Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

If you’re looking to impress with almost zero fuss, Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is about to become your go-to. Imagine juicy, perfectly roasted salmon infused with buttery citrus, sweet notes of honey, and a burst of fresh garlic—all baked together on one pan. This dish is as easy as it is elegant, perfect for busy weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you crave something deeply flavorful but light and vibrant. With minimal prep and cleanup, Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon lets you savor delicious results with hardly any work. Let’s get cooking and bring a little extra sunshine to your dinner table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long list to make something this delicious—just pure, essential flavors that marry beautifully together. Each ingredient in Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon plays a distinct role in creating its signature flavor, luscious texture, and beautiful color.

  • Salmon Fillet (about 1.5 to 1.75 pounds, skin-on): The main star—choose a center-cut piece for even cooking and juicy results.
  • Lemon (sliced into thin rounds): These slices infuse the fish with zesty brightness and make for a gorgeous presentation.
  • Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): The buttery base coats everything in richness and keeps the salmon ultra-moist.
  • Lemon Juice (3 tablespoons): Adds a tangy punch that balances all the flavors.
  • Honey (2 to 3 tablespoons): This secret weapon offers a touch of sweetness that rounds out the savory and tart notes.
  • Garlic (5 cloves, finely pressed or minced): Fresh garlic brings irresistible aroma and sharp, mellow flavor after roasting.
  • Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon): Season to your taste, but don’t be shy—salmon loves salt.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): A hint of gentle heat and depth.
  • Fresh Parsley (2 teaspoons, finely chopped, optional): Adds a burst of color and herby finish.

How to Make Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While that’s heating up, line a sheet pan with foil and lay your beautiful salmon fillet in the center, skin-side down. Make sure the foil has high enough sides to hold in all that luscious buttery mixture later on.

Step 2: Nestle the Lemons

Tuck those lovely lemon slices underneath and around the salmon fillet. The lemons will perfume the fish and keep it moist as it bakes, while also soaking up all the buttery juices.

Step 3: Make That Magical Butter Sauce

In a microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup, melt the unsalted butter until bubbling and golden. Whisk in the fresh lemon juice, honey, and all that glorious minced garlic—it should smell incredible already!

Step 4: Pour and Season

Carefully spoon or pour about three-quarters of the prepared lemon garlic butter mixture all over the salmon, letting it sink into every crevice. Season the top with kosher salt and black pepper for bold, balanced flavor.

Step 5: Seal and Marinate (Optional but Awesome)

If you have a few extra minutes, crimp another piece of foil on top, making a neat, airtight packet. Letting everything marinate for ten to fifteen minutes before baking really lets those flavors soak in and takes your Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon to the next level.

Step 6: Bake to Tender Perfection

Slide the foil packet onto your baking sheet and bake in your preheated oven for about 17 minutes. This gently cooks the salmon so it stays moist and just begins to flake.

Step 7: Broil for Golden Top

Once baked, uncover the foil to expose the salmon and spoon over the reserved buttery mixture (if you like things extra saucy). Set your oven to high broil and return the salmon to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly caramelized. Watch closely so it doesn’t overcook!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

As soon as your Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is beautifully bronzed, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and soak up the compliments!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

 

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Garnishes

A generous shower of fresh parsley right before serving adds color, herbal brightness, and a fresh finish. For extra flair, scatter extra lemon slices or even finely sliced chives along the fish. If you have flaky sea salt or a grind of extra black pepper, now’s the time to use them—they’ll catch the light and make the salmon even more inviting.

Side Dishes

For sides, you really can’t go wrong. A fluffy bed of rice or garlicky mashed potatoes soaks up all that incredible sauce, while roasted asparagus or broccoli adds crisp-tender contrast. If you’re after something lighter, a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette is wonderful alongside Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t feel boxed in by the traditional fillet! Try flaking the salmon into big, juicy chunks and serving over a salad, or stuff it into soft pita bread with crunchy slaw and a dollop of yogurt. If you’re hosting, arrange the salmon on a platter with lemon slices and sprigs of parsley for a stunning centerpiece that’s deceptively simple.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days and is just as delicious cold or gently reheated.

Freezing

Salmon freezes well when wrapped tightly or stored in freezer bags. Slice into individual portions for easy future meals. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture—though keep in mind the sauce may separate a bit after freezing, so save extra fresh parsley and lemon for serving.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftover salmon gently in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can dry it out. A quick steam with a splash of lemon juice or a bit more melted butter will revive its flavor beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use salmon portions instead of one large fillet?

Absolutely! Individual salmon portions will cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier. The flavor and texture of Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon remain just as fantastic.

How do I know when salmon is perfectly cooked?

Your salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork in the thickest part and looks just slightly translucent inside. Overcooked salmon will be dry, so keep a close eye when broiling.

Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is always best for the brightest, cleanest flavor in Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, but bottled can work in a pinch—just try to find one without added preservatives.

Can I add other vegetables to the sheet pan?

Yes! Thin-sliced asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can bake right alongside the salmon. Arrange them around (not under) the fish and watch their cooking times so they don’t get too soft.

Does this recipe work with other fish?

Definitely—try it with firm white fish like cod or halibut, or even trout. Just adjust cooking times since thinner fillets may bake faster than salmon.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon—there’s something magical about how so few ingredients can make such a memorable meal. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, it always feels fresh, comforting, and special. Give it a try and let the gorgeous flavors brighten up your table!

Print

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. The combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, and savory garlic elevates the taste of the salmon to a whole new level.

  • Author: nova
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, Broiling
  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon:

  • About 1.5 to 1.75 pounds skin-on salmon fillet

Buttery Mixture:

  • 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice, from about 1 lemon
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons honey
  • 5 cloves garlic, finely pressed or minced; or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
  • 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnishing

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375F.
  2. Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon on a sheet of foil with the skin-side down.
  3. Prepare the Buttery Mixture: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish and mix in lemon juice, honey, and garlic.
  4. Coat the Salmon: Pour most of the buttery mixture over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Bake: Seal the foil and bake the salmon for about 17 minutes.
  6. Broil: Open the foil packet, spoon the reserved buttery mixture over the salmon, and broil for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • You can adjust the amount of garlic and honey according to your taste preferences.
  • Make sure to seal the foil tightly to keep the salmon moist.
  • Watch the salmon closely while broiling to prevent overcooking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Sheet Pan Salmon, Lemon Garlic Salmon, Easy Salmon Recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating