Okay, so weeknights, right? Who has time to cook something amazing after a crazy day? Not me, that’s for sure! But trust me, this Garlic Butter Salmon? It’s a total game-changer. I’m talking from fridge to table in *under* 20 minutes. Seriously!
I’ve been whipping up this recipe for, gosh, probably close to ten years now. It started as a way to get my kids to eat more fish (sneaky, I know!), and it’s become a total staple. I’ve tweaked it a million times, and this version? This is *the one*. The garlic butter just melts into the salmon, making it so tender and flavorful. Even my pickiest eater asks for seconds!
Honestly, if you’re looking for a super easy, incredibly delicious, and healthy meal, you’ve gotta try this Garlic Butter Salmon. It’s a lifesaver – and it tastes like you spent way more time on it than you actually did. 😉
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Seriously, where do I even start? This recipe is just… amazing. Here’s why you’re gonna be obsessed:
- Ridiculously quick – like, faster than ordering takeout!
- Super easy – even if you’re a total beginner in the kitchen.
- Packed with flavor – that garlic butter is seriously addictive.
- Actually healthy – good fats and protein? Yes, please!
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
Let’s be real, weeknights are hectic. This Garlic Butter Salmon is perfect because it’s so fast. You can get a healthy, home-cooked meal on the table even when you’re short on time. It’s my go-to when I’m feeling lazy (but still want something yummy!).
Incredibly Flavorful Garlic Butter Salmon
Okay, the garlic butter is where it’s at. It’s rich, savory, and just a little bit tangy from the lemon. It soaks right into the salmon, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender. Seriously, the flavor combo is just *chef’s kiss*.
Healthy and Delicious Salmon Recipe
Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, and this recipe keeps it healthy. We’re talking good fats, protein, and all sorts of good stuff. Plus, it actually tastes amazing, so you’re not sacrificing flavor for health. Win-win!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon
Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need for this amazing Garlic Butter Salmon. Don’t skimp on the fresh stuff – it makes all the difference!:
- 4 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each) – skin on or off, your call!
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – yes, real butter!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – go for fresh, the jarred stuff just isn’t the same
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – or sea salt, whatever you have on hand
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is always best!
- 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a little smokiness, yum!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – that classic flavor we all love
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – brightens everything up!
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – for that final flourish!
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Salmon: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, ready to make some magic? This is seriously so easy, you won’t believe it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect Garlic Butter Salmon every single time. I promise!
Preparing the Salmon
First things first, grab your salmon fillets. Pat them dry with paper towels – this is super important! You want them nice and dry so the seasoning sticks. Then, in a small bowl, mix together your salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Now, rub that yummy mixture all over the salmon. Don’t be shy!
Making the Garlic Butter
Next up: the star of the show – the garlic butter! In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your butter. I usually do it in 30-second intervals so it doesn’t explode, haha! Once it’s melted, stir in your minced garlic and lemon juice. Let that sit for a minute – you want the garlic to really infuse into the butter. Mmm, smells amazing already, right?
Baking the Garlic Butter Salmon
Alright, preheat your oven to 400°F. Don’t skip this step! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil – trust me, it makes cleanup a breeze. Place your salmon fillets on the baking sheet, and then evenly drizzle that glorious garlic butter all over the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s done, and it should reach an internal temperature of 140°F, if you’re being all official about it. I usually just eyeball it, haha!
Finishing Touches
Okay, this is optional, but I *highly* recommend it: pop the salmon under the broiler for about 2 minutes. Watch it like a hawk, though, because it can go from perfect to burnt in seconds! This gives it a beautiful golden, slightly crispy top. Finally, let the salmon rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley to garnish – because we’re fancy like that! 😉
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Salmon
Want to take your Garlic Butter Salmon to the next level? Of course, you do! Here are a few of my top tips for making it absolutely perfect every time. These little tweaks can make a HUGE difference, trust me!
