Name: Savory Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets Skin-on Salmon (Skinless can be a substitute.); 1 medium Lemon (Sliced); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh-squeezed preferred.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup can be used for vegan alternative.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced finely.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust based on dietary needs.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Fresh-ground recommended.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped)

The aroma hit me like a wave, a delightful blend of garlic and citrus that instantly made my mouth water. This 30-Minute Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe has become my go-to for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With its juicy, tender salmon, this dish brings together the perfect balance of zesty lemon and rich butter, creating an irresistible sauce that elevates even the simplest dinner. Plus, it’s an easy, high-protein meal that can be ready to serve in just half an hour—ideal for those busy weeknights or when a craving for something fresh strikes. Fancy a quick dinner that makes you feel like a gourmet chef? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why is sheet pan salmon so popular?

Ease of Preparation: With just one pan and minimal prep, this recipe saves you time and cleanup. You’ll be thrilled at how quick it is to toss everything together!

Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a heavenly sauce that you won’t want to miss—this dish is bursting with flavor!

Healthy Eating Made Simple: High in protein and omega-3s, making it a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste. Pair it with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Impressive Presentation: Serve right from the pan for a beautiful, family-style dinner that’s sure to wow your guests! You might want to check out my Chicken Sheet Pan for another effortless option!

Customized to Your Taste: Feel free to mix and match ingredients like adding fresh herbs or swapping out the citrus—endless possibilities await!

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Ingredients

For the Salmon
• Skin-on Salmon Fillet – Adds moisture and flavor; skinless can be a substitute, though it loses some richness.
• Lemon (sliced) – Freshness and zest that brightens the dish; remember, fresh lemons yield the best flavor!

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich, luscious sauce; olive oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Lemon Juice – Intensifies the lemon flavor; always opt for fresh-squeezed for brightness.
• Honey – A touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully; try maple syrup if you prefer a vegan alternative.
• Garlic (minced) – Provides an aromatic punch; be sure to mince finely for better flavor integration.

Seasonings
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the savory elements; feel free to adjust based on dietary needs, or use sea salt.
• Black Pepper – Adds a subtle heat; fresh-ground pepper is recommended for the best flavor.

Optional Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a beautiful pop of color; feel free to skip if you want a simpler presentation.

This Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is not only easy to pull together, but it’s also a delectable high-protein meal that’s set to impress any dinner guest!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for evenly cooking the salmon while allowing the butter to melt beautifully. While the oven warms up, line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later and to keep your meal vibrant and juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Once the oven is ready, place the skin-on salmon fillet, skin-side down, in the center of your foil-lined pan. Gently pinch up the edges of the foil to create a small barrier around the salmon; this will help contain the delicious butter sauce as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Lemon Slices
Next, arrange fresh lemon slices around the salmon fillet on the sheet pan. These slices will infuse a bright, zesty flavor into the dish while visually enhancing the presentation. You’ll love the aromatic twist they provide as they cook alongside the salmon.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt about 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, and finely minced garlic to create a rich, flavorful sauce. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the salmon and lemon slices, ensuring every bite is infused with that heavenly garlic butter flavor.

Step 5: Season Generously
Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper over the salmon and lemon to enhance the flavors of the dish. Taking a moment to season well is crucial—it brings out the delightful taste of the salmon and complements the tangy lemon.

Step 6: Seal and Bake
Now, take the edges of the foil and fold them tightly over the salmon to create a sealed packet. This will trap the steam and moisture, resulting in tender, perfectly cooked fish. Place the packed sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 17 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: Optional Broil for Crispiness
For an extra touch, after baking, you can remove the foil to uncover the salmon. Turn your oven to the broil setting and place the pan back in for 5–10 minutes to achieve a delightful crispy top. Keep a close eye during this step, as broiling can brown quickly!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, once your Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is perfectly cooked and beautifully browned, carefully remove it from the oven. Garnish it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot, and enjoy the succulent flavors created by the garlic butter and zesty lemon!

Make Ahead Options

These Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the salmon with the garlic butter sauce (butter melted with lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic) up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those flavors to seep in. For even more convenience, slice the lemons and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain quality, be sure to keep the salmon covered in the refrigerator, preventing it from drying out. When ready to bake, simply place the marinated salmon on the foil-lined sheet pan with the lemon slices, seal, and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have a stunning, delicious dinner ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Fridge: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: If you have extra salmon, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months for the best taste.

