Learn how long to cook salmon at 400 degrees in the oven for tender, delicious, flakey salmon fillets. This simple baked salmon recipe can be prepared in minutes for a fast and easy dinner.

 

The best temperature to bake salmon in the oven

Salmon is a delicious, flavorful fish that makes a wonderful, easy dinner. It can be cooked at different temperatures but 400 degrees F is one of the best temperatures to use in order to get tender, delicious fish.

Cooking the the salmon until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees F and then letting it rest to allow the temperature to come up to 140-145 degrees will make perfect baked salmon.

How long to bake salmon at 400 degrees

One pound of salmon will take about 15 minutes to bake to medium, 145 degrees F.

A smaller piece of salmon, 5-7 ounces, will take 11-12 minutes.

A whole piece of salmon could take 40-60 minutes depending on the thickness of the fish.

Ingredients needed for baked salmon

• Salmon – You can use individual cut salmon fillets or one large piece of salmon.
• Olive oil – Helps to cook the salmon.
• Lemon juice – Adds fresh, tangy flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Simple seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the salmon.

How to cook salmon in the oven at 400 F

Step one: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Place the salmon on the prepared pan, skin side down.

Step two: Mix together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Brush over the salmon filets. Add a little extra salt and pepper.

Step three: Bake salmon about 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees F. Remove from oven and let the salmon rest and temperature come up to 145 degrees fahrenheit.

Recipe tips

• Let you salmon sit out at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
• Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
• Thicker cuts of salmon are harder to overcook.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the proper internal temperature. Make sure to place it in the thickest part of the fish.
• I recommend checking the internal temperature after 12 minutes of cooking to see if it needs to be baked longer.
• If you would like a richer flavor, substitute olive oil with 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
• Try adding a salmon sauce like dill sauce, butter sauce, and more to add extra flavor.

What to serve with salmon

There are many wonderful side dishes to serve with salmon like asparagus, salad, potatoes and more. This list of 31 side dishes for salmon will help you find a great pairing.

How to store baked salmon

Store: Salmon will stay good if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

FAQ’s

If you have any questions on this easy salmon recipe, please be sure to leave a comment.

More easy seafood recipes

• Salmon dip – Simple, creamy dip made with canned salmon.
• Salmon salad – Similar to tuna salad, this salmon salad makes a great lunch.
• Shrimp scampi – Copycat Olive Garden shrimp scampi.
• 44 Shrimp recipes – Some of the best shrimp recipes around.