Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Salmon is our favorite fish, so we enjoy it regularly. My baked lemon dijon salmon and broiled salmon have been my go-to recipes for years, but this Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe has quickly taken the number 1 spot in the dinner rotation!

This recipe is extra special because it replicates the mouthwatering melt in your mouth salmon dishes that I’ve enjoyed in restaurants for years.

I never understood how the salmon in restaurants turned out so tender until I asked a server one day. Imagine my surprise when I learned that butter was the magic ingredient that made all the difference.

The butter acts as a barrier from the heat to keep the salmon nice and moist while it cooks. It also adds richness, flavor and the fact that it pairs beautifully with garlic, fresh dill and lemon doesn’t hurt either.

This is a restaurant quality meal that takes minutes to prep and it’s guaranteed to wow your family or your guests. 🙂

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Lemon garlic butter salmon is melt in your mouth tender and packed with flavor.
• It takes just 10 minutes of prep and it cooks up in 15 minutes.
• It’s high protein, low carb and gluten-free so it’s perfect for special diets.
• This recipe is extremely versatile and perfect with almost anything you’re serving.

Recipe ingredients

• Salmon fillets. For best results, use wild caught salmon for the best flavor and health benefits. Cut the salmon into even fillets, or cook one large fillet.
• Butter. Adds richness to the dish and keeps the salmon moist as it bakes. Use unsalted butter to control the amount of sodium.
• Garlic. Adds savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the butter. Use freshly minced garlic for maximum flavor.
• Dill. Freshly chopped dill adds herbaceous flavor that really makes this recipe shine. Sub with your favorite fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
• Lemon. Adds bright flavor that balances the richness of the butter.

See the recipe card below for the full list of ingredients and quantities.

How to make salmon with lemon garlic butter

This salmon with lemon garlic butter recipe is extremely easy to prepare. Prep time is about 5 minutes, and it cooks up in about 15 minutes.

Pro tip: Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon. Cooking times will run as follows: 1/2″ thick 10-12 minutes; 1″ thick 12-15 minutes; 1″ or more 15-18 minutes.

See the recipe card below for full instructions.

1. Melt the butter in a small bowl in the microwave, then stir in the garlic and dill until combined.
2. Blot the salmon dry, season with salt and pepper, then place on a rimmed baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, then top with lemon slices.
4. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the salmon fillet registers 145 degrees.

Recipe FAQs

Serving suggestions

There are so many delicious ways to serve this garlic butter baked salmon! Below are some of my favorites:

• Serve with a side of yukon gold mashed potatoes or almond rice pilaf for a family friendly meal.
• It makes a great summer meal served alongside grilled zucchini corn salad or lemon orzo pasta salad.
• It’s the perfect low carb dinner served with oven roasted asparagus or air fryer broccoli. It’s also great paired with my spring mix salad recipe or butter lettuce salad.

Recipe notes

• Pro tip: Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon. Cooking times will run as follows: 1/2″ thick 10-12 minutes; 1″ thick 12-15 minutes; 1″ or more 15-18 minutes.
• This recipe works well with one large 1 1/2 – 2 lb. salmon fillet as well!
• Baking the salmon uncovered results in a slightly crisp exterior. If you prefer salmon with a softer texture, bake it covered with a lid or foil.
• No fresh herbs? Sub with 1 teaspoon of your favorite dried herbs.
• Store leftover garlic butter baked salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.