If you’re wondering how long to put salmon in oven at 350°F, you’ve come to the right place. This temperature is a sweet spot for cooking salmon, resulting in a tender, flaky fillet. The simple answer is that it typically takes 15 to 25 minutes, but several key factors influence the exact time. Getting it right means perfect salmon every time, and it’s easier than you might think.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover preparation, timing based on thickness, and how to tell when your salmon is perfectly done. You’ll also find tips for seasoning, side dish ideas, and solutions to common problems. Let’s get started.
How Long To Put Salmon In Oven At 350
As mentioned, the general range is 15 to 25 minutes in a 350°F oven. The most critical factor is the thickness of your salmon fillet or steak. A very thin piece might be done in as little as 12 minutes, while a thick, center-cut portion could need 30 minutes. Always let your salmon’s appearance and internal temperature be your final guide, not just the clock.
Key Factors That Affect Cooking Time
Understanding these variables will help you predict the time more accurately.
- Thickness: This is the biggest factor. Measure the thickest part of your fillet.
- Starting Temperature: Is your salmon straight from the fridge or at room temperature? Cold salmon takes longer.
- Cut Type: A single, even fillet cooks differently than a folded “en papillote” packet or a whole side of salmon.
- Baking Surface: Cooking on a preheated sheet pan versus a cold pan or in a baking dish can change the time slightly.
- Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary. An oven thermometer is a cheap and invaluable tool.
Step-by-Step Guide for Baking Salmon at 350°F
Follow these steps for consistently great results.
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking from the moment the salmon goes in. While it heats, prepare a baking sheet. You can line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Lightly oil the paper or the pan itself to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a nice surface and helps seasoning stick. Check for and remove any small pin bones with tweezers. Then, drizzle the fillets with a little olive oil or avocado oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. This is the foundation for any other flavors you add.
3. Seasoning and Flavor Ideas
While salt and pepper are enough, here are some simple combinations:
- Lemon & Dill: Place lemon slices on and under the fillet, sprinkle with fresh or dried dill.
- Maple Glaze: Mix 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 minced garlic clove. Brush on before and halfway through cooking.
- Herb Crust: Mix breadcrumbs with chopped parsley, thyme, and a little melted butter. Press onto the top of the oiled fillet.
- Simple Spice Rub: Use smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of brown sugar.
4. Baking Time Based on Thickness
Place your seasoned salmon on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if it has skin. Here’s a reliable thickness-to-time guide:
- ¾-inch thick: 15-18 minutes
- 1-inch thick: 18-22 minutes
- 1½-inch thick (or a folded fillet): 22-28 minutes
Remember, these times are estimates. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the lower end of the range.
5. How to Tell When Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked
Overcooked salmon is dry, so knowing when to take it out is key. Use these three methods together:
- Visual Check: The salmon will turn from translucent deep pink to opaque light pink. The flesh should flake easily when gently pressed with a fork at the thickest part.
- Internal Temperature: This is the most reliable method. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. The USDA recommends 145°F, but many chefs prefer 125-130°F for medium-rare to medium, which is more moist. It will continue to cook a bit after removal (carryover cooking).
- Touch Test: Gently press the top of the salmon. It should feel firm but still have a little give, like the base of your palm when you touch your thumb and pinky together.
6. Resting and Serving
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven. Let it rest on the pan for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fillet, ensuring every bite is moist. Serve it directly from the pan, optionally with a fresh squeeze of lemon or a dollop of sauce.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even simple recipes have pitfalls. Here’s how to steer clear.
- Not Preheating the Oven: This leads to uneven cooking and a longer, less predictable cook time.
- Skipping the Pat-Dry Step: Wet fish steams instead of roasts, preventing a nice texture.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Leave space between fillets so heat can circulate properly.
- Relying Solely on Time: Always use the visual, temperature, and touch checks. Your oven is unique.
- Serving Immediately: Not letting the salmon rest means lost juices and a drier result.
Recipe Variations: Baking Methods
Changing the baking method can infuse different flavors and textures.
Baked Salmon in Foil or Parchment Packets
This method, often called “en papillote,” steams the salmon in its own juices. It’s incredibly moist and locks in aromatics. Place the seasoned salmon on a large piece of foil or parchment, add herbs and lemon, fold the packet tightly, and bake. It may take a few minutes longer than open baking, about 20-25 minutes for a standard fillet.
Sheet Pan Salmon with Vegetables
This is a complete meal on one pan. Choose vegetables that cook in a similar time, like asparagus, broccoli florets, or sliced bell peppers. Toss them in oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on the sheet pan. Roast for 10-15 minutes before adding the salmon fillets to the same pan, then continue cooking until the salmon is done.
Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Salmon
Salmon pairs well with a wide variety of sides. Here are some classic and healthy options:
- Grains: Quinoa, rice pilaf, or couscous.
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, green beans almondine, or a simple garden salad.
- Starches: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potato wedges, or orzo pasta.
- Salads: A tangy cucumber dill salad or a lemony arugula salad cuts through the richness.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover salmon is great for salads or pasta. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, the oven is best. Place it on a foil-lined tray, add a teaspoon of water or broth, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 275°F for about 15 minutes. The microwave can make it rubbery if you’re not careful—use a low power setting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you bake salmon at 350 or 400?
Both work well! 350°F is gentler and more forgiving, especially for beginners or thicker cuts. 400°F is faster and gives a slightly crispier top. At 400°F, cook for 10-15 minutes generally.
How long does it take to cook salmon at 350 in foil?
In a tightly sealed foil packet, salmon typically takes 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F. The packet creates a steaming environment, so it can take a bit longer than open baking.
How long to bake salmon at 350 from frozen?
It’s possible but not ideal. If you must, bake it directly from frozen at 350°F for 25-35 minutes, depending on thickness. For better results, thaw it in the fridge overnight first.
Should you flip salmon when baking?
No, you do not need to flip salmon when baking it in the oven. Place it skin-side down (if it has skin) and leave it. This allows the top to cook evenly and the skin to get crispy if desired.
Can you overcook salmon at 350?
Absolutely. Even at this moderate temperature, salmon can become dry and tough if left in too long. That’s why checking the internal temperature is so important to prevent overcooking.
Conclusion
Mastering how long to put salmon in the oven at 350°F is a simple skill that yields impressive results. By focusing on the thickness of your fillet and using a thermometer to check for doneness, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked, moist salmon every single time. Experiment with different seasonings and methods like foil packets or sheet-pan dinners to keep meals interesting. With this knowledge, a healthy, delicious dinner is just about 20 minutes away. Now you have all the tools you need to cook salmon with confidence.