How To Make Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Salmon and Asparagus

This elegant and flavorful dish combines the richness of salmon with the fresh, crisp texture of asparagus, all brought together with a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels special enough for company, yet is incredibly simple to prepare. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal cleanup and quick cooking time, making it a go-to for a healthy and delicious dinner.

Recipe: Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Salmon and Asparagus

Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12-15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, cut into 4 equal portions
• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, half sliced, half cut into wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange Ingredients: Place the salmon fillets down the center of the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the asparagus spears in a single layer on either side of the salmon.
4. Sauce and Season: Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon and asparagus. Toss the asparagus gently to coat. Top each salmon fillet with a slice of lemon.
5. Roast: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the salmon and asparagus.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from drying out. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
• Asparagus Thickness: If your asparagus spears are very thick, consider giving them a 5-minute head start in the oven before adding the salmon.
• Even Coating: Ensure the garlic butter is evenly distributed to flavor every bite.

Variations and Customization

• Add Potatoes: For a more substantial meal, add baby potatoes to the pan. Quarter them and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes before adding the salmon and asparagus.
• Different Veggies: This recipe also works well with other quick-cooking vegetables like broccoli florets or green beans.
• Herb Variations: Try other fresh or dried herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary in the garlic butter sauce.