Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

I’m excited to share a delicious and simple way to prepare salmon with this sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon recipe. If you’re looking for a recipe that packs a flavor punch without a lot of fuss, you’re in the right place. This dish takes about 30 minutes from prep to plate and is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

What truly sets this recipe apart is the combination of zesty lemon, rich garlic butter, and the succulent texture of the salmon. It’s a delightful balance of flavors that will please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or simply looking to whip up something quick yet special, this recipe is for you.

Why you’ll love sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Minimal cleanup with just one pan
• Fresh, zesty flavors that brighten any meal
• Perfect for busy weeknights
• Great for meal prep — store leftovers easily

What ingredients do I need for sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon?

• 1.5 pounds salmon fillets, skin-on
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Ingredient notes & swaps

• Butter: Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Honey: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for a different sweetness.
• Salmon: This recipe works with other fish like trout or sea bass.

How do I make sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon step-by-step?

Start by preheating your oven and preparing the salmon on a lined sheet pan. This recipe blends rich butter with garlic and a hint of honey for a mouthwatering glaze. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil.
2. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared sheet pan, skin-side down, and pat them dry.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, honey, and lemon zest.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon, ensuring it’s well coated.
5. Season the fillets with salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika.
6. Arrange the lemon slices on and around the salmon.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the salmon towards the end of the cooking time. It should be opaque and flaky.

How should I serve it?

This salmon dish is delicious on its own but can be complemented beautifully. Serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of extra lemon juice or some fresh herbs can enhance the flavors further.

Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salmon ahead of time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply place it back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

How do I fix common issues?

If your salmon turns out dry, ensure you don’t overcook it; it should flake easily but still be moist. For a bland taste, increase the seasoning with salt and pepper or add more herbs. If the salmon skin sticks, lightly grease the parchment paper before placing the fish.

What variations can I try?

Feel free to customize this dish! Add vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to the sheet pan for a complete meal. You can also swap the herbs to suit your taste—basil or dill work wonderfully if thyme and oregano aren’t your favorites.

FAQs

Can I use skinless salmon fillets?
Yes, skinless fillets will work just as well; just adjust cooking time slightly as they may cook faster.

What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs nicely with rice, quinoa, or a hearty grain salad, adding bulk and texture to your meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This salmon is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, allowing you to have a delicious dish ready to go.

This sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon is not just a recipe; it’s a way to infuse joy and simplicity into your cooking routine. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavor that’s sure to elevate your dining experience!

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

A delicious and simple sheet pan recipe featuring salmon fillets coated in a flavorful lemon garlic butter glaze, baked to perfection in just 30 minutes.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds salmon fillets, skin-on You can use other fish like trout or sea bass.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Use olive oil as a dairy-free option.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey Maple syrup can be used as a substitute.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil.
2. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared sheet pan, skin-side down, and pat them dry.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, honey, and lemon zest.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon, ensuring it’s well coated.
5. Season the fillets with salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika.
6. Arrange the lemon slices on and around the salmon.

Cooking

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
2. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

This salmon dish is delicious on its own but can be served alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of extra lemon juice or fresh herbs can enhance the flavors. Keep an eye on the salmon towards the end of the cooking time; it should be opaque and flaky. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.