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Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon

Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon

Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon is an effortless and gourmet-feeling dinner that combines tender, flaky salmon with a rich garlic butter sauce and melty Parmesan cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe delivers a decadent and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)

Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Seasonings and Garnish

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear and even cooking. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Make garlic butter sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Bake the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over each fillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Broil for finishing: Switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top to create a golden, bubbly crust. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  5. Garnish and serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

  • Choose fresh salmon with bright color and firm texture for best results.
  • Patting salmon dry before seasoning helps the sauce stick and creates better searing.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded for optimal flavor.
  • Keep a close watch when broiling to avoid burning the cheese topping.
  • Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to lock in moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon, easy salmon recipe, baked salmon, healthy salmon dinner, quick dinner, gluten free salmon