Buttery Baked Salmon with Crispy Skin
This buttery baked salmon with crispy skin is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers rich taste with minimal effort. The salmon is lightly seasoned and coated with melted butter, then baked on a preheated pan to help achieve that irresistible sizzling skin. The result is tender, flaky salmon infused with buttery goodness and warm spices.
Seasoned with a blend of salt, black pepper, grill seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon pepper, this recipe highlights the natural flavor of salmon without overpowering it. A quick finish under the broiler caramelizes the top, creating a beautifully golden surface. It pairs perfectly with vegetables, rice, or potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Buttery Baked Salmon with Crispy Skin
Course: MainCuisine: American, FusionDifficulty: EasyServings
3
servingsPrep time
10
minutesCooking time
16
minutesCalories
400
kcalIngredients
Salmon fillets (amount as desired)
Melted butter (enough to coat salmon)
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Grill seasoning (to taste)
Paprika (to taste)
Garlic powder (to taste)
Lemon pepper (small amount)
- Optional side (mentioned)
Green beans
Soy sauce
Butter
Italian seasoning
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes
Brown sugar (small amount)
Directions
- Prepare the Salmon
Start by making sure the salmon is fully thawed. Pat it dry thoroughly with a napkin to remove excess moisture—this is key for achieving crispy skin. Place the salmon on a plate and drizzle melted butter evenly over the top. - Season the Salmon
Lightly season the salmon with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Add grill seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and a small amount of lemon pepper. Gently press the seasoning into the flesh with your hands so it adheres well. Flip the salmon over and season the skin side as well, using the same spices if desired - Preheat the Baking Pan
Place a baking pan or tray in the oven and heat it for about 10 minutes until very hot. This step helps create a sizzling effect when the salmon is placed on the pan, encouraging crispy skin. - Bake the Salmon
Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and place the salmon skin-side down. Return it to the oven and bake for about 10–12 minutes, until the salmon is mostly cooked through and flaky. - Broil for a Caramelized Finish
Switch the oven to broil and cook the salmon for an additional 3–4 minutes. This step caramelizes the top and enhances the buttery flavor. Remove once the top looks lightly golden and glossy. - Serve
Let the salmon rest briefly, then serve hot. Enjoy it with green beans, rice, mashed potatoes, or any side of your choice.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the crispiest salmon skin, make sure the fish is fully thawed and completely dry before seasoning and baking.