Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is one of those easy meals that feels like a little treat after a busy day. The salmon fillets come out tender and flaky, kissed with bright lemon juice and rich garlic butter that makes every bite flavorful and comforting. Cooking everything on one pan means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
I love making this when I want dinner on the table quickly but still fresh and tasty. The garlic butter sauce is super simple to whip up, and the lemon adds a perfect zing that keeps the salmon from feeling heavy. I usually add some veggies right on the same pan, so everything roasts together and picks up those yummy flavors.
My favorite way to serve this salmon is with a side of rice or a light salad, soaking up that buttery sauce with every forkful. It’s always a hit with family and friends, and I find myself coming back to this recipe whenever I want something cozy but not fussy. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze, which always makes me happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best for this recipe. Choose skin-on if you like crispy skin. If you can’t find fresh, thawed frozen salmon is fine. For a milder flavor, try trout or cod as alternatives.
Lemon: Lemon adds a fresh, bright flavor that balances the butter. If lemons aren’t available, lime can be a zesty substitute. Using both lemon juice and slices helps boost flavor and presentation.
Garlic & Butter: Fresh garlic gives a sharp, aromatic punch. Minced or grated garlic works well. For butter, unsalted is ideal so you can control salt levels. Olive oil can replace butter for a lighter but still tasty twist.
Asparagus & Cherry Tomatoes: These vegetables roast quickly and pair beautifully with salmon. Feel free to swap asparagus for green beans or broccolini. Cherry tomatoes can be replaced with grape tomatoes or small bell pepper pieces.
How Can You Get Moist, Flaky Salmon Without Overcooking?
Salmon cooks quickly, and hitting just the right time is key to moist, tender fish. Here are some tips:
- Even Thickness: Choose fillets that are similar in size so they cook evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium doneness.
- Watch the Time: Usually 12-15 minutes at 400°F works, but ovens vary.
- Let It Rest: After baking, rest the salmon a few minutes to let juices redistribute.
- Optional Broil: A quick broil at the end adds nice color without drying out the fish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large sheet pan – perfect for cooking salmon and veggies all at once for easy cleanup.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning up simpler.
- Small mixing bowl – to whisk together the lemon garlic butter sauce easily.
- Basting brush or spoon – to spread the butter sauce evenly over the salmon and vegetables.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing lemon and trimming asparagus.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap asparagus and cherry tomatoes for broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers for a different veggie mix that still roasts well.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a gentle heat kick.
- Try topping salmon with crumbled feta or goat cheese after baking for a tangy finish.
- Use fresh dill or basil instead of parsley for a different fresh herb twist that complements salmon.
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon and Vegetables:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or off
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus extra for juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time needed is about 20-25 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the salmon, vegetables, and garlic butter sauce, then 12-15 minutes baking everything on one sheet pan. This makes it a quick and easy dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Sheet Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, juice from half the lemon, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavorful sauce to coat the salmon and vegetables.
3. Arrange Salmon and Vegetables
Place the salmon fillets in the center of the prepared sheet pan. Arrange the trimmed asparagus and cherry tomatoes around the salmon.
4. Season and Coat
Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and tomatoes, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Brush the lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon fillets, and drizzle a little over the vegetables as well. Top each salmon fillet with a lemon slice.
5. Bake and Optional Broil
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender. If you want a slightly charred top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking—just watch carefully to avoid burning.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the salmon rest a few minutes. Spoon any pan juices over the salmon and vegetables for extra flavor before serving. Enjoy your meal warm, paired with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture on the sheet pan.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers work well roasted alongside the salmon. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed so the veggies are tender but not overcooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover salmon and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the fish moist and flavorful.
Is It Okay to Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can mix the lemon garlic butter sauce a few hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick stir before brushing it on the salmon.