Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Juicy, flavorful, and restaurant-quality salmon—made effortlessly at home in just 30 minutes! This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is the ultimate weeknight dinner or cozy weekend treat. The salmon is baked in a foil “pouch” with a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce that keeps it tender and moist, while a quick broil at the end gives it a gorgeous golden finish. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just starting to experiment with salmon, this recipe delivers bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and maximum wow-factor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready from prep to table in just 30 minutes.
• Juicy and flavorful: Butter, garlic, lemon, and honey infuse every bite.
• Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks on one sheet pan.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted veggies or rice.

Ingredients

• 1.5–1.75 pounds skin-on salmon fillet – Tender, flavorful, and perfect for baking.
• 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds – Adds a bright citrusy aroma and keeps salmon moist.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Creates a rich, silky sauce that enhances the salmon.
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon) – Intensifies the fresh lemon flavor.
• 2–3 tablespoons honey – Balances tangy lemon with a touch of sweetness.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced or pressed – Infuses the butter with aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances natural flavors.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds gentle heat and complexity.
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For a fresh, vibrant garnish.

How to Make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Prep Your Salmon

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place salmon skin-side down on a sheet of foil. Fold up the edges about 2 inches to create a shallow “tray” for the buttery sauce.
3. Nestle lemon slices underneath the salmon evenly.

Make the Lemon Garlic Butter

1. Melt butter in a microwave-safe cup or bowl, about 1 minute.
2. Stir in lemon juice, honey, and garlic.
3. Pour about three-quarters of the mixture over the salmon; save the rest for later.

Season and Seal

1. Sprinkle salmon with salt and black pepper.
2. Seal the foil tightly. You may need a second sheet of foil to fully enclose the salmon. For best flavor, let it marinate 10–15 minutes while foil is sealed.

Bake and Broil

1. Place the foil pack on a baking sheet. Bake for 17 minutes.
2. Remove the top layer of foil. Raise the edges to contain the juices.
3. Set oven to Hi Broil. Spoon the reserved butter over the salmon if desired.
4. Broil for 5–10 minutes until golden and slightly caramelized. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Finish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh lemon and garlic for maximum flavor.
• Don’t overcook salmon; it should flake easily but remain moist.
• Broiling adds a golden finish—watch closely as ovens vary.
• Let salmon rest 2–3 minutes after broiling to lock in juices.

Equipment Needed

• Sheet pan
• Aluminum foil
• Microwave-safe bowl or cup
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon for drizzling butter
• Oven with broil setting

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh dill or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce honey to 1 tablespoon or skip entirely.
• Garlic Lover’s: Increase garlic to 8 cloves for a bolder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or steamed rice.
• Pair with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh salad.
• Drizzle extra lemon-garlic butter over the sides for a cohesive flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use salmon fillets without skin?
A: Yes, but be gentle when handling as skinless fillets are more delicate.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can prep the butter mixture and salmon in foil in advance, but bake fresh for best flavor.

Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Keep airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Q: Can I freeze this salmon?
A: Salmon can be frozen before baking, wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Q: What if I don’t have broil?
A: Bake a few extra minutes at 375°F until golden; it won’t be as crispy on top but will still be delicious.

Conclusion

This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a home-cooked delight that’s both simple and impressive. With tender, juicy salmon and a buttery lemon-garlic glaze, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy family meals, or serving guests with minimal stress. Try it once, and it will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with herbs, spice, or serving sides to make it your own!

Enjoy the crispy edges, the rich buttery flavor, and the bright citrus notes—every bite is a little celebration of home cooking.

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