Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Bake is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. This dish combines tender, flaky salmon fillets with crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that melts into every bite as it bakes. The oven does most of the work, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights, healthy meal prep, or elegant yet effortless dinners.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Everything bakes together in one dish, allowing the salmon juices, garlic, butter, and herbs to mingle beautifully. The result is a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that feels special yet is incredibly easy to prepare.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• One-pan, oven-baked convenience
• High-protein and nutrient-dense
• Naturally low-carb and gluten-free
• Perfect for weeknights and meal prep
• Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for beginners

If you want a dish that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, this is an absolute must-try.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-inspired
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18–22 minutes
• Total Time: About 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approx. 380–420 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Salmon and Broccoli

• 4 salmon fillets (about 150 g / 5 oz each)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Chili flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the garlic butter sauce by mixing melted butter, garlic, lemon, and seasonings.
2. Arrange salmon and broccoli in a baking dish and season lightly.
3. Pour garlic butter sauce evenly over everything.
4. Bake until salmon is flaky and broccoli is tender.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

• Place broccoli florets in the baking dish.
• Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.

Step 3: Add the Salmon

• Place salmon fillets among the broccoli.
• Season salmon lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, and chili flakes.

Step 5: Bake

• Pour garlic butter sauce evenly over salmon and broccoli.
• Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

• Let rest for 2–3 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve hot with:

• Steamed rice or quinoa
• Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
• Crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce

For a lighter option, enjoy it on its own or with a fresh green salad.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh salmon for best texture and flavor.
• Avoid overcooking to keep salmon moist.
• Cut broccoli into even sizes for uniform cooking.
• Add a splash of white wine for extra depth.

Variations

Creamy Version

Add ¼ cup heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce for a richer dish.

Asian-Inspired

Replace lemon juice with soy sauce and add ginger and sesame oil.

Spicy Garlic Butter

Increase chili flakes or add hot sauce.

Keto-Friendly

Serve as-is with extra butter and lemon.

Vegetable Swap

Use asparagus, green beans, or cauliflower instead of broccoli.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked salmon for up to 1 month (broccoli may soften slightly).
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F) or microwave in short intervals.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Q: How do I know salmon is done?
It should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter.

Q: Can I add cheese?
Yes, sprinkle Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Salmon and Broccoli Bake is a perfect example of how easy cooking can still be incredibly delicious. With flaky salmon, vibrant broccoli, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish delivers comfort, nutrition, and elegance all in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite.