Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is an effortless, delicious dish that brings bright citrus flavors and buttery richness together in one simple bake. This recipe is ideal for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner that requires minimal prep and uses pantry ingredients you probably already have. Whether you're new to cooking fish or a seasoned cook, this baked salmon will quickly become a favorite family-friendly meal.
Why You'll Love Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner)
Enjoy the Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon recipe that's quick, delicious, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner)
📋 Full measurements for Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner) are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner)
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Expert Tips for Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner)
Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner)
Enjoy the Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon recipe that's quick, delicious, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
How to Make Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the lemon butter mixture generously over each salmon fillet.
- Top each fillet with a thin slice of lemon for extra flavor and garnish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time depends on the thickness of the fillets.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended — texture changes on thawing.
- Reheat: Best served chilled or at room temperature.
Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner) FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just be sure to fully thaw and pat dry the salmon before baking for best results.
What can I serve with Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon?
This salmon goes great with roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh salad. Serve it with my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken or One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken for an easy complete meal.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just bake salmon fillets in a single layer on a larger baking sheet, adjusting baking time slightly as needed.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and makes a healthy, protein-packed meal prep option.
You Might Also Like
- Serve it with my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe
- Pair with One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken for a comforting dinner
- Try a refreshing Healthy Apple Cinnamon Smoothie as a side
Before You Go
If you try this Easy Baked Lemon Butter Salmon (Quick & Flavorful Dinner), I'd love to hear how it turned out! Leave a ⭐ rating or drop a comment below — it really helps other readers find this recipe.