Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter and Roasted Veggies: A 30-Minute Sheet Pan Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter and Roasted Veggies

When hungry evenings demand a quick, wholesome, and delicious solution, a one-pan dinner is a lifesaver. This baked salmon with garlic butter and roasted veggies is a standout in the world of easy dinner recipes: juicy salmon, golden-tender vegetables, and a garlicky, lemony butter sauce all come together in a single sheet pan. Not only is this meal family-friendly and oh-so-flavorful, but it can be on your table in just 30 minutes—cleanup included. Plus, baked salmon is packed with omega-3s and protein, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
With endless options for swapping out veggies and seasonings, this meal is endlessly adaptable for dietary preferences and what’s in season. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even impressing friends on a busy night. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Ingredient List

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into thick strips
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, basil, and oregano)
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 4-5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap salmon for thick-cut tofu or portobello mushrooms. Use the same butter and seasoning for great flavor.
• Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your butter and seasoning blends if needed.
• Different Veggies: Try asparagus, green beans, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or snap peas.
• Butter Substitute: Use a vegan butter or olive oil if you’re dairy-free.
• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or a little smoked paprika for extra heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep and Preheat

   • Explanation: Getting your oven and sheet pan ready ensures even roasting and prevents sticking.
   • Action: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up.
   • Pro Tip: If you want extra-crispy veggies, place the sheet pan in the oven to preheat for 5 minutes before adding vegetables.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

   • Explanation: Cutting veggies to uniform sizes helps them cook evenly. Tossing in oil, salt, pepper, and herbs adds flavor right from the start.
   • Action:
     1. Add potatoes, carrots, broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini to a large mixing bowl.
     2. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Toss to coat everything well.
   • Pro Tip: Cut carrots and potatoes a little smaller than other veggies to help them cook through in 30 minutes.

3. Start Roasting the Veggies

   • Explanation: Potatoes and root veggies need a head start so everything is perfectly done at the same time.
   • Action: Spread the seasoned veggies in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Roast for 12-15 minutes while you prep the salmon.
   • Pro Tip: Avoid crowding; leave a little space between veggies for maximum caramelization.

4. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

   • Explanation: Garlic butter brings rich flavor and helps salmon caramelize under high heat.
   • Action:
     1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and chopped parsley.
     2. Stir well until fully blended.
   • Pro Tip: For even more citrus punch, toss in a little extra lemon zest or a dash of lemon pepper seasoning.

5. Add the Salmon to the Pan

   • Explanation: The timing here ensures salmon isn’t overcooked while the veggies finish roasting.
   • Action:
     1. Remove sheet pan from oven. Push veggies to the edges to make room for the salmon fillets in the center.
     2. Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
   • Pro Tip: If using skin-on salmon, place skin-side down for crispier results and easier serving.

6. Brush with Garlic Butter and Finish Roasting

   • Explanation: Coating the salmon in garlic butter keeps it moist and infuses flavor as it bakes.
   • Action:
     1. Spoon or brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each salmon fillet and drizzle some over the veggies.
     2. Return the sheet pan to the oven and bake for 12-15 more minutes, or until salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (internal temp should be 125-130°F for medium).
   • Pro Tip: For a golden finish, broil the salmon and veggies for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning!

7. Serve and Garnish

   • Explanation: A fresh sprinkle of herbs and a squeeze of lemon finish this meal beautifully and add brightness.
   • Action:
     1. Carefully transfer salmon and veggies onto plates.
     2. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
   • Pro Tip: Pair with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic butter. Yum!

Quick Tips & FAQ

• Can I use frozen salmon?
  Absolutely. Thaw thoroughly and pat dry before seasoning and baking.
• Which vegetables work best?
  Root veggies like carrots and potatoes need a longer start. Tender veggies like bell pepper, asparagus, or green beans can go in at the same time as the salmon for even cooking.
• Can I make this ahead?
  Yes! Prep veggies and salmon on the pan, cover, and refrigerate up to 1 day ahead. Roast when ready to serve. Leftovers reheat well in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
• What if I don’t have parchment or foil?
  You can grease the pan with olive oil or nonstick spray for easier cleanup.
• Can I swap salmon for another fish?
  Yes! Try cod or trout and adjust roasting time as needed (thinner fillets cook faster).

More Helpful Tips

• Don’t overbake salmon—check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
• Make it dairy-free using vegan butter or all olive oil.
• Love spice? Add Cajun, jerk, or your favorite rub to the butter mixture for a twist.
• Double the garlic if you’re a garlic lover—it’s hard to overdo it here.

Why This Recipe Works

• Fast & Fuss-Free: One sheet pan means minimal cleanup and everything cooks at the same temperature.
• Customizable: Swap veggies based on season or what’s in your fridge—excellent for avoiding food waste.
• Healthy & Satisfying: Salmon is loaded with heart-healthy omega-3s, and roasting keeps vegetables vibrant and packed with nutrients.
• Impressive Presentation: Beautiful, colorful veggies and golden salmon make even a rushed weeknight dinner feel special.

Serving Suggestions and Sides

• Add a loaf of warm crusty bread or a serving of wild rice to soak up all that garlicky-lemon butter goodness.
• For a lighter meal, serve with a simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Top with toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch and extra flavor.
• Make the sauce go further: Whisk extra lemon juice and olive oil into the melted butter drippings for an instant vinaigrette to drizzle over everything.

Ideas for Leftovers

• Flake leftover salmon over mixed greens for a hearty next-day salad, drizzled with any extra garlic butter or vinaigrette.
• Add roasted veggies and salmon to a wrap with hummus or Greek yogurt for a fast, healthy lunch.
• Mash veggies into a hash and top with a poached or fried egg for an easy brunch.

Adaptations for Every Home Cook

• For Big Families: Double the recipe on two pans, rotating halfway through for even roasting.
• For One or Two: Halve all ingredients for a smaller batch or prep extra for lunches.
• For Meal Prep: Bake as directed, portion into containers, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.
• For Entertaining: Arrange salmon and veggies artfully on a platter, garnish with lemon slices and parsley for a beautiful centerpiece.

Conclusion: Make This Sheet Pan Salmon Part of Your Weekly Routine

This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter and Roasted Veggies is a true weeknight hero—quick to prep, beautiful to serve, and endlessly flexible for your family’s tastes and seasonal produce. Sheet pan dinners like this are what make healthy eating sustainable, simple, and (let’s be honest) incredibly delicious.

Let’s take the first step together—start your journey toward easier, tastier dinners today! And once you’ve tried this sheet pan dinner, let us know in the comments: Did you love it? Did you swap in any other veggies or seasonings? Did your family ask for seconds? What would you add to make it your own? We read and appreciate every message and suggestion. Happy cooking!