Today, I’m sharing the best-baked salmon recipe in the world. And I’ve tried soooo many! This is my most requested dinner with my private chef clients!
Anyone can do this, and it turns out that the easiest way is the best way. The art of cooking salmon to perfection is a skill worth boasting about. So, grab your apron, and let's get cooking!
How to Cook Salmon the Best Way:
First things first, let's talk about the basics of cooking salmon the best way possible. Whether you're baking, broiling, or grilling, the key is to preserve the natural flavors while ensuring it's cooked to perfection. So the only seasoning I use is salt and a little pepper, that’s right. Salt.
Easy Sauces For Salmon:
But hold on, I do share 7 fabulous sauces to go with this simple salmon if you are feeling saucy. Everything from a creamy sauce for salmon, dill sauce for salmon to lemon caper to brown sugar teriyaki sauce. They are all listed on the recipe!
Also place in a baking pan or baking sheet and spray liberally with cooking spray so it doesn’t stick.
Now for cooking salmon. Baking and broiling are both great, but I prefer BROILING. For those who crave a crisp, caramelized exterior with a tender, flaky interior, broiling is the way to go. But I also share how to bake salmon in foil as well.
HOW TO BROIL SALMON:
Preheat your broiler on high and place your seasoned salmon fillets on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with foil. (Don’t use parchment; it will burn. Don’t ask me how I know. Haha.)
PRO-TIP: Fold under the thin part of the salmon file so it cooks evenly and no parts are overcooked. See the video below.
PIN IT
How Long to Broil Salmon:
Depending on the thickness, broil on the top rack for approximately 6-10 minutes.
But keep an eye on it because all ovens are different. If salmon becomes well browned on top before it is cooked enough in the center, switch off the broiler and set the oven to 425°F (220°C), then continue cooking until done (this shouldn't take more than 1 to 2 minutes longer). Your salmon will emerge from the oven with a tantalizing golden crust that's sure to impress.
PRO TIP: I use a thermometer and cook mine to exactly 125 degrees. But depending on how you like your salmon, you will want to see this chart below. A thermometer is the only way I can ensure the fish is COOKED PERFECTLY. I’ve been to the best restaurants and have had over-cooked salmon. Why? No thermometer.
How to use a Thermometer in a Salmon Foil Pack:
Insert your wireless oven-safe thermometer probe into the thickest part of the salmon. Wrap the foil around the salmon so that the fillet is completely covered. Make sure to leave a hole for the thermometer to protrude out through the foil.
Oven Baked Salmon Temperature Chart:
Pro TIP: The salmon will continue to rise in temp after it comes out of the oven.
At 115° to 125°F your salmon is medium rare-midum.
At 125° to 140°F you are beginning to enter medium to well-done territory.
At 140°F and above, your salmon has reached its limit. From here on out, it's just going to get chalkier and dryer.
How Long to Bake Salmon at 450:
Baking salmon at 450°F in foil. Bake for 4 to 5 minutes per half-inch thickness of salmon.
Baking time depends on the thickness of your salmon, as determined by the thickest part of the salmon fillet. For every half-inch of salmon, roast 4 to 5 minutes — 4 minutes will give you salmon that is still a touch rare, 5 minutes will thoroughly cook it. But all ovens are different so use a thermometer so you know when it reaches your desired temperature.
How Long to Bake Salmon at 425:
Bake for 4 to 6 minutes per half-inch thickness of salmon.
Baking time depends on the thickness of your salmon, as determined by the thickest part of the salmon fillet. For every half-inch of salmon, roast 4 to 6 minutes — 4 minutes will give you salmon that is still a touch rare, 6 minutes will thoroughly cook it. But all ovens are different so use a thermometer so you know when it reaches your desired temperature.
400 degrees, My Preferred Baking Temperature - How Long to Bake Salmon at 400:
If you prefer a slightly lower temperature, baking salmon at 400°F is also a fantastic option.
Bake for 5 to 7 minutes per half-inch thickness of salmon: Baking time depends on the thickness of your salmon, as determined by the thickest part of the salmon fillet.
Four minutes will give you salmon that is still a touch rare, 7 minutes will thoroughly cook it. But all ovens are different so use a thermometer to know exactly when it reaches your desired temperature.
