This Easy Garlic Butter Salmon is rich, tender, and full of flavor.

With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality salmon dish ready in under 30 minutes.

It’s simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough to serve guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The garlic butter mixture melts into the salmon for a juicy, flavorful bite every time.

It bakes in foil for easy cleanup and foolproof results.

Fresh lemon zest and juice add brightness that balances the richness.

It’s versatile—serve with rice, pasta, or fresh vegetables.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Unsalted butter creates a silky garlic butter base.

Fresh garlic adds bold, savory flavor.

Parsley brings freshness and color.

Dijon mustard provides a tangy depth.

Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish.

Salmon fillet stays moist and tender wrapped in foil.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Bring the salmon to room temperature for even cooking.

Don’t overbake—salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Wrap the foil tightly to lock in steam and flavor.

Use wild-caught salmon if possible for the best taste and texture.

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Salmon

Step 1 – Preheat the oven

Set oven to 375°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.

Step 2 – Make the garlic butter

In a bowl, mash together butter, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and zest.

Step 3 – Prepare the salmon

Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the salmon fillet.

Step 4 – Wrap and bake

\Seal the salmon tightly in foil and bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness.

Step 5 – Rest and serve

Unwrap, let rest for 3–4 minutes, then serve warm.

What to Serve Them With

Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Serve alongside rice pilaf or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Add pasta or couscous for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Variations / Substitutions

Swap parsley with dill or basil for a different herb flavor.

Use lime juice instead of lemon for a citrus twist.

Try adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Make it dairy-free with olive oil in place of butter.

Storage & Leftovers

Store cooled salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or flake into salads and wraps.

Freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this with frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw completely before baking.

How do I know when the salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internally.

Can I cook this on the grill instead?
Yes, wrap in foil and grill over medium heat for 12–15 minutes.

What kind of salmon works best?
Both Atlantic and Pacific salmon work, but wild-caught has richer flavor.

Do I need to skin the salmon?
No, the skin can stay on—it helps keep the salmon moist.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking sheet and increase foil size.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Garlic Butter Salmon is one of those go-to recipes you’ll make again and again.

It’s quick, flavorful, and versatile—perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.