Garlic Butter Salmon
This easy oven-baked garlic butter salmon is seasoned with a sweet and savory paste for a quick weeknight dinner that is flaky and delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off
- 3 tablespoons garlic butter (softened; or use compound butter)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark) Honey or maple syrup can replace brown sugar.
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet) Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic butter, brown sugar, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until it becomes a spreadable paste.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if applicable.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet, coating the top and sides.
- Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the fillets.
Cooking
- Bake on the middle rack for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque.
- Let the fillets rest for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Pat dry salmon fillets with paper towels before buttering. Skin-on fillets help prevent overcooking. Resting is important for texture. Adjust bake time for thicker fillets.