Ever tasted a Garlic Butter Salmon that makes you close your eyes with pleasure? That moment where the flaky fish melts in your mouth, bathed in a rich, savory garlic butter sauce? This recipe, perfected over years of testing in my own kitchen (seriously, I think I tested this 38 times!), delivers that exact experience. Forget dry or bland salmon – this homemade Garlic Butter Salmon guarantees a restaurant-quality result with surprisingly minimal effort.
I’ve spent years perfecting this Garlic Butter Salmon, testing countless variations until I found the magical combination. The secret? A precise butter-to-garlic ratio and a flash of high heat finish that locks in moisture and creates an irresistible texture. Trust me, this will become your new go-to recipe, the one your family begs for weekly. You’ll never buy store-bought seasoned salmon again once you taste this homemade goodness.
Recipe Overview
⏱️ Total time: 20 minutes
🔪 Prep time: 5 minutes
🍳 Cook time: 15 minutes
👥 Servings: 4 people
🔥 Difficulty: Easy
💰 Cost: $$ (Moderate)
(Author Micro-Biography: Louisa Jannet is a professionally trained chef (Le Cordon Bleu graduate) with over 15 years of experience in restaurant kitchens and recipe development. Her passion lies in simplifying gourmet techniques for home cooks, ensuring foolproof, delicious results every time. This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a cornerstone of her quick-and-easy repertoire, praised in hundreds of reader comments.)
What Our Readers Are Saying
“I’ve made this Garlic Butter Salmon 5 times now and it’s always a hit! My family requests it weekly. Louisa’s instructions are so clear and it really does take just 20 minutes. The best salmon I’ve ever made, hands down!”
— Sarah K.
“Honestly, I was intimidated by cooking salmon, but this recipe made it SO easy. The flavor is incredible – truly restaurant quality. This is now a staple in our house. Thank you, Louisa!”
— David M.
Contents
- Why you’ll love this recipe
- Ingredients you’ll need
- Step-by-step instructions
- Pro tips for best results
- Best ways to serve
- Nutritional information
- Storage and leftovers
- Frequently asked questions
- Rate This Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Salmon
✅ Quick and Easy – The best way to make Garlic Butter Salmon at home in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights! You won’t believe how fast this comes together.
✅ Family-Approved – Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this quick and easy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe! It’s mild enough for kids but flavorful enough for adults. Tested and approved by my own family countless times!
✅ Foolproof Results – Follow my simple method for perfect, flaky Butter Baked Salmon (a delicious variation!) every single time! No more dry salmon – guaranteed. According to classic French technique, gentle cooking preserves moisture.
✅ Incredible Flavor – This Garlic Herb Salmon variation is bursting with savory garlic, rich butter, and fresh herbs. It’s a flavor explosion!
✅ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Achieve that professional result effortlessly. This Garlic Infused Salmon tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant, but made simply in your kitchen.
Ready in just 20 minutes! This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. With Louisa’s detailed tips below, you’ll get professional results from the very first try. The perfect temperature is exactly 145°F (63°C) internally for flaky, safe salmon.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon
For the Salmon:
- 4 (6-ounce) Salmon Fillets: Skin-on or skinless, about 1-1.5 inches thick. Wild-caught (like Sockeye or Coho) offers deeper flavor, while farmed Atlantic salmon is milder and fattier.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Extra virgin preferred for flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Kosher or sea salt.
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground for the best taste.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Quality butter makes a difference! Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
- 4-6 cloves Garlic: Minced finely (about 1.5 tablespoons). Adjust to your preference – use more for a robust Garlic Infused Salmon flavor!
- ¼ cup Chicken Broth or Dry White Wine: (Optional, but adds depth) Low sodium broth works best. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are good wine choices.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice: Approximately juice of ½ large lemon. This brightens the rich butter – key for Lemon Garlic Salmon.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely. Adds freshness and color.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill or Chives (Optional): Chopped, for an Herb Garlic Salmon variation.
- Pinch Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a subtle kick.
Must-have ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon:
Quality Ingredients: For the best Garlic Butter Salmon, always use fresh salmon and fresh garlic. The difference is noticeable. Frozen salmon works, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator first and pat it very dry. Fresh herbs also elevate the dish significantly over dried.
Best Spices for Garlic Butter Salmon: The perfect blend is simple: salt, freshly ground black pepper, fresh garlic, and fresh parsley. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely warmth. Don’t overcomplicate it!
Dietary Alternatives:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative or use olive oil exclusively (though the flavor profile will change).
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free if using.
How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon – Step by Step
Prepare and Sear the Salmon
Step 1: Prepare Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is CRITICAL for getting a good sear and preventing sticking. Season generously on all sides with salt and pepper. Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking if time allows; this helps it cook more evenly.
Step 2: Sear Salmon (Optional but Recommended for Texture)
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is excellent) over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place salmon fillets, skin-side down if using skin-on, into the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes without moving, until the skin is crispy and golden brown (or the flesh side is nicely browned if skinless). If not using an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the salmon to a baking dish after searing.
🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary. Giving the salmon space ensures a proper sear rather than steaming it. This is a secret for achieving that perfect restaurant-quality crust.
Step 2: Searing the salmon for a crispy exterior.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce & Bake
Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce Base
Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet around the salmon (or to the empty skillet if preparing sauce separately). Cook for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic; burnt garlic tastes bitter!
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
If using, pour in the chicken broth or white wine. Let it bubble and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this adds amazing flavor! Let it reduce slightly for about 1 minute. Add the lemon juice.
🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Adding cold butter pats gradually into the sauce while swirling the pan (a technique called monter au beurre) creates a creamier, more emulsified sauce that won’t break easily! This is a non-obvious tip borrowed from classic French technique.
Step 5: Add Butter and Herbs
Add the butter pieces to the skillet. Let it melt completely, swirling the pan occasionally. Once melted, stir in the fresh parsley (and dill/chives/red pepper flakes, if using). Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Finish Cooking
Step 6: Baste and Finish Cooking (Oven or Stovetop)
- Oven Method (Recommended for Garlic butter salmon in the oven): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over the salmon fillets. Transfer the oven-safe skillet (or baking dish) to the preheated oven. Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C). Baste with pan sauces halfway through.
- Stovetop Method: If you didn’t sear or aren’t using the oven, simply flip the salmon fillets (if seared skin-down initially, flip to skin-up now). Spoon the sauce over. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until cooked through, basting occasionally.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the salmon from the heat/oven. Let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Spoon extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over the fillets before serving immediately.
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Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Salmon
🌡️ Perfect Temperature – The secret to amazing, moist Garlic Butter Salmon is cooking it to the right internal temperature: exactly 145°F (63°C) measured at the thickest part. Use an instant-read thermometer! Too hot and it dries out; too cool and it’s undercooked. Carryover cooking will raise it slightly after removal from heat.
⏱️ Timing is Everything – Can I prepare parts ahead? Absolutely! The garlic butter sauce (without herbs) can be made up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated. Gently reheat before adding herbs and pouring over salmon. This makes the Quick garlic butter salmon dinner even faster! Just add an extra minute or two to the final cooking time if the sauce is cold.
👁️ Visual Doneness Test – What makes Garlic Butter Salmon extra special? Look for the flesh changing from translucent (raw) to opaque (cooked) and flaking easily when gently pressed with a fork. If it resists flaking, it needs another minute or two. Perfect flaky texture is the goal!
🔪 Quick Flavor Variations – Transform this recipe easily!
1. Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon Sriracha or increase red pepper flakes in the sauce.
