If you’re craving a dish that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Oven Baked Salmon Recipe. This meal features tender, juicy salmon fillets baked to perfection with an irresistible blend of garlic, paprika, and Italian seasonings, all kissed by melted butter. Not only does it come together quickly, but this dish also bursts with flavor and makes for a beautiful centerpiece at any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this Oven Baked Salmon Recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create a dish with balanced flavor, lovely texture, and inviting color. Each element, from the buttery tones to the smoky paprika, plays a crucial role in making this salmon unforgettable.
- Salmon fillet (2 pounds, skin-on): The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and a moist, tender bite with crispy skin when baked properly.
- Melted butter or olive oil (3 tablespoons): Adds silkiness and depth, helping the seasonings stick while keeping the salmon moist.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): For a punch of savory aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances savory spices with a subtle touch of sweetness, enhancing caramelization on the surface.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant herb mix that adds an earthy, fresh dimension to the salmon.
- Ground paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a smoky warmth and vibrant color that makes the salmon look as good as it tastes.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Supplements the fresh garlic with an extra layer of garlicky goodness.
- Salt (¾ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning, it brightens and enhances all the flavors.
- Ground black pepper (to taste): Adds subtle heat and complexity that rounds out the seasoning perfectly.
How to Make Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lay out a large piece of foil on a rimmed baking sheet—the foil will help keep all those delicious juices contained while the salmon bakes. Place the salmon fillet skin side down with the pink flesh facing up. Then, gently crimp the edges of the foil to create a little “boat” that will hold seasonings and melted butter without spilling.
Step 2: Season and Butter Your Salmon
Mix your melted butter (or olive oil if you prefer) with the minced garlic for a rich, fragrant base. Brush half of this garlic butter all over the salmon’s surface, coating it generously. Next, combine brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered salmon. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter on top to lock in flavor and help those spices stick beautifully.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop your foil boat into the oven and bake the salmon for 15 to 22 minutes. The exact time depends on how well done you prefer your fish—15 minutes will give you tender, slightly translucent salmon, while 22 minutes cooks it through fully. You can even baste the fish halfway through baking with its own juices for extra flavor and moisture. When done, let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute perfectly.
How to Serve Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can truly elevate this Oven Baked Salmon Recipe. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes. Lemon wedges are also a classic companion, offering that bright citrus kick that complements the rich fish stunningly well.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts bring texture and earthiness, while fluffy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad add comforting starch and nutty flavors. For a lighter touch, a crisp mixed green salad tossed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the salmon perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, plate your salmon on a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy risotto to nestle the fillet delicately. You can also slice the salmon into individual portions and fan them out on a platter for a family-style meal that invites sharing. Drizzle a little extra garlic butter or a balsamic glaze over the top for that wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its moist texture and savory flavors when reheated gently.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cooked salmon. Wrap the fillet tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in a freezer-safe container. It stays best for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, wrap the salmon loosely in foil and warm it in a 275°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until just warmed through. This gentle method helps preserve its flaky texture and prevents drying out, so every bite is just as delightful as when fresh.
FAQs
Can I use salmon fillets instead of a whole fillet?
Absolutely! This Oven Baked Salmon Recipe works wonderfully with individual fillets. Just adjust the baking time to about 12-15 minutes depending on the thickness of each piece.
Is it okay to use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes! Olive oil is a great alternative for a lighter version and still provides moisture and flavor. Butter gives a richer taste, but olive oil keeps the dish dairy-free and just as tasty.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If you prefer it slightly more tender, aim for around 125-130°F and allow it to rest.
Can I add other spices to this Oven Baked Salmon Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite herbs such as thyme or rosemary, or a touch of cayenne pepper for some heat. The basic seasoning mix is very flexible.
What is the best way to prevent salmon from sticking to the foil?
Make sure to either brush the foil with melted butter or use parchment paper underneath your salmon. Additionally, using skin-on salmon helps keep the flesh intact and less likely to stick.
Final Thoughts
This Oven Baked Salmon Recipe has quickly become a beloved staple in my kitchen, and I promise once you try it, it will be in yours too. It’s the perfect balance of ease, flavor, and elegance that suits both weekday dinners and special occasions. Don’t hesitate to give it a go—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy salmon!
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Oven Baked Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-22 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Oven Baked Salmon recipe delivers tender, flavorful salmon with a deliciously seasoned garlic butter glaze. Perfectly baked at 375°F, the salmon remains moist and flaky, enhanced by a blend of brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder. It’s an easy, healthy, and impressive main dish for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, serving six.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 1 (2-pound) whole salmon fillet (skin-on preferred)
Seasoning and Marinade
- 3 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay a large piece of aluminum foil onto a rimmed baking sheet. Place the whole salmon fillet skin-side down, pink side up, onto the foil. Crimp the edges of the foil to form a shallow “boat” that will hold the salmon and any cooking juices.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Brush half of this garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the salmon. In another bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Italian seasoning, ground paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over the salmon. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the top for extra moisture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the prepared salmon in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 22 minutes, depending on your desired doneness. For optimal results, baste the salmon with its own juices halfway through baking to keep it moist. When the salmon is cooked through—opaque and flaky with an internal temperature of about 125–130°F for medium or 140°F for well done—remove it from the oven.
- Rest and Serve: Let the salmon rest in the foil boat for 5 minutes after baking. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, flavorful fish. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Check internal temperature to avoid overcooking: 125-130°F for medium doneness, 140°F for well done.
- Basting halfway through cooking enhances moisture and flavor but is optional.
- Use skin-on salmon to help keep the fillet intact and moist during baking.
- Foil “boat” helps in easy cleanup and retaining flavorful juices.
- Substitute olive oil for melted butter for a dairy-free option.
