Creating this Easy Garlic Butter Salmon is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed delicious and perfectly cooked meal every time:

1. Preheat Your Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the salmon cooks through evenly without drying out. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents the salmon from sticking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small, microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals or gently over low heat on the stovetop. Be careful not to let the butter brown. Once melted, add the minced garlic to the melted butter. If using the microwave, microwave for another 30 seconds to lightly cook the garlic and infuse the butter. If using the stovetop, simmer gently for about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Burnt garlic will taste bitter. Remove from heat.
3. Season the Salmon Fillets: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a slight crust on the surface if you choose to broil later. Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; salmon can handle a good amount of salt.
4. Drizzle with Garlic Butter & Lemon Juice: Evenly pour the prepared garlic butter mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring each fillet is nicely coated. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon, distributing it evenly. The lemon juice not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the salmon moist during cooking.
5. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet with the salmon in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary slightly depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. A good rule of thumb is about 4-6 minutes of baking time per half-inch of thickness. The salmon is done when it transitions from translucent to opaque and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Broil for Extra Color (Optional): For a slightly browned top and extra visual appeal, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it as it can burn quickly under the broiler. Broiling is not necessary for perfectly cooked salmon, but it adds a nice touch.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color. Serve immediately while warm, allowing your guests to enjoy the tender, flavorful salmon at its best.