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Quick Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil: Easy 15-Minute Dinner

garlic butter salmon in foil - featured image

This quick garlic butter salmon in foil is a low-effort, high-reward weeknight dinner that comes together in just 15 minutes. The foil traps steam and butter to create a rich, flavorful sauce, resulting in perfectly moist, flaky salmon with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 oz salmon fillets (1-inch thick)
  • 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium lemon (juice and zest)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with a large piece of aluminum foil (about 18 inches long).
  2. Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest (about 1 teaspoon), and red pepper flakes (if using). Mash together with a fork until well combined.
  4. Place seasoned salmon fillet in the center of the foil. Spoon garlic butter mixture over the top, spreading evenly. Squeeze half of the lemon over the fish.
  5. Fold foil over the salmon, crimping edges tightly to create a sealed packet, leaving a little room for steam circulation.
  6. Place foil packet on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature 145°F/63°C).
  7. Carefully open the foil packet (watch for hot steam). Garnish with fresh parsley and a final squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately, spooning buttery garlic sauce over the top.

Notes

For a slightly caramelized top, open the foil packet for the last 2 minutes of cooking and switch to broil. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or ghee.

Nutrition

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