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Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
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Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is an easy, flavorful, and healthy dish that comes together in just 20 minutes! The salmon is perfectly flaky, tender, and infused with a rich garlic butter sauce, enhanced with fresh lemon and herbs. This foolproof recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or an elegant dinner without the hassle. Serve it with roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Calories: 320kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika optional, for color
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or fresh chopped parsley
  • For the Salmon:
  • 1 ½ pounds salmon fillet skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
  • Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  • Prepare the Salmon
  • Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the fillet and rub it evenly.
  • Pour the garlic butter sauce over the salmon, spreading it evenly with a spoon or brush.
  • Arrange lemon slices on top for extra flavor.
  • Bake the Salmon
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  • For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
  • Serve & Enjoy!
  • Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the baked salmon and serve immediately. Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes.
  • Use foil for easy cleanup! Simply wrap the salmon and bake for a mess-free dish.
  • Check doneness – salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
  • Swap seasonings – try Cajun, honey mustard, or a chili-lime twist!