Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

You’ll love how simple and delicious this Baked Salmon Recipe is! I use fresh lemon juice, melted butter, and fresh garlic, along with a blend of spices to bring out the rich, delicate flavors of the salmon. The fish is then wrapped in foil and baked to perfection, ensuring it stays moist and tender. Ready in less than 30 minutes, this no-fuss, no-mess recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight. Plus, the foil makes cleanup a breeze! It’s a family-favorite that’s sure to become a regular at your dinner table.

 

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and every time I do, my family always asks for more. They’ve actually started calling me the Queen of Salmon Recipes—and for good reason! I’m constantly testing and retesting new salmon dishes for both my family and my readers.

Here at Primavera Kitchen, you’ll find over 25 salmon recipes to suit every taste. From a simple Pan Seared Salmon, to sweet and tangy Honey Garlic Salmon, crispy Broiled Salmon, flavorful Air Fryer Salmon Bites, and even hearty Salmon Steaks—you name it, it’s here.

But one of my all-time favorites is this Baked Salmon recipe. Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it’s also flaky and packed with flavor from the garlic butter and lemon sauce. Plus, it’s a breeze to make since it’s cooked in foil—easy cleanup included!

If you’re looking for delicious side dishes to go with this baked salmon, try it with some green beans, broccoli, mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, and/or rice.

Recipe Ingredients

How To Make Baked Salmon

• Thaw salmon overnight in the fridge (place it on a plate to catch any drips). In a pinch, submerge it in a bowl of cold water—it should be ready in about an hour, depending on thickness.
• Preheat the oven to 400ºF and prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
• In a small bowl, add lemon juice, garlic, and melted butter and whisk until combined.

• Remove the salmon from the fridge and pat it dry with a paper towel. Place the salmon (skin side down) on a baking sheet and pour the butter mixture over it.

• Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.

• Fold the sides of the foil over the salmon to fully seal it.

• Place the sheet pan into the oven, and bake until cooked, about 12-16 minutes.
• Open the foil, and broil salmon for 2-3 minutes until the tops are golden. Be careful not to burn the fish by keeping a close eye on it.

• Remove the sheet pan from the oven when the salmon flakes easily with a fork. For perfect doneness, insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the salmon —it should read 145°F.

How long do you cook salmon in the oven at 400?

It will depend on the size and the thickness of your salmon filet. If your filet is very thick, I would say about 15 minutes in the oven at 400ºF. But it has a normal size, I would say about 12-13 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

How to Tell When Salmon Is Done

Use a thermometer: Insert it into the thickest part.

• 115–125°F: Medium-rare
• 125–140°F: Medium to well-done
• 140°F: Fully cooked—take it out!

No thermometer? Gently flake the salmon with a fork. It should separate easily and look cooked to your preference.

Know your preference: Like steak, salmon doneness is personal. Try a few levels to find what you like best.

How To Store Leftovers

To Store — Transfer leftover to an airtight glass container and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Or, portion it out into meal prep containers to have for lunches throughout the week.

To Freeze — I like to place it in an airtight freezer-friendly container or freezer bags. Keep in the freezer for up to 4 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To Reheat — Heat the leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add some olive oil to a hot pan and add the salmon to it. Cook until heated through.