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