Oven Baked Salmon is brushed with rich garlic butter, coated in a flavorful brown sugar spice blend, and baked to tender, flaky perfection. This simple yet impressive recipe transforms a whole salmon fillet into a juicy, restaurant-quality dinner with minimal effort.
If you have ever felt intimidated by cooking fish, this Oven Baked Salmon will change that completely. It requires just a few pantry staples, one baking sheet, and about 20 minutes in the oven. The result is perfectly seasoned salmon with a delicate caramelized top and moist, flaky interior.
I used to avoid making salmon at home because I worried about overcooking it. However, once I tried baking a whole fillet instead of individual portions, everything changed. The larger cut cooks more evenly and stays juicy. When I brushed it with garlic butter and sprinkled the brown sugar spice mix over the top, the aroma alone convinced me this would be a new favorite. After one bite, I knew this Oven Baked Salmon would stay on regular dinner rotation.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Place salmon on foil-lined baking sheet and crimp edges.
- Mix melted butter and garlic. Brush half over salmon.
- Combine brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Sprinkle over salmon and drizzle remaining butter.
- Bake 15-22 minutes until salmon flakes easily and reaches desired temperature.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love This Oven Baked Salmon
Easy Enough for Weeknights
Oven Baked Salmon comes together in about 30 minutes from start to finish. There is no searing, flipping, or complicated technique required. You simply season, bake, and serve.
Because everything cooks on foil-lined baking sheet, cleanup is quick and stress-free. This makes it perfect for busy evenings when you want a nutritious meal without extra work.
Perfectly Balanced Flavor
The combination of garlic butter and brown sugar creates a subtle caramelized crust while keeping the salmon moist. Italian seasoning adds herbal depth. Paprika brings warmth and color. Garlic powder enhances the savory profile.
The brown sugar does not make the salmon sweet. Instead, it balances the natural richness of the fish and helps the seasoning adhere beautifully.
Ingredients for Oven Baked Salmon
The Salmon
Use a whole 2-pound salmon fillet with the skin on for best results. The skin protects the fish from drying out and prevents sticking.
If you only have individual fillets, you can still use this recipe. However, reduce the baking time and monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
The Garlic Butter
- Melted butter (or olive oil)
- Fresh minced garlic
Stir the garlic into warm melted butter to release its aroma before brushing it over the salmon.
The Brown Sugar Spice Mix
- Brown sugar
- Italian seasoning
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning across the entire fillet.
How to Make Oven Baked Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with a large piece of foil. Place the salmon skin-side down on the foil. Crimp the edges slightly to form a shallow "boat" that catches the butter and juices.
Step 2: Add Garlic Butter
Combine melted butter and minced garlic.
Brush half of the mixture evenly over the salmon. This first layer locks in moisture and adds flavor.
Step 3: Add Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the salmon. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter on top.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 15 to 22 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and still looks glossy. It should not appear dry or dull.
Allow the salmon to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Internal Temperature Guide
For perfectly cooked Oven Baked Salmon, use a food thermometer.
- 125°F: Very tender and juicy
- 130°F: Flaky and moist
- 140°F: Firm but still juicy
- 145°F: Fully cooked per USDA guidelines
Many cooks prefer removing the salmon from the oven at 125°F and allowing it to rest to reach 130°F.
Tips for Success
Do Not Overcook
Overcooked salmon becomes dry and chalky. Watch it closely during the final minutes.
Use Foil for Easy Cleanup
Foil prevents sticking and keeps the garlic butter from spreading across the pan.
Baste for Extra Juiciness
Halfway through baking, spoon some of the melted butter and juices over the top. This step enhances moisture but is optional.
Let It Rest
Resting helps the juices redistribute and prevents the salmon from falling apart when sliced.
Delicious Serving Ideas
Oven Baked Salmon pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- Asparagus
- Cucumber tomato salad
- Avocado salsa
The versatility makes it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Oven Baked Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a 300°F oven or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.
You can also flake leftovers into salads, pasta, or grain bowls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes. Olive oil works well and keeps the recipe dairy-free.
Can I skip the brown sugar?
Yes. The flavor will be less caramelized, but the salmon will still taste delicious.
Can I cook smaller fillets?
Absolutely. Reduce baking time to about 10 to 15 minutes depending on thickness.
Why is my salmon sticking?
If using skinless fillets, brush the foil with oil before placing the fish down.
Can I add lemon?
Yes. A squeeze of fresh lemon after baking brightens the flavor beautifully.
Conclusion
Oven Baked Salmon proves that cooking fish at home does not have to feel intimidating. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a tender, flavorful salmon fillet that rivals any restaurant version.
The garlic butter keeps it moist. The brown sugar spice blend creates irresistible flavor. And the oven does all the work.
Whether you serve it for a quick family dinner or a special gathering, this Oven Baked Salmon delivers perfect results every time.
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