Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a simple and delicious recipe that combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter with salmon fillets.

| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Cuisine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 12-15 minutes | 22-25 minutes | 4 | Easy | American |
Why This Recipe Works
I love this recipe because it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a delicious flavor profile that complements the salmon perfectly.
This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon fillets | 4 (about 6 oz each) | Fresh or frozen, thawed |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Lemon zest | 1 teaspoon | Grated |
| Dried parsley | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Black pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the butter mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Chef Tips for Perfect Results
- Make sure to pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels before baking to remove excess moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can affect the cooking time and texture of the salmon.
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor out of the dish.
- Don’t overbake the salmon, as it can become dry and tough.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the salmon, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not patting the salmon fillets dry before baking, which can affect the texture.
- Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor of the dish.
- Not whisking the butter mixture properly, which can result in a separated sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution | Impact on Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon fillets | Other fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia | May affect cooking time and texture |
| Unsalted butter | Salted butter or other types of oil | May affect flavor and texture |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.
Storage and Reheating
| Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave. |
| Freeze | Up to 3 months | Store in an airtight container or freezer bag and reheat in the oven or microwave. |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the salmon with other fish?
Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia.
However, keep in mind that the cooking time and texture may vary.
How do I know if the salmon is cooked?
The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork.
You can also check the internal temperature, which should be at least 145°F (63°C).
What if the butter mixture separates?
If the butter mixture separates, you can try whisking it again or adding a little more lemon juice.
This should help to emulsify the sauce and create a smooth texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
<p.Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary when reheated.
How do I serve this dish?
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.
In conclusion, Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter with salmon fillets.
With these simple steps and tips, you can create a dish that is perfect for any occasion.
The key to this recipe is the combination of flavors and the simplicity of the instructions.

Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400 (200°C)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet
- In a small bowl, whisk butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper
- Spoon the butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until flaky with a fork
Nutrition
Notes
Use fresh high-quality ingredients for optimal flavor
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for even cooking
Watch baking time to prevent overcooking
Alternatively, broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden crisp