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Overhead view of baked salmon fillets in a ceramic dish, covered in a glossy garlic butter sauce with herbs and lemon wedges.

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Say goodbye to dry, overcooked salmon forever. This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe uses a simple oven-baking method to guarantee perfect results every time. Fresh salmon fillets are enveloped in a luxuriously simple sauce of melted butter, fragrant garlic, and bright lemon, then baked to tender perfection. It’s a healthy, protein-packed meal that feels indulgent and requires minimal cleanup.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 (6-ounce) center-cut salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

 

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 8-10 large garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill or thyme (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)

Instructions

 

  1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Season: Place salmon in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season all over with salt and pepper.
  3. Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and optional herbs and red pepper flakes.
  4. Coat: Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon. Tuck lemon slices around the fillets.
  5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Rest & Serve: Remove from oven, spoon the pan sauce over the salmon, and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

 

  • For the best texture, ensure your salmon is very dry before adding oil and seasoning.
  • The exact bake time depends on the thickness of your fillets. Check early to avoid overcooking.
  • For a dairy-free version, use a high-quality plant-based butter.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently.