Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

If you’re craving an elegant seafood dinner that’s unfussy yet undeniably delicious, this Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is destined to become your new go-to. With flaky salmon infused by a luscious garlic-lemon butter, each bite bursts with vibrant citrus and savory richness — and everything comes together on a single pan in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of fresh, familiar ingredients to build layers of bright, buttery flavor in this Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon. Each element plays a distinct role, from juicy lemon for tang to rich butter for silky texture, creating a beautifully balanced dish.

• Salmon fillet (skin-on, 1.5 to 1.75 pounds): The star of our dish — choose a center-cut piece for even cooking, and leave the skin on to help lock in moisture and flavor.
• Lemon (1, sliced into thin rounds): Adds freshness and citrusy brightness; nestling the slices under the salmon lets both the salmon and butter absorb its essence.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Makes the sauce silky and luxurious while allowing you to control the saltiness.
• Lemon juice (3 tablespoons): Using freshly squeezed juice gives a punchy, vibrant tang that’s simply irreplaceable.
• Honey (2 to 3 tablespoons): A touch of honey balances the tart lemon and heightens the overall flavor profile with gentle sweetness.
• Garlic (5 cloves, finely minced or pressed): The garlicky kick infuses every bite; feel free to add more if you’re a garlic fan!
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every savory note of the salmon and butter sauce.
• Freshly ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just enough warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Fresh parsley (2 teaspoons, finely chopped; optional for garnish): A pop of color and fresh herbal flavor that makes the final dish look and taste even better.

Variations

The versatility of Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is one of its true superpowers. Feel free to mix things up to suit your cravings, what’s in your fridge, or any special dietary needs — no matter your spin, it’ll still be absolutely swoon-worthy!

• Add Veggies: Tuck thin asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini slices around the salmon for a built-in side that soaks up all that luscious sauce as it roasts.
• Swap the Honey: Use pure maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness or to keep things vegan-friendly if needed.
• Herb it Up: Try fresh dill, basil, or chives in place of (or along with) parsley for a personalized herbal kick.
• Spicy Option: Sprinkle on a pinch of crushed red pepper or chili flakes if you enjoy a little heat with your lemon garlic butter salmon.

How to Make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Step 1: Prep the Pan & Salmon

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay a generous piece of foil on a sheet pan, making sure the long side of the foil matches the pan. Place the salmon fillet, skin-side down, onto the foil. Gently raise the edges of the foil by about two inches so the delicious lemon garlic butter won’t escape — this is key for letting all those flavors mingle perfectly as the salmon bakes.

Step 2: Add Citrus Layers

Arrange thin lemon slices evenly underneath the salmon fillet, tucking them here and there. These little lemon rafts will infuse the fish with juicy citrus flavor while making the finished Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon look stunning and bright.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter

In a microwave-safe cup or bowl, melt the butter. Whisk in fresh lemon juice, honey, and your minced garlic until the mixture smells irresistible and every last bit of garlic is swirled in. Pour or spoon about three-quarters of this mixture over the salmon, saving a little for finishing touches later.

Step 4: Season & Marinate

Sprinkle the salmon with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. If you’ve got an extra 10–15 minutes, let it marinate before baking — a tiny pause that pays off with maximum flavor penetration, especially in the Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon.

Step 5: Wrap, Bake, and Broil

Seal up the foil, adding another piece on top if needed, and pinch everything closed (it doesn’t have to be perfect, just mostly air-tight). Place the packet on your pan and bake for about 17 minutes. Then, carefully open the foil so the salmon is exposed but the sauce is still contained by the edges. Set your oven to HIGH broil, spoon the reserved butter mixture over the fish (if it’s not too saucy already), and broil for 5–10 minutes, or until beautifully caramelized on top. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley gives your Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon a vibrant, herbaceous lift. For extra drama (and a bit more citrus punch), add a few extra lemon slices or zest right before serving. A drizzle of any leftover lemon garlic butter from the pan never hurts either — it makes the plate glisten and the flavors truly sing!

Side Dishes

This salmon is a showstopper alongside fluffy rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or simple quinoa. For vegetables, think crisp-tender green beans, garlicky sautéed spinach, or a bright, fresh garden salad. The luscious sauce from the Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up every drop.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the whole salmon fillet on its pan surrounded by roasted lemon slices and a flurry of herbs — impressive for guests and effortless for you. Or, flake the salmon and spoon it atop creamy polenta or pile it into grain bowls with veggies and extra lemon sauce for a colorful, crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover salmon cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon will stay moist and flavorful in the fridge for up to three days — handy for lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this salmon for longer storage. For best results, wrap individual portions tightly in foil or plastic, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. The texture will be best if you thaw it gently in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To keep your salmon tender, reheat it low and slow — either in a covered dish in a 275°F oven, or gently in the microwave with a splash of extra lemon juice or melted butter. Avoid overcooking so it stays flaky and moist, just like when it was freshly baked!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Even if you’ve never cooked a single piece of salmon before, Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is your ticket to a restaurant-worthy meal, right from your own kitchen. I hope you’ll treat yourself (and maybe your favorite people too!) to this easy, zesty, melt-in-your-mouth dish — it’s bound to be an instant favorite every time you make it.

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