Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

This baked salmon recipe features fresh fillets brushed with a flavorful mixture of garlic, butter and herbs, then roasted until tender and lightly caramelized. It’s an easy, fast weeknight dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Salmon is a reliable choice for dinner—quick to prepare and versatile. This particular baked salmon is one of my favorites when I want a simple, satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.

On busy nights I need dinner on the table fast. This baked salmon fits that need perfectly: prep takes just a few minutes and total cook time is about 20 minutes. The same sauce works whether you cook individual fillets or pour it over a whole side of salmon to feed a crowd.

Serve this salmon with simple sides like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well with garlic bread or small pastas such as orzo. For a lower-carb option try cauliflower rice.

How do you make baked salmon?

Start by whisking melted butter with brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon zest, chopped parsley, fresh thyme, salt, pepper and minced garlic. Arrange salmon fillets on a rimmed sheet pan coated with cooking spray, spoon the butter-herb mixture over the fish, and bake at 400°F for about 10–11 minutes until the salmon is opaque and nearly cooked through. Finish under the broiler for 3–4 minutes to brown and slightly crisp the edges. Garnish with extra parsley and serve.

Tips for baked salmon

• The sauce works well on other firm-fleshed fish such as swordfish, halibut, cod and trout.
• Choose fresh wild salmon when possible; farmed salmon will also work if wild is unavailable.
• Swap or add fresh herbs you have on hand—dill, basil or chives all complement salmon.
• Broiling at the end adds color and a slight crispness. Watch closely while broiling so the fish doesn’t burn.
• Pair the salmon with vegetables such as broccoli, green beans or asparagus for a balanced plate.

How do you know when salmon is done?

Salmon is cooked when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a precise check, use a digital thermometer—salmon is done at an internal temperature of 145°F. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist and tender.

Is salmon healthy?

Yes. Salmon is high in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, potassium and selenium. It’s also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. Including salmon in your rotation once a week is a simple way to boost nutrition.

This baked salmon is a reliable, kid-friendly dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights yet flavorful enough for company. Keep this recipe in your repertoire for quick, satisfying meals.

More great salmon recipes

• Salmon Foil Packets
• Greek Salmon Salad
• Marinated Salmon
• Salmon Teriyaki
• Honey Garlic Salmon