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Easy Sheet Pan Salmon in Lemon Garlic Butter

easy sheet pan salmon - featured image

This Easy Sheet Pan Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter is a quick and delicious dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. With simple ingredients like salmon, butter, garlic, and lemon, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds salmon filet (skin-on or skin-off)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 to 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ¾ teaspoon table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • Optional: 2 cups vegetables (asparagus, green beans, or broccoli), tossed in olive oil and salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the middle. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. In a small bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the microwave (about 30 seconds on high). Add minced garlic (4-5 cloves), zest of one lemon, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk together. Set aside about 2 tablespoons of this mixture for brushing after cooking.
  3. Pat the salmon filet dry with paper towels. Remove any pin bones. Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared sheet pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
  4. If adding vegetables, toss them in a bowl with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them around the salmon on the sheet pan.
  5. Brush the salmon with the lemon garlic butter mixture, reserving 2 tablespoons for later. Make sure to coat the sides as well.
  6. Roast for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. For a 1-inch thick filet, start checking at 12 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 125°F to 130°F in the thickest part.
  7. As soon as the salmon comes out of the oven, brush or spoon the reserved lemon garlic butter over the top. Let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and a few thin lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcook the salmon; use an instant-read thermometer for best results. Let the salmon come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for even cooking. Pat the salmon dry to ensure crispy edges. Fresh garlic is recommended over jarred for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: sheet pan salmon, lemon garlic butter salmon, easy salmon recipe, quick salmon dinner, healthy salmon recipe