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I’ve always been a fan of quick dinners that feel fancy without much fuss, and let me tell you, this Garlic Butter Salmon has become my go-to. Picture this: perfectly flaky salmon swimming in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that melts in your mouth—it’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights special. In my experience, busy evenings don’t have to mean boring food; this Garlic Butter Salmon comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes like something from a high-end restaurant.
What I love most is how versatile it is—you can whip it up for a solo lunch or impress dinner guests without breaking a sweat. I’ve shared this recipe with friends who swear it’s now their family’s favorite, and honestly, it’s those little victories that make cooking so rewarding. If you’re craving something delicious and easy, stick around because I’m excited to walk you through making your own Garlic Butter Salmon today.
Key Takeaways:
- Garlic Butter Salmon is a quick, elegant dinner ready in 25 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- It’s perfect for beginners since it requires just one pan and basic techniques.
- The star is the buttery garlic sauce that infuses every bite with incredible flavor.
- Pat the salmon dry for the crispiest skin and best sear.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently to keep it moist.
Why You’ll Adore This Garlic Butter Salmon
Effortless Elegance: There’s something magical about how this Garlic Butter Salmon transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal. You don’t need hours in the kitchen; it’s all about that quick sear that locks in the juices.
Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Salmon is loaded with omega-3s, and pairing it with garlic butter makes it both healthy and indulgent—we’re talking heart-friendly fats without sacrificing taste. In my experience, it’s a win for those watching their diet but craving flavor.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike dig into this Garlic Butter Salmon because the sauce is so buttery and mild. It’s not overly fishy, making it approachable for picky eaters.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy Tuesday night or a special date, this dish fits right in. Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t love something this quick and crowd-pleasing?
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is the heart of this dish, providing that tender, flaky texture we all crave. I always choose wild-caught for its richer flavor, but farmed works too if that’s what you have on hand. It absorbs the garlic butter beautifully, creating layers of taste in every bite.
Unsalted Butter: Butter is the creamy base that ties everything together, melting into a luscious sauce. Opt for high-quality to avoid any off flavors—I’ve found European-style works wonders for extra richness. It helps carry the garlic’s aroma without overpowering the salmon.
Fresh Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic adds that punchy, aromatic depth that defines this Garlic Butter Salmon. In my experience, fresh is non-negotiable; it releases oils as it cooks, infusing the whole dish with warmth. Don’t skimp—two or three cloves go a long way for four servings.
How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon
Prepare the Salmon and Season
Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for crispy skin and helps the Garlic Butter Salmon sear perfectly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, and maybe a squeeze of lemon for brightness. In my experience, letting it sit for a few minutes draws out excess moisture, making the final result even flakier. Lay out your other ingredients nearby to keep things smooth.
Melt the Garlic Butter Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of butter until it foams gently. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—watch it closely to avoid burning, as that can turn bitter fast. Here’s the thing: this buttery base smells amazing and sets the stage for the salmon. Add a splash of lemon juice to deglaze and create that silky emulsion.
Cook the Garlic Butter Salmon
Place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet, letting it cook for 4-5 minutes until the edges crisp up. Spoon the garlic butter over the top as it cooks, basting for extra flavor infusion—this is where the magic happens for your Garlic Butter Salmon. Flip carefully and cook another 3-4 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork. Rest it briefly off the heat to keep it juicy.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)
Garlic Butter Salmon Instructions
- Pat salmon dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in skillet over medium heat; add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add remaining butter and lemon juice; stir to combine.
- Place salmon skin-side down; cook 4-5 minutes.
- Baste with sauce, flip, and cook 3-4 more minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Salmon
Room Temperature Salmon: Let your fillets sit out for 10 minutes before cooking—it cooks more evenly and stays tender.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain heat and get that perfect sear.
Fresh Lemon Zest: Grate some zest into the butter for an extra citrus pop that brightens the whole dish.
You Must Know
- This recipe serves 4 and totals about 350 calories per portion.
- Salmon should reach 145°F internally for safety.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best crust on your Garlic Butter Salmon.
- Fresh herbs elevate the sauce—dried works in a pinch but isn’t as vibrant.
