Easy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

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Looking for a foolproof way to impress guests or just level up your weeknight dinner game? This Easy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon might just be the ultimate answer. It’s rich, flaky, and drenched in a luscious garlic herb butter that seeps into every bite.

Baking salmon this way brings out its natural richness while keeping things light and wholesome. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple meal at home, the recipe comes together fast, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Easy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, you’ll want to prep your kitchen with a few simple tools that make a huge difference:

• Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: A ceramic or glass baking dish helps conduct heat evenly, ensuring that the salmon cooks uniformly. If you’re making a larger batch, a sheet pan lined with parchment paper works great.
• Small Saucepan or Skillet: For melting the butter and infusing it with garlic and herbs. Stainless steel or nonstick pans are both fine here.
• Basting Brush or Spoon: To coat the salmon fillets evenly with the garlic butter mixture.
• Aluminum Foil (optional): Great for tenting the salmon if you want to prevent the top from over-browning or drying out.
• Digital Thermometer: Optional but helpful to ensure your salmon reaches the ideal internal temperature (125°F for medium, 135°F for well-done).

These simple tools streamline your prep and guarantee a succulent, flavorful result every time.

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Ingredients for the Easy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role, building layers of flavor that complement the natural richness of salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: The star of the dish. Opt for skin-on fillets if possible to lock in moisture during baking.
• Unsalted Butter: Creates the base of the garlic sauce, adding richness and helping carry the flavors of the herbs and garlic.
• Fresh Garlic: Finely minced or grated, garlic brings bold aromatic depth and a savory bite.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a vibrant, herby freshness that balances the richness of the butter.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the entire dish, cutting through the fat and enhancing the salmon’s flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste to elevate the natural flavors.
• Optional: Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a slight kick if you enjoy heat.

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How To Make the Easy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to help the butter cling better.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and stir for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned). Stir in chopped parsley, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Place salmon fillets in the prepared dish skin-side down. Pour or brush the garlic butter sauce evenly over each piece, making sure every part is coated. If desired, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque pink center. For a golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. Spoon over any remaining butter from the pan. Garnish with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Your Easy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

When it comes to serving, this salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think steamed broccoli, roasted baby potatoes, herbed rice, or even a fresh garden salad. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower mash or sautéed spinach.

To store leftovers, let the salmon cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F to preserve moisture. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the fish.

If you plan on freezing, wrap the cooled salmon tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of salmon should I use for baking?

Both wild-caught and farm-raised work well. Wild salmon has a firmer texture and more pronounced flavor, while farmed salmon tends to be milder and fattier.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the butter sauce adhere properly.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

Fresh parsley adds the best flavor and color, but you can substitute dried parsley in a pinch. Use about one-third the amount if using dried.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can substitute with white wine vinegar or even a splash of apple cider vinegar. The acidity is important to balance the richness of the butter.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Look for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork. For precision, check that the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium or up to 135°F if you prefer it well done.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. The flavor will differ slightly but still be delicious.

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Want More Salmon Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving the rich, buttery flavors of this dish, there are plenty more satisfying salmon recipes to explore. For something zesty and bold, try the Flavorful Bang Bang Salmon, which adds a creamy-spicy twist.

Another baked favorite is the Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, perfect for those who crave a sweet-savory combo. You can also experiment with something a bit more adventurous, like the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if you’re into seafood-forward baked dishes.

Don’t miss the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta—they’re not fish-based but share the same buttery, garlicky DNA.

Or for a lighter twist on seafood, the Mediterranean Salmon Patties offer a pan-fried alternative that’s equally satisfying.

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If you try this Easy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, drop a comment below and let me know how it went! Did you adjust the seasoning? Did you try it with dill or thyme instead? I’m always curious how each kitchen adds its own flair.

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