Baked salmon fillets brushed with garlic butter, garnished with lemon slices and parsley on a wooden surface.

Flavour Quest Recipes

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Garlic butter baked salmon is a simple, flavorful oven dish made with tender salmon fillets, rich butter, and fragrant garlic. Baked until flaky and finished with bright lemon, it’s an easy, wholesome dinner that feels elegant without extra effort.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

4 Salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
3 tbsp Butter melted
3 Cloves garlic minced
1 Lemon juice
1 tsp Lemon zest
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black pepper
1 tsp Paprika
2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Lemon slices for garnish

Method

Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Season the Salmon
Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or spoon the garlic butter mixture generously over each fillet.
Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Finish and Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

🔄 Variations

Add lemon slices or fresh dill before baking for extra freshness.

Swap butter for olive oil for a lighter option.

Sprinkle with paprika or Cajun seasoning for gentle heat.

Top with Parmesan during the last few minutes for a savory finish.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad.
Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or quinoa for a healthy meal.
A simple green salad or steamed asparagus pairs beautifully with the garlic butter flavor.

❄️ Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold in salads or wraps.

💡 Tips

Pat the salmon dry before baking to help it cook evenly.

Avoid overbaking—salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the salmon before serving for extra moisture.

❓ FAQs

Q: How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?
A: Salmon is done when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before baking for best results.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored and enjoyed the next day.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.