Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels special, you’ve come to the right place! This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just about the tender, flaky salmon drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce; it’s also about how easy it is to whip up on busy weeknights or for family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that everyone will love and beg for seconds!

This dish is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to impress your loved ones. Pair it with your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a wholesome meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Let’s dive into why this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Health-Friendly: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this salmon is not only delicious but good for your heart too.
• Family-Approved: With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.
• Versatile Side Options: Feel free to swap out the broccoli for any seasonal vegetables you have on hand!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra portions for lunch the next day; it reheats beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe uses simple, wholesome items that are easy to find at your local grocery store. You’ll love how each ingredient works together to create something truly special.

For the Salmon and Veggies

• 4 (6 ounces each) salmon fillets
• 4 to 6 cups broccoli florets

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 lemon (halved, divided)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using trout or chicken breasts instead—both work wonderfully!
• Change up the veggies: Use asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers if broccoli isn’t your favorite.
• Add some spice: For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
• Try different herbs: Basil or dill can add an exciting twist if you want to switch up the flavor profile.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400˚F. This step is crucial because you want your salmon to cook evenly and get that lovely flaky texture. While it’s warming up, grab your sheet pan and give it a light coating of cooking spray.

Step 2: Arrange Salmon and Broccoli

Next, arrange those beautiful salmon fillets alongside fresh broccoli florets on your greased sheet pan. Don’t forget to rub minced garlic over each fillet! This step infuses flavor right where it matters most.

Step 3: Whisk Together Your Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter with brown sugar, oregano, thyme, and rosemary until well combined. The melted butter acts as a carrier for all those aromatic herbs and will coat everything beautifully.

Step 4: Drizzle It All On

Now comes the fun part! Pour that luscious garlic butter sauce over the salmon and veggies. Take half of the lemon and squeeze its juice over everything—it brightens up the dish perfectly!

Step 5: Seasoning Time

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing all those wonderful flavors!

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the sheet pan into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145˚F degrees. Keep an eye on it—you’ll know it’s ready when that delicious aroma fills your kitchen!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, take a moment to admire your creation! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve alongside lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal!

With this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe in your arsenal, you’ll always have an easy go-to dinner option that brings smiles around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Cooking salmon can be a breeze if you follow a few simple tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh salmon and vegetables make a significant difference in flavor and texture. Always choose vibrant broccoli florets and high-quality salmon fillets for the best results.
• Don’t overcook the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Remove the fish from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork to prevent dryness.
• Experiment with herbs: While this recipe uses oregano, thyme, and rosemary, feel free to try other herbs like dill or parsley. Each herb offers a unique flavor profile that can enhance your dish.
• Let it rest before serving: After removing the salmon from the oven, let it rest for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, making it even more tender and flavorful.
• Customize your veggies: While broccoli is delicious, don’t hesitate to swap it out for other vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or green beans. The garlic butter sauce pairs well with many options!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Serving your Garlic Butter Baked Salmon can be just as delightful as cooking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautiful presentation that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives over the salmon just before serving to add color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an extra citrusy kick with their meal.
• Toasted nuts: A sprinkle of toasted almonds or pine nuts adds crunch and an unexpected flavor contrast that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side that balances the richness of the salmon.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a sweet contrast to the savory garlic butter flavor of the salmon while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus tossed in olive oil and sprinkled with salt offers a crisp texture that pairs nicely with baked salmon.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: For a creamy side that’s low in carbs but high in flavor, whip up some garlic mashed cauliflower. Its smooth consistency complements the flaky salmon perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Garlic Butter Baked Salmon experience. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, which makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store your leftovers and keep that delicious flavor intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon and broccoli in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate promptly and consume within 2-3 days for the best taste.
• You can separate the salmon from the veggies if you prefer.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions of salmon tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that while the texture may change slightly, the flavor will still be delightful!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) and place salmon on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave using a microwave-safe dish covered with a paper towel for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe.

Can I use other vegetables with Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers. Just ensure they’re cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

How do I know when my Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is done?

Your Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145˚F (63˚C). Trust me; it’s worth having a reliable meat thermometer on hand!

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside roasted potatoes or crusty bread to soak up that lovely garlic butter sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon recipe as much as I do! It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor—a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’m sure it will become a favorite at your dinner table. Happy cooking!