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30-Minute Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Close-up of a perfectly cooked salmon fillet with a golden, crispy garlic butter crust and fresh parsley.

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Make restaurant-quality salmon fast. This recipe delivers tender, flaky fish with a savory, buttery crust in under 30 minutes, perfect for any weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve a crispier exterior. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top surface of each salmon fillet.
  5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered tops of the salmon. Press lightly so the cheese adheres.
  6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cheese topping should be golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, place the salmon skin-side down on a wire rack set over the baking sheet before brushing with butter.
  • If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add 1 teaspoon of honey to the butter mixture.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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