Oven-Baked Garlic Butter Salmon

The most flavorful Garlic Butter Baked Salmon — tender, flaky fillets glazed in a rich garlic-butter sauce with lemon and Dijon. This simple, healthy recipe comes together in under 20 minutes and works perfectly for weeknights or special dinners.

This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is one of the easiest, most reliable salmon recipes to make at home. Salmon fillets are coated in a lemony, garlicky butter that includes a touch of Dijon mustard; it adds bright flavor while keeping the fish moist and tender. The whole dish is ready in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings, but it’s elegant enough for a date night. Serve over rice, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This

• Quick and easy – ready in under 20 minutes using simple pantry ingredients, perfect for weeknights.
• Healthy – salmon provides high-quality protein and heart-healthy fats, making this both nourishing and satisfying.
• Versatile – pairs well with many sides: roasted vegetables, green beans, rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a side salad.
• Great for meal prep – leftovers reheat well and can be used in salads, grain bowls, or wraps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) – skin-on fillets work best; use fresh or fully thawed frozen salmon.
• 1 tsp salt – for seasoning.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – or to taste.
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter – this forms the base of the sauce; you can substitute olive oil if desired.
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic – fresh or jarred minced garlic both work.
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice – plus extra lemon slices for topping.
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard – adds a bright, savory lift to the sauce.
• Fresh chopped parsley – for garnish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

1. Preheat and prepare. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Let the salmon sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
2. Season the fillets. Generously season each fillet with salt and pepper.
3. Make the garlic butter. In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. Coat the salmon. Spoon or brush the butter mixture evenly over each fillet so the tops are well coated. Place a lemon slice on each fillet if desired.
5. Bake. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you like a more browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning. For reference, an internal temperature of about 125–130°F (52–54°C) yields medium doneness; cook a bit longer if you prefer it fully cooked.
6. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for the Best Baked Salmon

• Pat the salmon dry – removing excess moisture helps the seasoning and butter adhere.
• Use even-sized fillets – pieces of similar thickness cook evenly; check thinner pieces earlier.
• High heat works best – 400°F cooks salmon quickly while keeping it moist.
• Avoid overcooking – remove the salmon when it is just opaque in the center; it will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
• Let it rest briefly – allow the cooked fillets to rest a few minutes to retain juices and texture.

Prepping and Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes or warm briefly in the microwave until heated through. Leftover fillets are also delicious cold over a salad or flaked into grain bowls.

Favorite Salmon Recipe Ideas

• Hummus-crusted salmon with lemon arugula salad
• Sheet-pan maple Dijon glazed salmon
• Chili-lime salmon with mango salsa
• Ginger basil salmon in foil
• Chimichurri baked salmon
• Mango Sriracha salmon tacos

Hope you enjoy this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon! If you try the recipe, consider leaving a rating or sharing a photo of your meal on social media.