easy oven baked salmon

Prep Time: 15 minutes   |   Cook Time: 25 minutes   |   Total Time: 40 minutes   |   Servings: 4

Introduction

Garlic butter salmon recipe lovers will appreciate this easy sheet-pan dinner that delivers tender, flaky fish with crispy roasted potatoes and vibrant broccoli. The salmon is brushed with a rich garlic butter mixture that melts into the fillets as they bake, creating a glossy, flavorful finish. Meanwhile, the potatoes roast until golden and crisp, and the broccoli turns perfectly tender with lightly charred edges. This balanced meal is ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for guests. For best results, avoid overbaking the salmon—remove it as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each / 170 g each)
• 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes, halved (700 g)
• 3 cups broccoli florets (300 g)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml), divided
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (56 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt (6 g), divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)
• Lemon slices for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roast the potatoes first: Toss halved potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, half the salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer and roast for 15 minutes.
3. Add broccoli: Remove the tray, add broccoli florets, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes until potatoes begin to crisp and broccoli turns tender.
4. Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. The mixture should smell fragrant and fresh.
5. Add the salmon: Push vegetables slightly aside and place salmon fillets on the tray. Brush generously with garlic butter and sprinkle with remaining salt.
6. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium.
7. Serve: Spoon extra garlic butter from the pan over the salmon. Serve warm with roasted potatoes, broccoli, and fresh lemon slices.

FAQs

Q1: How do I know when salmon is done?
The flesh should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.

Q2: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning for best texture.

Q3: Can I prepare garlic butter salmon recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables and garlic butter in advance. Bake the salmon fresh for the best flavor and texture.

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