How to Store Garlic Butter Salmon
Once cooled, wrap your Garlic Butter Salmon tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months, but thaw overnight before reheating. Reheat gently in a low oven or skillet with a bit of butter to revive the moisture—microwaving can make it dry, so avoid that if possible.
Customizing Your Garlic Butter Salmon
If you’re dairy-free, swap butter for ghee or olive oil to keep that rich texture in your Garlic Butter Salmon. Add capers or red pepper flakes for a tangy or spicy twist—I’ve tried both and they add fun without much effort. For a low-carb meal, pair it with zucchini noodles; check out our spicy salmon bowls for more ideas. Vegetarians can sub tofu, but adjust cook time accordingly.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Salmon
This dish shines with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness, balancing the richness. Don’t forget crusty bread for dipping—it’s irresistible. Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect meal.
Garlic Butter Salmon
Salmon fillets drenched in the easiest and most irresistible garlic butter sauce!
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 4 boneless skinless Salmon Fillets
- 02 40g / 1/4 cup Plain Flour
- 03 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 04 1 tsp Salt (plus more to taste)
- 05 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (plus more to taste)
- 06 1/2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 07 6 tbsp / 90g / 3.2oz Unsalted Butter (divided into tbsp chunks (see notes))
- 08 2 cloves Garlic (finely diced (see notes))
- 09 120ml / 1/2 cup Vegetable Stock
- 10 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (finely diced)
- 11 1 Lemon (divided into 4 wedges (to serve))
Instructions
In a large shallow dish combine flour, garlic powder, salt and black pepper. Coat each salmon fillet, giving them a shake before placing to one side.
Add the olive oil to a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the fillets and fry for around 3 mins, or until they build up a golden crust on the bottom. Carefully flip them over and fry for another 2 mins, or until golden on the other side. Add in 1 tbsp butter and baste the fillets for a minute or so, or until they're just about cooked through. Remove from pan and lower heat to medium.
Add the garlic and fry until it just begins to take on colour (careful it doesn't burn or it'll turn bitter!). Pour in the stock and scrape any flavour off the pan. Add the remaining butter and whisk until it binds with the stock and turns it cloudy. Add parsley and a pinch of salt & pepper if desired.
Simmer for a few mins, stirring as you go, until the sauce begins to thicken. Turn heat to low and add the salmon back in. Baste in the sauce to warm it through, then serve with more sauce and a squeeze of lemon juice. The sauce will thicken more as you baste the salmon.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Salmon
Can I make Garlic Butter Salmon ahead of time?
You can prep the garlic butter sauce up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. However, cook the salmon fresh for the best texture—reheating can make it tough. It’s ideal for same-day meals.
How long does Garlic Butter Salmon last in the fridge?
Leftovers keep well for 2 days in an airtight container. Beyond that, the flavors might intensify too much. Always check for freshness before eating.
Is Garlic Butter Salmon keto-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s low-carb and high in healthy fats. Skip any starchy sides to stay keto. We have more low-carb meal ideas if you need inspiration.
What if I don’t have fresh salmon?
Frozen works great—just thaw completely and pat dry. Your Garlic Butter Salmon will still turn out delicious with this simple swap.
Can I bake the Garlic Butter Salmon instead?
Yes, preheat to 400°F and bake for 12-15 minutes after topping with the sauce. It’s hands-off and perfect for batches.
How do I know when Garlic Butter Salmon is done?
It flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internally. Overcooking dries it out, so use a thermometer for precision—your Garlic Butter Salmon deserves it.
Can I use salmon without skin?
Skinless fillets are fine; just sear both sides evenly. The skin adds crispiness, but it won’t ruin the dish without it.
Is there a dairy-free version for Garlic Butter Salmon?
Try coconut oil or vegan butter; it mimics the creaminess well. See our honey garlic shrimp for more dairy-free tips.
Final Thoughts
From the first sizzle in the pan to that final buttery bite, this Garlic Butter Salmon captures everything I love about home cooking—simple, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Now that you’ve got the recipe, I hope you’ll give it a try and make it your own. Drop a comment below if you do; I’d love to hear how your Garlic Butter Salmon turned out!