There is nothing I love more than a dinner that feels fancy but takes absolute zero effort to throw together. That is exactly why this Easy Salmon Steaks with Dill recipe has become a total staple in my kitchen! It is buttery, flaky, and honestly, it saves me on those chaotic weeknights when I want something nutritious without a sink full of dishes. Trust me, once you smell that dill and butter hitting the hot oven, you will wonder why you haven't been making this every week.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 16 oz (454g) salmon fillets (approx. 4 steaks)
- 2 tbsp (30ml) salted butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried dill weed
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (205ºC) and ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center.
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the 16 oz (454g) of salmon fillets inside the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are spaced out and not overcrowding the pan.
- Brush the 2 tbsp (30ml) of melted butter evenly over the tops of the salmon fillets to act as a binder for the spices.
- In a small bowl, mix the 1 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp onion powder, 0.5 tsp pepper, and salt, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C).
- Remove the Easy Salmon Steaks with Dill from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter immediately to serve warm.
Nutritional Information
Here is the estimated nutrition per serving based on the ingredients listed (1/4 of the recipe).
- Calories: 295 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Sodium: 350 mg
Chef’s Pro Tips for the Perfect Salmon
- Pat It Dry: Before adding your butter or seasoning, take a paper towel and gently pat the salmon fillets dry. Removing excess moisture ensures the butter sticks better and prevents the fish from steaming, giving you a better texture.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Let your salmon sit on the counter for about 10–15 minutes before baking. Cooking cold fish straight from the fridge often leads to uneven cooking, with the outside drying out before the center is done.
- Watch for the "White Stuff" (Albumin): If you see a lot of white protein bubbling up on the sides of your salmon, it is a sign it might be slightly overcooking. Pull it out of the oven as soon as it is opaque and flakes easily.
- Fresh vs. Dried Dill: While this recipe calls for dried dill for convenience (it is more potent, so you use less), fresh dill is fantastic too! If swapping, use 1 tbsp of fresh dill for every 1 tsp of dried dill listed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon! However, for the best texture, ensure it is completely thawed in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If you are in a rush, place the sealed fish in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. Avoid baking it from frozen, as the butter and spices won't adhere well.
Q: How do I know when my salmon is fully cooked? A: The most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Visually, the salmon should turn from translucent pink to opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for specific diets like Keto or Gluten-Free? A: Absolutely. This is naturally a Keto salmon recipe and a Gluten-free family meal. Since we use simple spices and butter with no breading or flour, it fits perfectly into low-carb and celiac-friendly diets.
Q: What side dishes pair best with baked salmon? A: Since the salmon is rich and buttery, pair it with light sides like roasted asparagus, a crisp green salad, or quinoa. For a heartier meal, garlic mashed potatoes or wild rice work beautifully.
Conclusion
I hope you give these Easy Salmon Steaks with Dill a try this week! It truly is the ultimate healthy 30-minute dinner that doesn't sacrifice flavor for speed. Whether you are looking for a high protein fish dinner or just need a reliable quick weeknight seafood option, this recipe delivers every time.
Don't forget, mastering how to cook salmon steaks is all about not overthinking it—simple ingredients like the best seasoning for salmon (dill and onion powder!) often yield the best results. If you are following a specific diet, you will love having this Keto salmon recipe in your rotation. It is also a safe, delicious Gluten-free family meal that everyone at the table can enjoy.





