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When I need a dependable, flavorful dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying, I turn to baked salmon. It’s one of the easiest proteins to work with—tender, quick to cook, and it pairs well with just about anything. Whether I’m going for something fresh and lemony or rich and comforting, baked salmon never lets me down.
This list pulls together some of my favorite ways to bake salmon, from clean and simple recipes to more indulgent, flavor-packed options. I’ve made these for weeknight meals, date nights, and even dinner parties, and they always get great feedback.
Each recipe includes tips I’ve picked up along the way to help you get the most flavor and the best texture—because overcooked salmon is a real bummer. If you’ve got a fillet in the fridge and want to bake something that’s big on flavor but low on fuss, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.
1. Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon
This is my go-to when I want something bright and simple. I coat the salmon with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley. It bakes up juicy with just the right amount of zing.
Author’s Note
Use lemon zest in addition to juice—it adds a deeper citrus flavor without making the dish watery.
Get the Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe.
2. Honey Mustard Baked Salmon
The sweet and tangy glaze made with honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic is what makes this recipe shine. It forms a light crust as it bakes, and the flavor pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or rice.
Author’s Note
Brush on half the glaze before baking, and save the rest to brush on during the last 5 minutes for more flavor.
Get the Honey Mustard Baked Salmon recipe.
3. Baked Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce
I serve this one when I want something comforting but still light. After baking the salmon, I top it with a quick sauce made of Greek yogurt, lemon, and fresh dill. It feels fancy but is actually super easy.
Author’s Note
Let the sauce sit in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before serving—it gives the flavors time to blend.
Get the Baked Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce recipe.
4. Maple Glazed Baked Salmon
For a sweeter option, I mix maple syrup with a bit of soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper. The glaze thickens in the oven and gives the salmon a glossy finish and deep flavor.
Author’s Note
Line your baking pan with parchment paper—this glaze can get sticky, and clean-up will be a breeze.
Get the Maple Glazed Baked Salmon recipe.
5. Baked Salmon with Pesto Crust
I spread a thick layer of basil pesto over the salmon and baked it until it formed a flavorful, herb-packed crust. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but barely takes any effort.
Author’s Note
Choose a thicker pesto or stir in some grated parmesan—this helps it stick better and bake up golden on top.
Get the Baked Salmon with Pesto Crust recipe.
6. Garlic Parmesan Baked Salmon
This one’s rich, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. I mix grated parmesan, garlic, and breadcrumbs into a paste and spread it over the salmon before baking. It creates a savory crust that’s golden and crisp on top.
Author’s Note
Broil the salmon for the last 2 minutes to make the parmesan crust even more golden and toasty.
Get the Atomic Habits for Procrastinators recipe.
7. Teriyaki Baked Salmon
I make a quick homemade teriyaki sauce with soy, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic, and let the salmon sit in it before baking. The glaze thickens in the oven and gives the fish that sticky-sweet umami flavor.
Author’s Note
Reduce the extra marinade in a pan and spoon it over the baked salmon for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
Get the Teriyaki Baked Salmon recipe.
8. Baked Salmon with Tomatoes and Onions
For this one, I layer sliced cherry tomatoes and red onions on top of the salmon. As it bakes, the vegetables soften and release their juices, flavoring the fish. It’s light and colorful, perfect for summer.
Author’s Note
Drizzle everything with olive oil and balsamic vinegar before baking—it gives the veggies a nice roasted finish.
Get the Baked Salmon with Tomatoes and Onions recipe.
9. Mediterranean Baked Salmon
I top the salmon with chopped olives, tomatoes, red onion, and a little crumbled feta before baking. It’s full of bold, salty, fresh flavors and works great with couscous or a green salad.
Author’s Note
Use kalamata olives for a deeper flavor and sprinkle a little fresh oregano right before serving.
Get the Mediterranean Baked Salmon recipe.
10. Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter
I mix softened butter with garlic, parsley, lemon zest, and thyme, and spread it over the salmon before baking. It melts into the fish, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Author’s Note
Chill the butter mixture for 10 minutes so it holds together better when you spread it on.
Get the Baked Salmon with Lemon Herb Butter recipe.
11. Brown Sugar and Soy Baked Salmon
This is one of those sweet-savory combos that always gets compliments. I whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic and brush it over the salmon. The sugar helps it caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Author’s Note
Bake uncovered to help the glaze thicken and create that shiny, sticky surface.
Get the Brown Sugar and Soy Baked Salmon recipe.
12. Baked Salmon with Spinach and Artichokes
This feels like spinach artichoke dip met salmon in the best way. I spread a creamy mixture of spinach, artichokes, and cream cheese over the salmon before baking. It’s rich and satisfying.
Author’s Note
Use thawed frozen spinach and press out all the liquid—this keeps the topping from getting watery.
Get the Baked Salmon with Spinach and Artichokes recipe.
13. Dijon Crusted Baked Salmon
I brush the salmon with Dijon mustard, then press a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and a bit of olive oil on top. It bakes into a crispy, golden topping with tangy flavor underneath.
Author’s Note
Lightly toast the breadcrumbs before using—they stay crisp longer and have more depth of flavor.
Get the Dijon Crusted Baked Salmon recipe.
14. Foil-Baked Salmon with Veggies
This is my no-fuss, all-in-one meal. I wrap salmon with sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and onions in foil with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. It steams in its own juices and turns out tender every time.
Author’s Note
Seal the foil tightly so none of the steam escapes—it’s the key to juicy salmon and soft veggies.
Get the Foil-Baked Salmon with Veggies recipe.
15. Baked Cajun Salmon
For a spicy kick, I coat the salmon in Cajun seasoning, a little brown sugar, and olive oil. It bakes up with a bold crust and juicy center—great with rice or mashed potatoes.
Author’s Note
Mix your own Cajun blend so you can control the heat level. A bit of smoked paprika really boosts the flavor.
Get the Baked Cajun Salmon recipe.
16. Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Pasta
I serve this flaky baked salmon over pasta tossed with a creamy lemon-garlic sauce. It’s cozy, bright, and satisfying without feeling heavy—perfect for date night or family dinner.
Author’s Note
Add fresh parsley or basil at the end to balance the richness of the sauce.
