Name: Garlic Butter Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped (optional); Lemon slices, for garnish

Garlic Butter Salmon is absolutely dreamy: tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection in a rich, golden pool of garlic butter. Every bite is bursting with savory, lemony goodness and just the right amount of fresh herbs for an irresistible finish.

The best part? This gorgeous main dish comes together in just 30 minutes, right in your oven! It's an effortless weeknight hero, but elegant enough to wow guests for special occasions or date night.

If you're searching for a show-stopper that's both foolproof and loaded with flavor, this recipe is a must-try. Inspired by coastal bistros and family Sunday suppers, Garlic Butter Salmon has quickly become my go-to for comforting, crowd-pleasing dinners.

Juicy garlic butter salmon fillets in pan with lemon and parsley

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes - Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing last-minute dinner guests!
Incredibly flavorful - The garlic butter sauce perfectly compliments rich, flaky salmon.
Foolproof and forgiving - Simple directions with big results, great for beginner cooks.
Healthy and satisfying - Packed with protein, omega-3s, and fresh ingredients.

Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Salmon Fillets

Salmon is the undisputed star of this dish, lending its rich, buttery texture and delicate flavor to every bite. Choose skinless or skin-on fillets, around 6 ounces each, for even cooking. Wild-caught salmon has a firmer texture and deeper flavor, but farm-raised is often more budget-friendly. If frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic infuses the butter with deep, aromatic flavor, creating the signature taste of this classic dish. Be sure to mince the garlic finely to avoid any raw, overpowering bites. If you're in a pinch, jarred minced garlic will work, but nothing beats freshly chopped cloves.

Unsalted Butter

Butter is the luxurious base of the sauce, providing richness and ensuring the salmon stays moist and tender as it bakes. Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning. For a lighter version, you can swap half the butter for olive oil-the result will still be deliciously silky!

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice brightens up the sauce, cutting through the richness and awakening all the flavors. Squeeze from a fresh lemon for the best taste. Lime juice is a fun twist, or try a splash of white wine for an extra layer of sophistication.

Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Dill)

Chopped fresh parsley or dill adds color and a burst of freshness at the end. Italian parsley brings a mild, clean flavor, while dill adds that distinctive, savory edge. Dried herbs will work in a pinch, but reduce the quantity as they are more concentrated.

Instructions for Garlic Butter Salmon

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking dish or rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and dill (if using). Season with salt and black pepper.

Arrange and Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Brush the garlic butter sauce generously over the top and sides of each fillet. Tuck a few lemon slices next to or on top of the salmon.

Bake the Salmon

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork and is just opaque in the center. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. For a golden top, broil for an extra 1-2 minutes at the end-just keep a close eye to avoid burning the garlic.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley before serving. Spoon any pan juices over the fish and garnish with additional lemon slices if desired.

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Craving some heat? Add up to ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the garlic butter for a subtle, spicy kick.

Go Dairy-Free

For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with your favorite plant-based butter or olive oil. The result is just as rich and delicious, but completely lactose-free.

Try Different Herbs

Switch up the fresh herbs to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Chives, basil, or tarragon all pair amazingly with salmon and garlic butter.

Sheet Pan Dinner

Add halved baby potatoes, asparagus, or broccoli around the salmon before baking for a complete one-pan meal. Drizzle the veggies with a little extra garlic butter so everything roasts to perfection together.

Citrus Twist

Instead of just lemon, try a blend of lemon and orange or use lime juice for a zesty, tropical flavor profile that transforms the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Garlic Butter Salmon over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or quinoa to soak up the luscious sauce. For a colorful, balanced meal, add a simple green vegetable like steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted broccoli. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges for the finishing touch.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place the fillets in a baking dish, splash with a tablespoon of water or broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through (about 10 minutes). You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, but be careful not to overcook. Freezing is possible for up to 1 month-wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Salmon (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

A: Yes! Just thaw the salmon fully in the refrigerator and pat it dry before baking to ensure a perfect texture.

Q: How do I know when the salmon is done?

A: The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center. An internal temperature of 145°F means it's perfect.

Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop or grill?

A: Absolutely! Cook the salmon in a hot, oiled skillet over medium-high heat, basting with the garlic butter until cooked through, or grill over medium heat, brushing with sauce as it cooks.

Garlic Butter Salmon is the ultimate easy yet impressive main dish. It's so simple, so succulent, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Try it tonight, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating to let me know how it turned out!