Choosing the Right Salmon
Okay, so the salmon *really* matters here. Look for fillets that are nice and vibrant in color – a deep, rich pink is what you want. Avoid anything that looks dull or smells too fishy. Fresh is best, obviously, but frozen can work in a pinch (more on that later!).
Adjusting the Garlic Butter Flavor
Don’t be afraid to play with the garlic butter! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Or, swap out the Italian seasoning for some fresh dill or thyme. It’s your kitchen, your rules! I sometimes add a tiny splash of white wine to the butter, too. Wowza!
Garlic Butter Salmon Variations
Okay, so you’ve nailed the basic Garlic Butter Salmon (high five!). Now, let’s get a little crazy, shall we? This recipe is seriously a blank canvas for all sorts of flavor adventures. Here are some of my favorite ways to mix things up – get ready to get inspired!
First off, if you’re a spice lover like me, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter is a MUST. It adds this awesome little kick that balances out the richness of the butter. Or, how about swapping out the Italian seasoning for some fresh dill? It’s SO good with salmon. And hey, if you’re feeling *really* wild, try this with other types of fish! Cod or halibut would be amazing. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, okay?
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Salmon
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing Garlic Butter Salmon…now what? Don’t stress, I’ve got you covered! This dish is super versatile and goes with pretty much anything. My go-to is usually some roasted veggies – broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts…whatever’s in the fridge! Just toss them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast ’em up. Easy peasy!
Rice is also a great option – brown rice, white rice, even quinoa works! Or, if you’re feeling something lighter, a simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette is perfect. Honestly, you can’t go wrong! Just pick your favorite sides and enjoy!
Storing and Reheating Your Garlic Butter Salmon
So, you’ve got leftovers? Lucky you! Storing this Garlic Butter Salmon is super easy. Just pop it in an airtight container and stick it in the fridge. It’ll keep for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, I recommend doing it gently in a skillet over low heat. That way, it doesn’t dry out. A little extra pat of butter never hurts, either! 😉 You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook it. Nobody likes rubbery salmon!
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Salmon
Got questions about making this Garlic Butter Salmon? I got you! Here are a few of the most common questions I get asked. Don’t worry; there are no silly questions when it comes to delicious salmon!
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Frozen salmon is a lifesaver when you don’t have fresh on hand. Just make sure you thaw it properly. The best way is to put it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a rush, you can thaw it in a sealed bag in cold water, but keep an eye on it! Don’t use hot water, okay? That’ll mess with the texture.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
Okay, so there are a couple of ways to tell. The easiest is to use a fork and gently flake the salmon. If it flakes easily, it’s done! You can also use a meat thermometer – it should reach an internal temperature of 140°F. But honestly, I usually just go by the fork test. Works every time!
Can I make this ahead of time?
You bet! You can totally prep some of the steps in advance. The garlic butter can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge. You can also season the salmon ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. That way, dinner is even faster. Score!
Nutritional Information for Garlic Butter Salmon
Okay, so here’s the deal on the nutrition stuff. Each serving of this Garlic Butter Salmon clocks in at around 350 calories. You’re also looking at roughly 25g of fat, 30g of protein, and just a couple of carbs. Keep in mind, though, these are just estimates! It all depends on the size of your salmon and how much butter you slather on (no judgment here! 😉).
Loved This Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe?
Yay, you made it! So, did you love this Garlic Butter Salmon as much as I do? I really, *really* hope so! If you did, I’d be super grateful if you could leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Or, even better, give the recipe a rating! And hey, if you’re feeling extra generous, share it with your friends on social media. Sharing is caring, right? Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Butter Salmon: Unforgivable 20-Minute Dinner
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Easy baked garlic butter salmon recipe. Enjoy tender, flavorful salmon in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Pat salmon dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Rub the mixture onto the salmon fillets.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 20-30 seconds until fully melted. Stir in minced garlic and lemon juice, then let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and evenly drizzle the garlic butter over the top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Optional: broil for 2 minutes for a golden, slightly crispy finish.
- Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley to garnish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
- Ensure salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
