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond being incredibly tasty, this salmon dish is a nutrition superstar. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. It’s also loaded with high-quality protein, vitamin D, and B vitamins that help keep your energy steady. Garlic boosts immunity and has natural anti-inflammatory properties, while lemon adds vitamin C for a little antioxidant lift. Combined with olive oil and butter (healthy fats in moderation!), you’ve got a meal that’s as nourishing as it is comforting.

Adaptable Variations

• Herb Lover’s Twist: Add fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for a fragrant, garden-fresh flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of paprika or crushed red pepper flakes into the butter for gentle heat.
• Garlic Lemon Parmesan: Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan to the butter mixture for a creamy, savory twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a lighter version that’s still full of flavor.
• Foil Packet Style: Wrap the salmon in foil with the butter mixture for an easy cleanup and even juicier result.

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each fillet.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then pour any remaining garlic butter over the top.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. For a golden finish, broil the salmon for 1–2 extra minutes at the end—but watch it closely to prevent burning.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill and serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t overcook! The biggest secret to juicy salmon is pulling it out just before it’s fully opaque—residual heat finishes the job perfectly.
• Check for doneness: The ideal internal temperature for salmon is about 125°F (52°C) for moist, medium results.
• Pair it right: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in the oven or enjoy cold over a salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before baking to ensure even cooking.
2. Should I leave the skin on? Definitely! It helps keep the salmon juicy and flavorful. You can easily remove it after cooking if you prefer.
3. Can I use other fish? Absolutely. This garlic butter sauce works beautifully with cod, trout, or halibut too.
4. Can I cook it in foil? Yes—foil baking locks in moisture. Just wrap each fillet in foil with the butter mixture and bake for 15–18 minutes.

Let’s Stay Connected

If you make this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, I’d love to see how it turns out! 🧄💛 Snap a photo, share it on Pinterest, and tag me with your version—extra lemony, spicy, or herby. This recipe’s simplicity makes it endlessly customizable, and I can’t wait to see how you make it your own!