Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon is one of those deceptively simple recipes that absolutely dazzles at the table while demanding only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Every bite is buttery, garlicky, and lavishly topped with golden parmesan, creating a juicy on the inside, crisp on top salmon that will win over family and guests alike. Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or a showstopping centerpiece for a special occasion, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again—it’s foolproof comfort and elegance all in one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s honestly amazing how such simple, everyday ingredients can deliver such luscious flavor and irresistible aroma. Each one in this list brings a punch of color, richness, or that special finishing touch to your Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon.
- Salmon fillets: Firm, fresh salmon is the star—choose skin-on for best flavor and moisture.
- Butter: Melted butter lends richness and assures a moist, tender texture that mingles beautifully with garlic.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses aromatic, savory warmth into every bite.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan creates that irresistible golden, cheesy crust that’s both crunchy and salty.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds bright color and a hint of herbal freshness at the end.
- Lemon: Slices or wedges provide a burst of acidity that balances the richness beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: A simple season, but essential to draw out every nuance from the fish and crust.
- Olive oil: A quick brush prevents sticking and helps the edges crisp up perfectly.
How to Make Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon
Step 1: Prepare Your Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C)—this temperature is just right for getting that perfectly cooked, moist inside and slightly crispy top. Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and check for pin bones, removing any you find with tweezers. Place the fillets, skin-side down, on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a lightly oiled baking dish, giving each a little space.
Step 2: Whip Up the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine your melted butter with the minced garlic, stirring until it smells absolutely irresistible. Drizzle this mixture generously over each salmon fillet—don’t be shy! It will soak right in and create that signature succulence in your Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon.
Step 3: Make It Cheesy
Scatter freshly grated parmesan over each fillet, ensuring even coverage so every forkful gets that salty, cheesy crunch. A little extra never hurts; the cheese will form a delicious, golden crust as it bakes.
Step 4: Season and Bake
Sprinkle the tops with a good pinch of salt and black pepper, then drizzle just a kiss of olive oil for extra crispness. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 12–14 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon. If you love a deeper golden brown top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to tender, flaky perfection, hit your Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon with a splash of fresh lemon juice and a scatter of chopped parsley. It’s ready to wow—rustle up your favorite sides and dig in immediately.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon
Garnishes
The finishing touches really make this dish restaurant-worthy. Freshly chopped parsley brings pop and freshness right at the end, while lemon wedges add glimmer and a zippy burst for anyone who loves a bit more acidity. You could even sprinkle a pinch of extra parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent—there’s no such thing as too much cheese here.
Side Dishes
Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon pairs beautifully with almost any side: think buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, fluffy rice pilaf, or even a crisp green salad. For a low-carb option, go with steamed broccoli or a bed of baby spinach tossed in a lemony vinaigrette. Every side becomes special next to that flavorful, rich salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to take it up a notch, try serving the fillets family-style on a wooden board, surrounded by lemon wedges and showers of parsley, or flake the salmon onto rice bowls with crunchy veggies and drizzles of extra garlic butter. For a showstopping brunch, tuck the salmon inside toasted buns with arugula, extra parmesan, and a dollop of aioli.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen, making it just as tasty for next-day lunches or salads.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap leftover salmon tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
Reheating
To reheat, place the salmon in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes, just until heated through. This helps preserve that lovely, moist texture without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon?
Absolutely! Just thaw the salmon fillets thoroughly in the refrigerator and pat dry before preparing. This way, your garlic butter and parmesan topping adheres beautifully and the salmon cooks evenly.
What’s the best way to tell if the salmon is done?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh has turned an opaque pink. An instant-read thermometer should read 145°F at the thickest part for perfectly cooked Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Of course! Substitute the butter with a plant-based version and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. It won’t be quite the same, but you’ll still get the lovely crust and buttery flavor.
Is it possible to grill Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon?
Yes! Prepare the fish as usual, then grill on a well-oiled grate over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side. The parmesan may brown a touch quicker, so keep an eye out.
How can I add extra flavor to the garlic butter mixture?
Try stirring in a little paprika, dried Italian herbs, or a hint of crushed red pepper for heat. These extras bring a tasty twist without overshadowing the classic flavors of Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one easy, crave-worthy dinner everyone should have up their sleeve, it’s Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon. The flavors sing, the prep is a breeze, and every bite feels a little bit special. Try it tonight and see just how quickly this dish becomes a new favorite in your kitchen.
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Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Parmesan Salmon recipe is a flavorful and easy dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory topping for the tender salmon fillets.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
- Top the salmon: Spoon the garlic butter mixture over the salmon fillets, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Make sure to not overcook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and Parmesan to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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