Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to bake perfectly moist and flavorful Garlic Butter Salmon every time. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy, even for beginner cooks.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures the salmon cooks quickly and stays moist. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier, while foil is also a good alternative.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh dill. Use a fork or spoon to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until well combined and creamy. The softened butter will make it easy to blend everything smoothly.
3. Season the Salmon Fillets: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step helps to remove excess moisture, allowing the garlic butter to adhere better and the salmon to bake properly. Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavor in the salmon. If using, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the salmon for a touch of heat.
4. Apply the Garlic Butter: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the top of each salmon fillet. Ensure each fillet is nicely coated with the flavorful garlic butter. This butter will melt during baking, infusing the salmon with incredible flavor and keeping it moist.
5. Add Lemon Juice and Lemon Slices: Drizzle the fresh lemon juice evenly over the garlic butter-coated salmon fillets. The lemon juice adds brightness and acidity that complements the richness of the butter and the flavor of the salmon. Arrange thin slices of lemon over the top of each salmon fillet. The lemon slices will infuse additional citrusy flavor into the salmon as it bakes and also look beautiful when served.
6. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes. The salmon is done when it is opaque and flakes easily when gently pressed with a fork at its thickest point. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the salmon dry.
7. Optional Broiling for Crispy Top (Optional but Recommended): For a slightly browned and crispier top, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Turn the oven to broil (high heat) and watch the salmon closely. Broiling can quickly burn the butter and garlic, so keep a close eye on it and broil for just a minute or two until the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
8. Rest Briefly and Serve: Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful salmon. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or dill, if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly baked Garlic Butter Salmon!