Reheating: To reheat, gently thaw salmon overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to preserve the flavors.

Serving Suggestion: Consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice upon reheating to revive the flavors of your Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon!

Expert Tips for Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and garlic bring out the best flavors in this dish. Avoid dried garlic or bottled lemon juice for optimal taste.
Check Salmon Doneness: Cooking times can vary; use a fork to test for flakiness to ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked without being overdone.
Seal Tightly: When sealing the foil, make sure it’s airtight to lock in moisture, resulting in juicy, tender Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon.
Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add herbs like dill or thyme for a flavorful twist based on your preferences. Mix and match for a unique experience!
Watch the Broil: If broiling, keep a close watch as cooking times can differ; it’s easy to go from crispy to burnt in a blink!

What to Serve with Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?

Delight in creating a memorable meal with vibrant sides that complement the succulent flavors of the salmon.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture and garlic undertones echo the flavors of the dish, providing a comforting contrast to every bite.
Imagine both dishes on your plate, harmonizing in a cozy embrace of flavors.
Steamed Asparagus: The fresh crunch and bright flavor balance the rich garlic butter sauce, offering a crisp and nutritious element to your meal.
Crispy Roasted Broccoli: This dish brings a satisfying texture and adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery salmon. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness, creating a delightful veggie companion.
Citrusy Quinoa Salad: This light and refreshing salad introduces a zesty element that complements the lemon and garlic without overwhelming the palate. Plus, the protein boost from quinoa makes it a wholesome choice.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the luscious butter sauce, warm and crispy garlic bread adds a delightful crunch that complements the tender salmon.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the meal with its citrus notes, making each sip a pleasant experience that elevates dinner to a special occasion.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal on a light note with a refreshing sorbet—a perfect palate cleanser that echoes the bright lemony notes of the salmon and concludes the dining experience beautifully.

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for olive oil to maintain rich flavors while keeping it dairy-free. The olive oil adds a lovely, subtle depth to the dish.
Sweet Substitution: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly twist. The maple syrup contrasts beautifully with the lemon, adding a unique sweetness!
Fresh Herb Boost: Add a handful of fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil for a burst of flavor. They’ll complement the salmon perfectly and brighten up the dish with their vibrant colors.
Citrus Twist: Replace the lemon slices with orange or lime for a refreshing change. The sweet and tangy notes will create a delightful new flavor profile you can’t resist.
Spicy Kick: For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the salmon before baking. This splash of heat perfectly balances the rich butter and bright lemon.
Nutty Texture: Top the salmon with chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch and healthy fats. This delightful texture twist takes your dish to the next level of deliciousness.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in your favorite veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers alongside the salmon. They’ll roast beautifully and add vibrant color to your meal, making it even more appealing!

Incorporating these variations makes this dish even more adaptable! You can explore numerous flavor combinations that suit your family’s taste. If you’re looking for more sheet pan inspiration, don’t miss my Chicken Sheet Pan or my Baked Salmon Lemon recipes to keep dinner exciting!

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best salmon fillet?
Absolutely! When selecting a salmon fillet, look for bright pink flesh without dark spots or discoloration. If you see dark spots all over, that may indicate age. Fresh salmon should smell pleasant, not fishy. Skin-on fillets are preferred for moisture and flavor, but skinless can be used if that’s your preference.

How should I store leftover salmon?
Very! Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. If you’re looking to keep it longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze the salmon after cooking?
For sure! To freeze your cooked Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, first, allow it to cool completely. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

What if my salmon turns out dry?
Don’t worry, I’ve been there! If your salmon is dry, it might have been overcooked. A good rule of thumb is to cook it until it just flakes easily with a fork — this usually means an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C). If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, keeping the foil tightly sealed during baking helps retain moisture, so be sure to do that!

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
Very! If you or your guests have allergies, be mindful of the butter and honey used in the recipe. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil. For a vegan alternative, use maple syrup in place of honey. Always check with your guests if you’re unsure, it’s better to be cautious!

How can I serve this dish to impress guests?
I often make it beautiful! To impress, serve it directly from the sheet pan as a family-style meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice for color and brightness. Pairing it with roasted veggies or a vibrant salad adds a lovely contrast on the table. Enjoy!