How long to oven bake salmon for?

For a standard baked salmon recipe , bake salmon at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes . Thinner fillets may be done in as little as 10 minutes, while thicker cuts could need up to 18 minutes. The fish is ready when it flakes easily and turns opaque in the center. Use a meat thermometer if needed—internal temperature should read 130–135°F before resting.

Is it better to bake salmon at 350 or 400?

Both temperatures work, but it depends on your goal: 350°F : Ideal for gentle, even cooking. Great for baking with foil or when cooking alongside vegetables. 400°F : Perfect for a faster bake with a crispier top. It enhances flavor and keeps the fish juicy without overcooking. Most pros—including Gordon Ramsay—recommend 400°F for a balanced finish in any baked salmon recipe .

Should salmon be covered or uncovered when baking?

Covering your salmon with foil locks in moisture, making it softer and more delicate—especially helpful if baking at lower temperatures like 350°F. Baking uncovered allows the top to crisp slightly and concentrate the marinade flavors. Pro tip: Start with foil on, then uncover for the final few minutes if you want the best of both textures.

How does Gordon Ramsay cook salmon in the oven?

Gordon Ramsay’s baked salmon recipe includes seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon zest, then marinating with olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill. He bakes the salmon at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, often finishing under the broiler for a golden crust. His approach emphasizes balance—rich flavors, simple prep, and a clean presentation.

Baked Salmon Recipe: The Best 5-Star Dinner You’ll Ever Make

Name: Easy Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred); 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs de Provence); 1 lemon (½ juiced, ½ sliced); Salt to taste; Cracked black pepper to taste; Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Description

Easy lemon garlic baked salmon—flaky, healthy, and ready in 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs de Provence)
1 lemon (½ juiced, ½ sliced)
Salt to taste
Cracked black pepper to taste
Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.
Pat salmon fillets dry using paper towels and place them skin-side down on the prepared sheet.
Season each fillet generously with salt and black pepper.
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice.
Spoon the mixture evenly over the fillets, rubbing it gently into the top and sides.
Top each piece of salmon with a thin lemon slice.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. For a crispy top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Internal temperature should reach 130–135°F when removed from the oven and rest to reach 145°F.
Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist.
Pair with quinoa, roasted asparagus, or mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 290 kcal
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 70mg