Name: Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it delivers perfectly moist and flaky salmon with minimal effort. The garlic butter sauce enhances the natural richness of the fish, while the lemon and herbs add brightness and freshness. It’s a healthy, flavorful dish that cooks quickly and requires just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for another minute.
Remove from heat and pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap fresh rosemary and thyme for Italian seasoning for a different herbal twist.
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle smoky heat.
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Top with chopped fresh dill or basil for an extra herbaceous note.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a low oven (around 275°F/135°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain moisture and flavor.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque throughout. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking for even cooking.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

You can substitute dried parsley (use about 1 teaspoon) or omit it altogether. Fresh herbs add the best flavor, but dried can work in a pinch.

Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before pouring over the salmon.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I bake the salmon at a different temperature?

Baking at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for a quick cook and crispy edges, but you can bake at 375°F (190°C) for a slightly gentler cook—just add a few more minutes.

What side dishes go well with garlic butter baked salmon?

Roasted or steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad pair wonderfully with this salmon.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic on medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking sheet and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure even baking.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With its rich, buttery garlic sauce and fresh herbs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for salmon lovers. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, it’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor.