Are you looking for a healthy family dinner? Oven-baked salmon is easy to make! Just season with simple ingredients and bake in the oven at a moderate temperature to cook gently.
If you’re a fan of healthy, delicious meals, give my spinach-stuffed salmon recipe a try!
Table of Contents
An easy, healthy seafood dinner is just minutes away! This baked salmon recipe is one of my favorites when looking for a nutritious entree. This type of fish is packed with nutrition like protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, so I try to incorporate it into my meal rotation at least once a week. It’s a stunning sheet-pan dish perfect for sharing.
I keep the fillet whole to make preparation a breeze, with the skin intact. Alternatively, you can slice it into individual salmon fillets. Baking ensures a consistent heated environment that prevents the dreaded dried-out texture. The fish gently cooks on a tray with melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and slices of lemon. Before serving, a quick broil helps brown the surface to enhance the taste and texture.
Salmon selection
There are many types of salmon to choose from at the market. It’s genuinely the chef’s choice. However, I prefer Scottish, Atlantic, or King salmon for the most buttery and rich taste. Wild-caught salmon have a deeper red color and a more lean texture. It’s a healthier option but will taste a bit drier.
Check for bones
Nobody likes a surprise bone in their meal. Before seasoning, check for any long white pin bones running down the center of the fillet. I use needle-nose pliers or tweezers to pull them out. Pluck them in the same direction the bone is running to prevent the flesh from tearing.
Keep whole or slice
Large salmon fillets are sold with the center bone removed. For a stunning presentation with minimal work, you can keep it whole or cut them into smaller fillets for individual portions, about 4 to 6 ounces in weight. The smaller pieces may cook quicker since more sides are exposed to the heat, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
Should you remove the skin?
This recipe offers a lot of versatility in preparation. To keep things quick and easy, I leave the skin on if it hasn’t already been trimmed off at the store. You can remove the salmon skin in just minutes if desired. It’s a simple technique to master.
As the proteins in the fish cook during baking, it will be easy to separate the skin side later using a spatula. I don’t eat the skin because it will be chewy and soft, unlike a pan-seared salmon that is delightfully crispy.
Customize the seasonings
- Fat: Extra-virgin olive oil is a good swap for melted butter. Browned butter adds a nutty butterscotch taste. Use Ghee if you want to be free of milk solids.
- Spices: Dried onion or garlic powder and a concentrated earthy allium flavor. A small amount of smoked or sweet paprika for a red hue.
- Heat: Dried chili powder or chipotle adds a hint of sizzling spice.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano. Sprinkle on Italian seasonings or Herbs de Provence with lavender and marjoram for a quick herb blend. Place whole sprigs on top to infuse aromatics while baking.
- Sauce: Slather an herbaceous pesto on top. Add some homemade barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy taste. Serve with hollandaise sauce on the side for a luxurious brunch dish.
How to bake salmon
This method is fantastic because it has minimal clean-up! Just grab a rimmed baking sheet and line it with foil. Grease the pan with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the salmon in the center, then season evenly with melted butter, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
I like adding lemon wedges because the juices will cook as they bake, mellowing in acidity and tartness. Squeeze some lemon juice on top for a simple and delicious sauce. Now bake until the fish reaches medium-rare doneness, around 125º (52ºC). Then a quick 3 to 4-minute broil will complete the cooking process and deepen the flavor on the surface with additional browning.
Baking temperature and time
Bake salmon in the oven at 375ºF (191ºC) until it reaches 125ºF (52ºC) for a medium-rare texture. Using a moderate temperature will ensure the flesh stays moist. Salmon does not experience carryover cooking like red meat because it does not hold heat well. The fish will continue to cook once broiled to about medium doneness.
For a 1 ½ pound salmon, you need about 10 to 12 minutes for medium-rare doneness. The cooking time depends on the fish’s thickness. Note that the tail end cooks faster than the thicker body portion. Generally, it takes about 5 minutes for every half-inch thickness. For example, for a 1-inch thick fillet, you need at least 10 minutes of cooking time.
Finish with a quick broil
To add flavor to the surface, broil the salmon for 3 to 4 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on the fish after the first 2 minutes of broiling. Make sure the garlic browns but doesn’t burn. This step is optional but deepens the flavors with roasted notes. If you skip broiling, add a few more minutes of baking time for medium-cooked doneness.
Checking for doneness
Use a fork to gently separate a few layers of flesh in the thickest part to test for doneness. It should flake easily with the fork. The color should be opaque unless you like it medium-rare, and it will be a little more glossy in the center.
