Welcome to Eminent Recipes, where simple ingredients turn into comforting, flavorful meals made for real life. Inspired by the heart of my kitchen and the love of sharing approachable dishes, this baked salmon recipe brings together ease and elegance. Whether you’re looking for easy baked salmon recipes for busy nights or the best baked salmon recipe in the world to impress guests, this oven baked salmon delivers balance, flavor, and confidence in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked salmon recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. If you’re searching for easy baked salmon recipes that deliver restaurant-quality flavor at home, this dish checks every box. With the ideal baked salmon temperature of 400°F, you’ll achieve a tender, flaky texture every time. It’s one of those baked salmon recipes that feels gourmet but requires minimal prep.
Busy weeknight? This oven baked salmon cooks in under 20 minutes. Hosting guests? It easily transforms into the best baked salmon recipe in the world with simple additions like herbs or baked salmon with cream cheese. The versatility makes it one of the most reliable baked salmon fillet recipes for any occasion.
You can prepare baked salmon in foil for extra moisture or roast it uncovered for slightly crisp edges. It pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or salads, creating balanced one-pan meals. This baked salmon recipe is family-friendly, nutritious, customizable, and packed with flavor, making it a staple you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients for This Recipe
This baked salmon recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that enhance the natural richness of the fish. Quality salmon fillets are the foundation of great baked salmon fillet recipes. Olive oil or butter adds moisture, while garlic and lemon bring bright, bold flavor. The seasoning blend creates depth without overpowering the delicate salmon.
For those exploring baked salmon with cream cheese, the creamy topping adds indulgence and locks in moisture during baking. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill elevate this oven baked salmon with color and freshness. Keeping ingredients simple ensures the baked salmon temperature and cooking method shine through, making this one of the best baked salmon recipes for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
🛒 Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Juice of 1 lemon
Lemon slices
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional:
2–3 tablespoons cream cheese
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fresh dill
How to Make This Recipe
Mastering this baked salmon recipe is all about proper seasoning and correct baked salmon temperature. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, the ideal temperature for oven baked salmon. Pat the salmon fillets dry to ensure even cooking. Arrange them on a lined baking sheet or prepare baked salmon in foil for a juicier result.
Season generously with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor and keeps the salmon tender. If making baked salmon with cream cheese, spread a thin layer over the top before baking.
🛒 Steps:
Preheat oven to 400°F
Line baking sheet or prepare foil
Pat salmon fillets dry
Drizzle olive oil or butter
Add garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano
Squeeze lemon juice and add slices
Bake 12–15 minutes
Check internal baked salmon temperature
Rest 3–5 minutes before serving
This easy baked salmon recipe ensures perfectly flaky results every time.
Expert Cooking Tips
Perfect baked salmon recipes depend on timing and temperature control. Always monitor baked salmon temperature with a thermometer; 125–130°F yields tender, moist salmon, while 145°F gives a firmer texture. Avoid overcooking, as salmon continues cooking after removal from the oven.
For ultra-juicy results, try baked salmon in foil to trap steam and flavor. If you prefer texture, bake uncovered for slightly crisp edges. High-quality salmon makes a noticeable difference in baked salmon fillet recipes, so choose fresh, vibrant cuts whenever possible.
Adding a thin layer of baked salmon with cream cheese prevents dryness and introduces a creamy contrast. Let the salmon rest before serving to redistribute juices. These simple strategies elevate this dish into the best baked salmon recipe in the world.
💡 Expert Tips:
Use a thermometer for accurate baked salmon temperature
Choose evenly sized salmon fillets
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet
Rest salmon before serving
Use foil for moisture retention
Add fresh herbs after baking for bright flavor
FAQs
What is the best baked salmon temperature?
The ideal baked salmon temperature is 400°F for even cooking and flaky texture.
How long do baked salmon fillet recipes take?
Most oven baked salmon takes 12–15 minutes depending on thickness.
Is baked salmon in foil better?
Baked salmon in foil locks in moisture, while uncovered baking adds slight crispness.
Can I make baked salmon with cream cheese?
Yes, spreading cream cheese on top before baking creates a rich and creamy variation.
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This baked salmon recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Whether you prefer baked salmon in foil, creamy baked salmon with cream cheese, or classic oven baked salmon with lemon and garlic, this dish delivers consistent results. With the right baked salmon temperature and fresh ingredients, you’ll enjoy one of the most reliable baked salmon recipes for weeknights or special gatherings. Simple, balanced, and endlessly customizable, this truly is a go-to favorite.
Print
Baked Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This juicy, flavorful baked salmon is perfectly seasoned with garlic, lemon, and butter, then oven-roasted until tender and flaky. It’s one of the best baked salmon recipes for an easy weeknight dinner or an elegant meal that feels restaurant-quality — with minimal effort.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Juice of 1 lemon
Lemon slices (for topping)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Additions:
2–3 tablespoons cream cheese (for baked salmon with cream cheese variation)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or prepare foil if making baked salmon in foil.
Pat salmon dry with paper towels.
Place fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil or butter.
Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and minced garlic evenly over the fillets.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and place lemon slices over each piece.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness.
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 125–145°F (depending on preferred doneness).
Remove from oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
✔ Best Baked Salmon Temperature: 400°F gives the perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy center.
✔ Foil Method: Wrap salmon tightly in foil before baking for extra moisture.
✔ Creamy Version: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs over the fillet before baking.
✔ Don’t Overcook: Salmon continues cooking slightly after removing from the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean