Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a simple, tasty dish that brings together juicy salmon fillets, bright lemon slices, and rich garlic butter all in one easy pan. The buttery garlic sauce seeps into the salmon as it cooks, making each bite super flavorful and tender. Plus, using a sheet pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
I love making this salmon when I want something that feels fancy but doesn’t take a lot of effort. The lemon adds a fresh zing that balances perfectly with the buttery garlic, and it fills the kitchen with such a nice aroma while it’s baking. It’s one of those meals that always makes me feel like I’m treating myself without any complicated steps.
My favorite way to serve this is right out of the oven with some roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad on the side. Sometimes I even toss some baby potatoes on the same pan to cook alongside the salmon for a one-pan dinner that’s both healthy and comforting. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and a hit with everyone at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for a rich flavor and moist texture. If you can’t find fresh, frozen salmon works too—just thaw it fully before cooking. Skin-on fillets help keep the fish juicy during baking.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds a creamy richness while garlic gives zing. You can swap butter for olive oil to keep it lighter or dairy-free. Minced fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Lemon: Slices of fresh lemon on top brighten the dish with citrus freshness, balancing the butter. If lemons aren’t available, a splash of lemon juice before serving can also work.
Vegetables: Asparagus and cherry tomatoes roast perfectly alongside salmon, adding color and flavor but feel free to swap these for green beans, zucchini, or broccoli.
How Do I Get the Salmon Tender and Flaky without Overcooking?
Timing and temperature are key when baking salmon. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
- Place salmon skin-side down on the sheet pan to protect the flesh and hold in moisture.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture on top to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes depending on thickness. Check early—salmon is done when it flakes easily but is still moist inside.
- Use a fork or a knife to gently test the thickest part for flakiness.
Remember, salmon continues to cook a little after you take it out of the oven, so it’s better to pull it just before it looks fully done for tender, juicy results.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large sheet pan – perfect for cooking salmon and veggies all at once with minimal cleanup.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Small mixing bowl – to whisk together the garlic butter sauce quickly and evenly.
- Basting brush – lets you spread the garlic butter smoothly over the salmon and veggies.
- Sharp knife – for slicing lemon thinly and trimming vegetables.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for cod or halibut – both bake well and soak up the lemon butter flavor nicely.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers – they roast beautifully and add more color and texture.
- Use fresh dill or basil instead of parsley – these herbs add a unique, fresh twist.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a little heat – perfect if you like a bit of spice with your garlic butter.
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon and Vegetables:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes on the vine
For The Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra lemon wedges for serving)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 12-15 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal ready in about 25 minutes total. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet:
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper well. This flavorful sauce will give your salmon and veggies a delicious, buttery garlic taste.
3. Arrange Salmon and Veggies:
Place the salmon fillets in the center of the baking sheet. Surround them with the trimmed asparagus and cherry tomatoes. This way everything cooks together and the flavors mingle nicely.
4. Brush and Season:
Brush the garlic butter sauce generously over the salmon fillets. Drizzle some over the asparagus and tomatoes too. Toss the veggies lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.
5. Add Lemon Slices:
Lay a lemon slice on top of each salmon fillet. Scatter a few more lemon slices here and there on the veggies to infuse the whole dish with fresh citrus aroma.
6. Bake Until Perfect:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Check that the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is just tender but still crisp.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and plate your salmon and veggies. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty, healthy sheet pan meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear and flavor.
Can I Prepare This Meal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the salmon, vegetables, and garlic butter sauce on the sheet pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. Just add the lemon slices right before baking to keep them fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) or in the microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the salmon.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Salmon?
This salmon pairs well with simple sides like rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
