Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a simple, flavorful meal that comes together in no time—and that’s exactly what this Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe delivers. It’s the perfect blend of buttery richness, bright lemon, and fresh herbs that makes dinner feel special with hardly any fuss.

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Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients & Why They Work
• Make It Your Way
• Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe
• Top Tip
• How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions:
• Final Thoughts
• Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic behind this recipe lies in a handful of simple ingredients that come together to bring out the best in the salmon. Each one plays its part to keep the dish effortless yet incredibly tasty, so shopping is a breeze.

• Salmon fillets: Look for fresh, wild-caught if possible—thicker fillets bake more evenly and stay juicy.
• Butter: Unsalted butter melts into a rich sauce, adding that luxurious texture that keeps the fish moist.
• Lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy balance that cuts through the butter and enhances the fish’s natural flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic gives an aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with butter and salmon.
• Kosher salt & black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh and mildly peppery, it adds a lovely green brightness for garnish.
• Dill: Its slightly sweet and tangy notes complement salmon like nothing else.

Make It Your Way

I love to keep this recipe classic, but don’t be afraid to make it your own! Whether you want to amp up the herbs or add a spice kick, this dish invites personalization.

• Herb Variations: I've swapped dill for fresh tarragon or basil sometimes—both add a lovely twist without much effort.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, sprinkling a little red pepper flakes on top before baking works wonders.
• Butter Swap: For a lighter version, I’ve experimented with olive oil instead of butter, though it’s a different vibe but still tasty!
• Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for an extra punch if you’re a fan—just don't let it burn during baking.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe

Step 1: Get the Salmon Ready

First things first, take your salmon out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes—this little step really helps it cook evenly, giving you that perfect moist center without overcooked edges. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with a splash of fresh lemon juice. I use about half a tablespoon—if you squeeze a little lemon directly, be careful not to add seeds! This simple sauce is what keeps the salmon tender and flavorful, so don’t rush it.

Step 3: Brush and Season

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in your baking dish. Brush each fillet generously with that garlic butter mixture, making sure they’re all coated. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across the top, then season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This little layer of seasoning seals in all the yum.

Step 4: Bake It to Perfection

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes—it depends on the thickness of the fillets, but you’ll know it’s ready when salmon flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout. Keep an eye on the garlic; you don’t want it to brown too much or get bitter.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley and dill for a fresh pop of color and flavor. I also love adding a few lemon slices alongside—fresh lemon squeezed on top just before eating really brightens things up.

How to Serve Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a garnish fan because it instantly makes a dish feel polished. For this baked salmon, fresh parsley and dill are my go-to choices every time—they add a lovely herbaceous freshness. I also love a few thin lemon slices on the plate for an extra citrus pop right at the table.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs wonderfully with simple sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Sometimes I go for fluffy rice or quinoa if I want to keep things lighter but still filling. These sides soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the salmon over a bed of lemon herb risotto or alongside colorful grilled vegetables. A drizzle of extra garlic butter sauce on top just before serving adds a restaurant-worthy touch that never fails to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it keeps well for 2 to 3 days. To avoid it drying out, I pour a little bit of the leftover garlic butter over the top before sealing it up.

Freezing

I’ve frozen cooked salmon wrapped tightly in foil and then placed in a freezer bag. It works well for up to a month, though the texture is best when eaten sooner. Before freezing, I recommend portioning it so you can thaw just what you need.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the salmon loosely with foil and warm it in a low oven (around 275°F / 135°C) for about 10 minutes. This gentle heat helps the fish stay moist without drying out. Microwave works in a pinch, but be careful not to overdo it.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe is one I come back to time and again—not only because it’s incredibly delicious but because it’s foolproof and quick. It’s like a little dinner hug that feels fancy yet manageable. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a staple in your meal rotation, just like it has in mine!

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