Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Garlic Butter Salmon is the perfect dish when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle. Juicy, flaky salmon fillets are pan-seared to golden perfection, then bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s brightened with a touch of lemon. The result? A quick yet indulgent dinner that feels elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight. If you’re craving a meal that balances comfort and sophistication, this recipe is about to become your go-to.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Effortless – Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Simple Ingredients – Uses everyday staples like salmon, garlic, butter, and lemon.
• Unbelievably Delicious – The buttery garlic sauce coats every bite with rich, savory flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even entertaining.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Pairs beautifully with sides like mashed cauliflower, rice, or a fresh salad.

Unlike many recipes, this version emphasizes continuous basting with foaming garlic butter, ensuring the salmon stays moist, tender, and full of flavor every time.

Ingredients Needed

For the Salmon:

• 4 skinless, boneless salmon fillets (around 180 g / 6 oz each)
• ½ teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons (90 g) salted butter, cubed (or use unsalted + extra ¼ teaspoon salt)
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced by hand (avoid a garlic press for best texture)
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (plus more to taste)
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon

1. Prepare the salmon:
   Remove the salmon from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Pat dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the first side:
   Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets presentation-side down (the rounded side) and sear for about 3 minutes, or until the surface is golden and crisp.
3. Flip and add butter:
   Gently flip the salmon and cook for 1 more minute. Add the butter cubes to the pan. As the butter melts and begins foaming, it will form the base of the sauce.
4. Add garlic and baste:
   Stir in the minced garlic, then immediately start basting. Tilt the pan slightly so the butter collects at one side, and use a spoon to continuously scoop and pour the hot garlic butter over the salmon for about 1½ minutes. This step locks in moisture and infuses flavor.
5. Check doneness:
   For the juiciest results, aim for an internal temperature of 50°C (122°F) before resting. Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for 3 minutes; it will rise to about 53°C (127°F), which is perfect for medium-rare.
6. Finish the sauce:
   Take the pan off the heat but keep the butter warm. Stir in the lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust with more lemon if desired.
7. Serve and garnish:
   Place salmon fillets on plates, drizzle with garlic butter sauce (a little goes a long way), and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Pair with sides like cauliflower mash, roasted vegetables, or leafy greens for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This salmon pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, garlic rice, or a crisp salad. For an elegant touch, serve with a wedge of lemon on the side.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the salmon.

Helpful Notes

• Pan choice matters: A nonstick or cast-iron skillet ensures even searing without sticking.
• Butter quality: Good-quality butter makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Herb variations: Swap parsley for dill, basil, or chives for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika for a subtle kick.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe delivers everything you want in a dinner—juicy fish, a silky sauce, and bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself, this dish checks all the boxes: quick, satisfying, and irresistibly good.

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and star rating below—I’d love to hear your feedback! Don’t forget to share it on Pinterest or Facebook to inspire fellow food lovers.
👉 What’s your favorite side dish to pair with salmon? Let me know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before seasoning. This ensures proper searing.

How do I make this gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses no flour or breading. Just ensure your butter and seasonings are gluten-free certified.

Why did my butter sauce separate?

The butter may have overheated. To avoid splitting, keep the heat at medium and continuously stir or baste once the butter starts foaming.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter for a plant-based butter alternative. Coconut oil also works, but it will slightly change the flavor.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently for best texture.