Name: Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless salmon fillets; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp honey; ½ tsp dried parsley or 2 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp pepper; Pinch paprika; 1 lemon, sliced into half-moons

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 2 reviews

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If you want a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe pairs tender, flaky salmon with a perfectly balanced glaze of sweet honey, savory garlic, and rich melted butter, creating a flavor combination that is absolutely irresistible. It’s incredibly easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve any night of the week, making it an all-time favorite for those who crave delicious, comforting meals without a fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Four thick raw salmon fillets with bright orange flesh and white lines lie side by side on a white plate with a subtle wavy pattern, placed on a wooden surface. To the right of the plate, there is a whole lemon. Above the plate, a clear glass bowl holds several pale yellow butter cubes. Below the plate, a small white bowl contains amber-colored liquid, likely syrup or sauce. To the left, a small white dish holds four piles of seasonings—white salt, dark pepper, green herbs, and red spice. Two cloves of garlic rest near the small bowl. The whole scene is set on a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe. Each element is simple but carefully chosen to contribute layers of flavor and texture, from the creamy butter to the bright burst of lemon.

4 boneless salmon fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and honey flavors beautifully.
2 cloves minced garlic: Provides a warm, aromatic base that complements the salmon perfectly.
2 tbsp honey: Offers a natural sweetness that balances the savory notes and promotes a lovely caramelization.
½ tsp dried parsley or 2 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens the dish.
¼ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors without overpowering.
¼ tsp pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
Pinch of paprika: A hint of smoky warmth that rounds out the profile.
1 lemon, sliced into half-moons: Brightens each bite with citrus zest and a fresh finish.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C/400°F (fan). Line a baking tray with foil or a silicone mat, which makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the tray—it helps keep the salmon moist during baking and makes for an easier serve later on.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, honey, parsley, salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. This simple yet aromatic mixture is what transforms your salmon from good to gourmet, coating the fillets in a luscious, flavorful bath.

Step 3: Coat and Add Lemon

Pour the honey garlic butter mixture generously over each salmon fillet. Don’t worry if some of the sauce pools around the salmon—this will help baste it as it cooks. Then, tuck the lemon half-moons on top and around the salmon, which will infuse a bright, citrusy aroma as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake and Baste

Pop the salmon into the oven for 8 minutes. Then, open the oven and spoon the buttery glaze that’s gathered on the tray over the fillets—this basting step seals in moisture and boosts the glossy finish. Bake for another 4 to 7 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and feels tender to the touch.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Three grilled salmon pieces lie on a dark pan, each topped with yellow lemon slices and sprinkled with green herbs and black pepper. The salmon is bright orange with a slightly shiny, moist texture. A silver spoon above the fish drizzles a clear golden sauce over one piece. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your plating, sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley over the salmon for a pop of green and a fresh herbal note. A few extra lemon wedges on the side allow guests to add brightness to their taste.

Side Dishes

This Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or even a crisp green salad. Steamed or sautéed green vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli, create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the salmon on a bed of fluffy quinoa or wild rice studded with herbs and nuts. You can also try plating it with a drizzle of extra honey garlic butter sauce artistically swirled around the edge for a restaurant-style finish that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this fantastic Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining most of their delightful flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked salmon, though the texture may be slightly affected. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Frozen salmon is best eaten within 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating

When reheating, be gentle to avoid drying out the salmon. Use a low temperature in the oven or warm carefully in a microwave on a low setting, covering the fish to retain moisture. Adding a small pat of butter or a drizzle of honey can help refresh those luscious flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it fully in the refrigerator overnight before preparing and baking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley works perfectly and still adds that lovely herbal note. Use half the amount of dried parsley compared to fresh to avoid overpowering the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter glaze will give your Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe a gentle kick without masking the sweet and savory flavors.

Can I bake the salmon at a lower temperature?

You can bake at 180°C/350°F, but it will take a bit longer—around 18 to 20 minutes. Just keep an eye on the salmon’s texture to avoid overcooking.

What side dishes go best with this salmon?

Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad all complement this dish beautifully, creating a well-rounded and colorful meal.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe is a gem that brings bold flavors and effortless elegance straight to your dinner table. Its simplicity and incredible taste make it a dish you’ll want to keep coming back to, whether for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner with friends. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will be a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire.

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