The Best Sheet‑Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

This sheet-pan lemon garlic butter salmon recipe is one of my favorite weeknight dinners!
What I love about this dinner sheetpan dinner is that it’s so flavorful, healthy, and requires almost zero cleanup.
I’ve been making this for years on nights when I need something fresh and quick.
It makes great leftovers for lunch the next day, and it’s easy to switch up with different seasonings or vegetables.

If you like this dish, you should try my The easiest beef crispy tacos (30 minute dinner!), Healthy Tuna Patties (Gluten-free), or Easy Lemon Chicken Couscous (with creamy yogurt sauce!)

Why You Will Love This Dinner

• Easy cooking – Just season, bake, and dinner is ready in under 20 minutes.
• Healthy ingredients – Packed with omega-3-rich salmon and bright citrus flavor.
• Versatile meal – Works with any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – I often buy the frozen farm raised salmon from Whole Foods and let it thaw before making.
• Butter – Melts into the salmon for rich, decadent flavor.
• Lemon (zest and juice) – Adds brightness and a pop of freshness.
• Garlic powder – my go to seasoning for fish!
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap butter with olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free version.
• Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for extra punch.
• Try lime instead of lemon for a different citrus twist.
• Add veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini to the sheet pan for a complete meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.

Step 3: Sprinkle salmon evenly with salt, garlic powder, and lemon zest.

Step 4: Distribute butter evenly over each fillet and top with a lemon slice.

Step 5: Bake for 12 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Tips and Notes

• Don’t overcook, salmon can dry out quickly.
• Use a zester or microplane for the best lemon zest texture.
• Add vegetables to the sheet pan for a one-pan dinner.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

What if I don’t like salmon?
This works great with cod, halibut, or trout.

Do I have to use butter?
No, olive oil or avocado oil will work just as well.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted asparagus and baby potatoes.
• Pair with a simple green salad.
• Add quinoa or rice for a heartier meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Place leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Warm gently in a 275°F oven for 10–12 minutes or until heated through.

Tips:
Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the salmon.