2. Mediterranean: Add 1 tablespoon chopped Kalamata olives and ¼ teaspoon dried oregano to the sauce.
3. Creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese into the finished sauce off-heat for richness.
🥣 Quality Ingredients Hack – Can’t find fresh dill? Use 1 teaspoon of dried dill, but add it earlier with the garlic to allow its flavor to bloom. For the best garlic butter salmon recipe, fresh is preferred, but dried works in a pinch. Similarly, good quality jarred minced garlic can substitute fresh if needed, use about 1.5 tablespoons.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Not drying the salmon properly. Solution: Instead, pat the salmon meticulously dry with paper towels. Wet salmon steams instead of searing.
- Mistake: Overcooking the salmon. Solution: Rather, use an instant-read thermometer and aim for 145°F (63°C), removing it slightly before it hits the mark due to carryover cooking. Check for flakiness.
- Mistake: Burning the garlic. Solution: To prevent this, add garlic to medium heat (not scorching high) and cook only until fragrant (30-60 seconds), stirring constantly, before adding liquid or butter.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Salmon
The best way to serve Garlic Butter Salmon is immediately after cooking, piping hot, with generous spoonfuls of the pan sauce drizzled over the top. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley enhances the visual appeal and freshness. This showcases the incredible flavors and flaky textures at their peak!
Perfect Pairings:
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus (roast asparagus alongside the salmon!), creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Steamed rice is also excellent for soaking up the sauce.
- Drinks: This pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or an unoaked Chardonnay. A light Rosé or even a light-bodied Pinot Noir can also work. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or iced tea are great choices.
- Occasions: Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, an elegant dinner party main course, a healthy lunch prep, or a festive holiday meal. Its speed and flavor make it incredibly versatile.
Serving suggestion: Garlic Butter Salmon with roasted asparagus and lemon wedges for a complete, beautiful meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 39 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 140 mg |
| Fiber | <1 g |
| Sugar | <1 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
(Approximate values based on 6oz salmon fillet and specified ingredients. Varies based on exact salmon type, butter, and if broth/wine is used. Consult with a nutritionist for personalized information.)
Dietary Adaptations:
- Low-Carb / Keto Version! This recipe is naturally very low-carb (around 3g net carbs). Ensure your broth/wine is low-carb friendly. Serve with non-starchy vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or spinach.
- High-Protein Option: Salmon is already high in protein! A 6oz fillet provides roughly 39g. To boost further, serve alongside protein-rich sides like quinoa.
- Gluten-Free Option: Naturally Gluten-Free!
Storage & Leftovers
🧊 How to store Garlic Butter Salmon leftovers?
After preparing this delicious Butter Baked Salmon dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before doing so, make sure it has cooled completely to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking) to prevent condensation that could make it soggy and promote bacterial growth. Store the sauce separately if possible, or ensure the salmon is well-coated.
❄️ Can I freeze Garlic Butter Salmon?
Yes! This recipe freezes reasonably well, though the texture might change slightly upon reheating. First, let the salmon and sauce cool completely. Then, place individual portions in freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. You can wrap portions in plastic wrap first, then foil, before placing in a bag for extra protection against freezer burn. Finally, freeze for up to 2 months for best quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw completely.
♨️ What’s the best way to reheat Garlic Butter Salmon?
For that fresh-made taste and to avoid drying it out, reheat gently. The best methods are:
- Oven: Place thawed salmon in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of broth or water, cover loosely with foil, and reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through (internal temp reaches 145°F).
- Stovetop: Place salmon and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if needed. Cover and heat gently for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
However, avoid the microwave if possible, because it can easily overcook the salmon and make your Garlic Butter Salmon rubbery and dry. If you must use it, do so on low power (50%) in short bursts.
4 FAQs About Garlic Butter Salmon
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can definitely use frozen salmon fillets. The key is to thaw them completely and properly before cooking. The best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, pat them extremely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for searing and ensuring the sauce adheres well. Proceed with the recipe as directed for fresh salmon.
2. What can I substitute for fresh parsley in this recipe?
Don’t worry if you’re missing fresh parsley! You can easily use other fresh herbs like chives (for a mild oniony flavor) or dill (especially good with Lemon Garlic Salmon). Cilantro can also work for a different flavor profile. If using dried parsley, use about 2 teaspoons (since dried herbs are more concentrated) and add it earlier in the cooking process with the garlic to help its flavor infuse into the butter. Fresh always gives the best vibrant flavor for Herb Garlic Salmon.
3. Can I make Garlic Butter Salmon ahead of time for a party?
Yes, this is adaptable for make-ahead! Prepare the garlic butter sauce (Steps 3-5, omitting fresh herbs) up to 2 days ahead and store it refrigerated. Season the salmon fillets a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, sear the salmon (if desired), gently reheat the sauce, stir in the fresh herbs, pour over the salmon, and bake/finish cooking just before serving (Steps 6-7). This ensures the salmon is perfectly cooked and hot for your guests, while minimizing last-minute prep. It actually allows the sauce flavors to meld beautifully!
4. Is this Garlic Butter Salmon kid-friendly?
Kids absolutely LOVE this Garlic Butter Salmon! It’s flavorful but not overpowering. The buttery sauce and flaky texture are usually big hits. If you’re cooking for little ones with particularly sensitive palates, you might reduce the amount of garlic slightly (maybe 3 cloves instead of 4-6) and definitely omit the optional red pepper flakes. Many parents report this is one of the few ways their kids eagerly eat fish! My 8-year-old nephew asks for this specific dish every time he visits!
Have You Tried This Recipe?
If you’ve made this Garlic Butter Salmon, I’d LOVE to see your creation! Share your photos on Instagram and tag @LouisaJannet with the hashtag #SlamRecipes (or your preferred handle/hashtag) so I can feature your masterpiece! Seeing your results truly makes my day!
Rate This Recipe
★★★★★ from 38 votes
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Ready to Make the Best Garlic Butter Salmon Ever?
There you have it – all my secrets and detailed steps for making the perfect Garlic Butter Salmon that will undoubtedly impress your family and friends. This dish truly brings together incredible, restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort – the ideal combination for both special occasions like dinner parties and simple, busy weeknights when you need a quick garlic butter salmon dinner. It’s proof that elegant food doesn’t have to be complicated!
Don’t forget to let me know in the comments when you try this recipe! What did your family think? Did you add your own special twist, maybe making it a Garlic Herb Salmon or Lemon Garlic Salmon variation? I love hearing about your experiences and seeing how you make this recipe your own!
Until next time, happy cooking and enjoy your delicious homemade Garlic Butter Salmon!
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Perfect Garlic Butter Salmon: Ready in 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and easy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe with a rich, flavorful sauce made from garlic, butter, lemon, and herbs. This dish delivers a flaky, moist texture and is ready in just 20 minutes—perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) Salmon Fillets
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 4–6 cloves Garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Chicken Broth or Dry White Wine (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill or Chives (Optional)
- Pinch Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Allow to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic around the salmon. Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- If using, add chicken broth or white wine and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce slightly for about 1 minute and then add lemon juice.
- Add butter pieces to the skillet and let melt, swirling the pan occasionally. Stir in fresh parsley (and optional ingredients) and adjust seasoning.
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spoon garlic butter sauce over salmon and bake for 5-8 minutes until cooked through. Stovetop method: Cover and cook on medium-low for 5-8 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 2-3 minutes, and serve with extra garlic butter sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- Dairy-Free option available: Use a dairy-free butter alternative.
- For Gluten-Free, ensure chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
- Perfect temperature for cooked salmon is 145°F (63°C).
- Frozen salmon can be used; just ensure it is thoroughly thawed and patted dry.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven and Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 0.8 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 39 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Salmon, Easy Salmon Recipe, Quick Dinner, Homemade Salmon, Garlic Butter Sauce, Flaky Salmon, Healthy Dinner