If you have an instant-read thermometer, insert the probe in the thickest part of the salmon. If you like a medium-rare center, target 125ºF (52ºC). For medium and fully opaque flesh, target 140º (60ºC). Above 145ºF (63ºC), the fish will taste dry.
Serve this with
- Steamed broccoli
- Sauteed green beans
- Roasted brussels sprouts
- Steamed rice
- Roasted potatoes
- Green beans and mushrooms
Frequently asked questions
Bake at 375ºF (191ºC) to gently cook the fish, then briefly broil to finish cooking and brown the surface.
At 375ºF (191ºC), about 10 to 12 minutes for a 1 ½ pound whole fillet for medium-rare doneness. Smaller portions will cook faster. You can cook longer for medium doneness if you skip the broiling step. To estimate based on thickness, factor about 5 minutes of cook time for every half-inch thickness.
The flesh should go from translucent orange to opaque pink. It should flake easily with a fork in the center. The internal temperature will be 125 to 140ºF (52 to 60ºC) in the thickest part.
The skin contains the highest amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which have heart health benefits. However, it’s easier to eat when pan-seared and crispy, as baked salmon skin will be rubbery and harder to chew.
Recipe Science
Benefits of two heat sources
Salmon cooks very quickly as its flesh is high in moisture and fat. Within minutes, the texture can rapidly change. To prevent it from drying out, cook at a moderate temperature to just about medium-rare. Then for the last few minutes, adjust the heating element to broil and brown the surface.
Baked Salmon
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pound salmon fillet
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 8 lemon wedges
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped dill
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set the oven rack to the center position—Preheat to 375ºF (191ºC). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly grease with vegetable oil or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Fillet – Place the salmon on the sheet, skin-side down (if still intact). Brush half of the melted butter over the fillet. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle the remaining butter on top, then add the minced garlic. Place lemon wedges around the sides.
- Bake the Salmon – Bake until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 125ºF (52ºC), about 12 minutes.
- Broil the Salmon – Change the oven setting to broil on high. Cook until the surface is a light golden color and the garlic just begins to brown, 3 to 4 minutes.
- To Serve – Carefully remove and discard the skin, then transfer the fillet to a serving platter. Garnish with parsley and dill, and serve with roasted lemon wedges.
Recipe Video
Equipment
Notes
- Make it Whole30: Ghee or extra-virgin olive oil can be substituted for butter. Substitute kosher salt for sea salt.
- Larger Salmon: Adjust cooking time as needed until the 125ºF (52ºC) internal temperature is reached.
- Individual Fillets: Cut into 4 to 6-ounce pieces. Bake according to recipe directions. Check for doneness a few minutes earlier to prevent overcooking.
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: Cover and reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warm. Bake on a foil-lined sheet pan at 275ºF (175ºC) until warm, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000-calorie diet. All nutritional information is based on estimated third-party calculations. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.
Brigit says
Best salmon ever and so easy to make. My husband kept saying, the salmon is so good, he ate 2 plates of it.
I’m new to your site and I already tried a few of your recipes, Italian meat balls, chicken piccata and the meat loaf all of which are 5 * .
Thank for your wonderful recipes and the way you are explaining those recipes, it’s making me a more confident and happy cook.
Jessica Gavin says
You are a rockstar, Brigit!
Kathy says
This is the only way I make salmon. my brother-in-law came for dinner last week. He said he really dosen’t care for salmon, but loved it.
Jessica Gavin says
Great to hear that your family enjoyed the salmon recipe!
Dawn says
I really enjoyed this recipe! Not only was it so flavorful and fresh tasting it was really simple and came together so quickly. I have no excuses for ordering out on busy nights with recipes like this! ?
Jessica Gavin says
Great job, Dawn!
naima says
Hello – does this salmon require marination?
Jessica Gavin says
No, you do not have to marinate the salmon before baking.
Valerie C. says
Yet again Jessica, you’ve hit it out of the park! Dinner was an absolute success. I paired the salmon with roasted broccoli and Butter & Garlic Uncle Ben’s rice. There were no leftovers! My fillet was on the thicker side so it took a few minutes longer than stated to reach 125 degrees before broiling but I expected that. My roommate is a professional cook and even he was raving about how good the salmon looked, smelled and tasted. Thanks again Jessica!
Jessica Gavin says
Thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the baked salmon! Love the side dishes you paired with it. What a compliment, especially since your roommate is a chef!
Alba Claire says
I made this Salmon recipe the other night and it was delicious! I used two separate salmon strips instead of a whole filet since it was just for two. I really enjoy your recipes since they are easy to follow and don’t require any unusual ingredients. And, they are healthy!
Jessica Gavin says
Great job, Alba! I love that you adjusted the portions for two. Happy cooking!
Bryan Tsunoda says
Jessica, I made this recipe this week and used a beautiful filet of Scottish Salmon. I made one almost fatal mistake. I used parchment paper instead of foil. When I opened the oven with the broiler on, the parchment paper was on fire. Fortunately, the salmon was fine. Loved the fresh herbs on top, the fish was super moist inside and I really liked the crisp exterior. Thank you – I will keep this recipe!
Jessica Gavin says
Oh no! I’m glad that the salmon was saved and you are safe!
Margo says
Such an easy and great recipe! I’ve made it twice this week already. Fresh ingredients really make a difference over the bottled seasonings, but both versions were great. Definitely adding this to the dinner rotation. Thanks for this recipe!
Jessica Gavin says
You’re amazing! Thank you for making the salmon recipe, twice!
bepmina says
Your website is amazing…your pictures and recipes are very inspiring. Thanks for sharing!
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you so much for the kind complement!
Tom says
Made this last night with some garlic mashed potatoes, and it was delicious! This is my salmon recipe from now on, and I’m looking forward to devouring the leftovers tonight.
Jessica Gavin says
Whoo-hoo! So happy to hear that you enjoyed the salmon, Tom. The mashed potatoes sound like a lovely pairing.
Grace says
Best salmon I have ever made! My family loved it. I have struggled making salmon and was losing the will to try. Thank you for this simple but delicious recipe.
Jessica Gavin says
Great job, Grace! I’m glad that you didn’t give up on making the salmon and enjoyed the recipe.
Diana Wilson says
My family loves this recipe. This is such an easy meal and tasty as well.The directions are easy to follow. This is on a regular rotation in our house.
Jessica Gavin says
Love that the entire family is enjoying the salmon dinner!
Maggie Angelo says
Jessica,
Thank you for another easy to follow, yummy recipe! Your recipes always have easy to find ingredients ( most of them already in my pantry) and are major crowd pleaser creations. Your passion for cooking and sharing of your knowledge is evident, and so much appreciated. I consistently receive rave reviews from my family and friends!
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you SO much, Maggie, your kind comment truly made my day. I’m happy to hear that you are wowing your loved ones with your cooking. Keep it up!
BuncheBaker says
Thank you ever so much, this was the easiest recipe EVER > even I couldn’t mess it up > it is so very moist, thank you kindly Jessica :*
Jessica Gavin says
Great job my friend!
Terri says
Loved this recipe. The salmon was so moist and delicious! I loved the roasted lemons. What a great idea! ?
Jessica Gavin says
Thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the salmon, Terri!
Brad says
Hi Jessica,
For a novice like myself you made this incredibly easy and, it was incredibly delicious. I looked at ten different sites with recipes and none made it a easy or, as complete in terms of instructions. The video was a very nice touch as well. Thank you!
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you for your feedback Brad, I’m happy to hear that you found the recipe easy to prepare!
Brittany says
Thank you so much. It turned out great. It was my first time making salmon.
Bobby says
Thank you for your Baked Salmon recipe! I have never cooked a salmon fillet until today and thanks to your clear instructions I was able to successfully pull it off! It turned out perfectly cooked and tasty! Mmmmmmmmm! I will be cooking this more thanks to you! I will be checking out many more of your delicious recipes.
Jessica Gavin says
Great job Bobby! So thrilled to hear that you have the confidence to cook more often and trying new ingredients.
Kristen Vang says
My son cooking salmon for his diets this week and he needed help so I use this bake salmon recipe for him and it turns out great, he loves it and appreciate mom for helping him
Jessica Gavin says
That’s so great that you are cooking together with your family!
T says
Made this with roasted zucchini and tziki sauce on the side. I love tziki sauce on many things, but on salmon it is awesome! My husband loved it and so did I!
Laura says
That’s a great idea! I’m a fan of a tangy tater sauce but Tziki sounds amazing and I just happen to have some on hand…. making this salmon and a bit of halibut tonight!
Abbie says
Made this last night and it was delicious. It did not take much time at all and the salmon was the perfect texture. I will be making this again!
Shal says
This was delicious!! I have zero experience cooking with fish. This was so easy. Thanks for your recipe.
Connie says
I just finished making this salmon. It was one of the best dishes I’ve ever made!!! So simple to make. I was surprised it was so delicious!!!! I plan to make it for my parents. The presentation is also elegant!!! Thanks Jessica!
Ardean P Armitage says
Delicious and easy. No lemons, so sprinkled with lemon juice before and after cooking. Butter and garlic combination added flavor without overpowering the salmon. Hubby loved. A good recipe for those who think they don’t like salmon. SIL makes recipes with special rubs which are delicious, I need my own signature recipe…this is it.
Pete says
Thanks for the simple and delicious recipe for us novices!
Shirl says
Sounds so good going to make it tonite for dinner. Ty
Nicole C says
I needed a quick recipe to make the piece of salmon that was left from a different recipe and this was perfect! I’m not a big fan of foods cooked with lemon, though I love lemons ??♀️. Mom asked for lemon and herbs. Two recipe books later, I found this one online. My mom enjoyed it so much and so did I. Adding this to my favorites. Thank you!
Dreighton Rosier says
Charcoal grill hot fire aluminum foil fish (salmon or rainbow or steelhead)
Spice as desired, I might use any of allspice or garlic with any Creole or Cajun for example along with salt and white or black pepper, olive oil on the foil then flesh side down.
Soak wood chips of choice and roast over hot part of fire about 12 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness, I prefer a bit under cooked, there will be some caramelization on the tail and other thin places which is all the better.
Off the grill the skin lifts off easily and can be eaten as is if desired.
Lay a platter over the fish then flip it for an easy serve. Do be careful to not lose any of the juices.
Essentially your baked fish but the heat is out of the kitchen with any number of variations easily done.
Jessica Gavin says
Wow that sounds amazing Dreighton!
Nancy Kruse says
Can you use extra virgin olive oil instead of butter?
Jessica Gavin says
Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter.
Susan says
During the summer when our college-aged kids are home we have a cooking rotation. Well, my daughter made this tonight for our family. It was wonderful! Perfectly cooked and delicious! Love the roasted lemons! Thank you for a great recipe. Five Stars!
Fior Jones says
This is my very first time giving a review, but i have to say this one is well deserved!!! So delicious and light LOVE IT!!!!
Carol says
This was a very easy, tasty dinner. I will definitely make it again!
farukh farooqi says
Can one use lime instead of lemons?
Jessica Gavin says
You could use limes, they will just give a different type of citrus flavor.
Kelli says
Hi! We LOVE this recipe and use it at least once a week. The salmon is very juicy and not dried out. We’ve been using fresh salmon but was wondering about frozen. What would need to be changed in the recipe for frozen salmon?
Thank you!
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you for making the recipe, Kelli! I would defrost the salmon before baking. That way the water from the ice does not defrost the seasonings and you get a nice browned surface. You can defrost 1-2 days ahead of time. Or if it’s in a tightly sealed package, run cool water over, or submerge and change out the water until defrosted. Pat try the salmon before adding the seasoning. Let me know how it goes!
Cherry says
Wow. Looks delish. I’m trying to avoid the use of aluminium foil in my kitchen. Can u suggest another alternative? Or can I bake the salmon in a Corning Ware casserole?
Jessica Gavin says
Hi Cherry- For the least mess use some parchment paper. Otherwise you can use a casserole dish, but make sure to grease the bottom of the pan so that the skin doesn’t stick too bad to the bottom. You can also put some herbs like thyme sprigs on the bottom to help reduce sticking.
Kevin Masson says
I’ve just put a whole cleaned 6lb trout in the oven at gas mark 5. After following your guide,how long should I cook it for please? Ps. Love the idea but just hope I cook for the right time??xx
Jessica Gavin says
Hi Kevin- How did the cooking go? It is usually 10 minutes for 1 inch of thickness, but since you have a whole trout I would predict it took longer.
Patty says
Ms Gavin
Your recipe for baked salmon was right on. I did not have parsley so I used cilantro. But the cilantro is not what made it…it was the garlic, lemmon and dill. Very good!
Christine says
I almost always do salmon on Mondays and so this was a perfect recipe to try something new to add to my salmon recipes! It was so flavorful and tender and easy to make. Thank you!
Anna Leah says
This dish is delicious and I often bake salmon already so the addition of the minced garlic was really nice (and I did not burn it!). We eat it skin and all. Served it with a carrots and dill recipe and not a morsel was left behind. I appreciate the cooking temperature tips.
Jessica Gavin says
High five on not burning the garlic! So happy to hear you guys enjoyed the recipes. The sides sound like a perfect combo!
Judy says
Looks absolutely delicious. I do love salmon. Sounds like you are having a wonderful time. Lovely that you can see the world and experience other cultures. Thank you for all you share and for ‘taking me along with you’ through that.
Jessica Gavin says
You must visit Denmark Judy, you would have an incredible time!
Sue says
Trying your recipe tonite it looks like it’s the best recipe out there! Thank you for sharing!
Lisa simpson says
Delish and easy salmon. I added capers.