how long to bake salmon at 350

Looking for the perfect recipe? Discover how long to bake salmon at 350°F for a juicy, flavorful dish with minimal effort and maximum taste!

5 from 1 vote

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 30

Total Time 35

Course dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 230 kcal

🥩 Salmon Fillets 4-6 oz each – Choose fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw completely before baking.
🫒 Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Helps lock in moisture and adds a subtle richness to the fish.
🍋 Fresh Lemon Juice – Enhances the natural flavors with a bright citrusy touch.
🧂 Salt & Black Pepper – Simple but essential for bringing out the best in salmon.
🌿 Garlic Powder or Fresh Minced Garlic – Adds a depth of savory flavor.
🥄 Paprika or Smoked Paprika – Gives a hint of warmth and a beautiful golden color.
🌱 Fresh Herbs Dill, Parsley, or Thyme – Optional, but they elevate the dish with fresh, aromatic notes.

🔥 Honey or Maple Syrup – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
🧄 Soy Sauce or Dijon Mustard – For an umami boost in marinades or glazes.
🌶 Red Pepper Flakes – If you love a little heat in your dish.
🧈 Lemon Butter Sauce – A classic pairing for a rich restaurant-style finish.

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures even cooking and helps the salmon develop the perfect texture. If using a convection oven, reduce the temperature slightly to 325°F to prevent drying out.

Line a baking sheet or a shallow dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
If you prefer extra moisture, you can place the salmon on a sheet of foil and fold the edges to create a sealed packet.

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.
Brush each fillet with olive oil or melted butter for a rich, golden finish.
Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a balanced flavor.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to enhance the fish’s natural taste.
If using fresh herbs like dill or parsley, sprinkle them on now for an aromatic touch.

Place the seasoned fillets in the preheated oven.
Baking times vary based on thickness:
1-inch thick fillets: Bake for 20-22 minutes.
Whole salmon side: Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Foil-wrapped salmon: Reduce time to 18-20 minutes for extra moisture.
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (measured at the thickest part).

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Garnish with extra lemon slices, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of lemon butter sauce for a finishing touch.
Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.