Sheet pan lemon garlic butter salmon is a simple, fresh, and flavorful meal that comes together with very little effort. The salmon fillets roast alongside a drizzle of zesty lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and rich buttery goodness, all baked on a single sheet pan for easy cleanup. It’s got just the right balance of tangy, buttery, and garlicky flavors that make the salmon shine.
I love making this salmon on busy nights when I want something tasty without fussing over multiple pots and pans. One of my favorite tricks is to toss in some fresh green beans or asparagus on the same pan while the salmon cooks—everything roasts perfectly together, soaking up those lemony, buttery juices. It’s a reliable go-to that feels a little fancy without the extra work.
This dish also pairs wonderfully with a simple side of rice or crusty bread to mop up the buttery sauce. Plus, the leftovers make delicious sandwiches or salads the next day. I always feel like I’m treating myself when I eat this, even though it’s so easy to make. It’s one of those recipes I come back to again and again because it tastes great and practically makes itself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best here, but frozen ones are fine if thawed fully. Skin on helps keep moisture, but skinless cooks faster.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds rich flavor, and fresh garlic gives a punch. For dairy-free, try olive oil and garlic powder instead.
Lemon: Thin lemon slices roast well and add brightness. You can substitute lemon zest if you want a stronger flavor without the slices.
Potatoes & Veggies: Baby potatoes roast nicely alongside salmon. Swap with other root veggies like carrots or with green beans or asparagus for a lighter touch.
Herbs & Spices: Parsley gives freshness but thyme or dill can work too. Paprika adds color and mild smokiness—feel free to skip or replace with chili powder for heat.
How Do I Get Tender, Flavorful Salmon with Crispy Veggies on One Pan?
Cooking salmon and veggies together means timing and placement are key:
- Even Sizing: Cut potatoes small enough so they cook through in the same time as the salmon.
- Use Foil: Lining your pan helps clean-up and prevents sticking.
- Butter Mixture: Mixing melted butter with garlic and spices and brushing it on the salmon keeps it moist and flavorful.
- Oven Temperature: Roasting at 400°F (200°C) cooks salmon perfectly in 12-15 mins. Too hot and it dries out; too low and veggies get soggy.
- Broil Finish: A quick broil adds a nice basil and caramelized top, but watch closely to avoid burning.
With these tips, you’ll get juicy, flaky salmon and tender veggies with that tasty buttery, lemon-garlic sauce coating everything.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sheet pan – big enough to fit salmon and veggies in a single layer for even cooking.
- Aluminum foil – makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking.
- Pastry brush – to spread the garlic butter evenly over the salmon.
- Sharp knife – for slicing lemon and trimming veggies cleanly.
- Mixing bowl – to combine butter, garlic, and seasonings quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for trout or cod for a milder fish that still pairs great with lemon butter.
- Add capers or olives for a briny twist that brightens up the buttery sauce.
- Mix in dill or basil instead of parsley for a different fresh herb note.
- Stir red pepper flakes into the butter for a gentle kick of heat.
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon and Sauce:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra lemon juice if desired)
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For The Vegetables:
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 bunch asparagus or green beans (optional), trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook. If you choose to broil at the end for a crispier top, add 1-2 extra minutes. Total time is roughly 25 minutes from start to finish, including prep and roasting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Veggies:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Toss the halved baby potatoes with ½ tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them on one side of the sheet pan so they roast evenly.
2. Arrange Salmon and Vegetables:
Place the salmon fillets on the other side of the sheet pan. If you’re using asparagus or green beans, add them alongside the potatoes or salmon for a complete meal.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the salmon fillets. Add a lemon slice on top of each fillet. Drizzle any remaining butter mixture over the veggies and potatoes.
4. Roast and Optional Broil:
Put the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through (it should flake easily with a fork) and the potatoes are tender. For an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon some of the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce from the pan over the salmon and vegetables on each plate. Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty, buttery, and lemony meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon—just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to avoid excess moisture that can affect roasting.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the garlic butter sauce and chop the veggies a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble everything just before roasting for the freshest taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover salmon and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the salmon moist and flaky.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Salmon?
This dish is great on its own since it comes with potatoes and veggies, but you can also add a light salad, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
