Baked salmon with mayonnaise: 5 Easy Steps To Make It

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and foolproof way to cook salmon, then this baked salmon with mayonnaise is the perfect dish for you. This recipe guarantees tender juicy salmon with a rich creamy topping that enhances the natural flavors of the fish. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this dish will impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor

According to Chef Emma “Mayonnaise acts as the perfect seal to keep the salmon moist while adding a deliciously creamy texture that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and seasonings”

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So what makes baked salmon with mayonnaise such a great recipe Let’s dive in

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers restaurant-quality flavors Here’s why you’ll love it

Keeps the Salmon Moist and Tender

✔ Mayonnaise forms a protective layer that locks in moisture preventing dry overcooked fish
✔ The fat in mayonnaise helps enhance the richness of the salmon

Adds Creamy Flavor Without Overpowering

✔ The slight tanginess of mayonnaise balances the natural sweetness of salmon
✔ Easily customizable by adding garlic lemon zest or Dijon mustard

Simple and Foolproof Cooking Method

✔ Minimal ingredients but big flavors
✔ No need for marinating or complicated techniques
✔ Ready in under 30 minutes

Perfect for Any Occasion

✔ Works for quick family meals or elegant dinner parties
✔ Pairs well with a variety of side dishes

For those who enjoy grilled fish, try these Grilled Dorado Fish Recipes—perfect for exploring different cooking methods for seafood.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is one of the healthiest fish you can eat It’s packed with nutrients that provide numerous health benefits

Chef Emma’s Tip “For the healthiest option choose wild-caught salmon which has higher omega-3 content and fewer additives”

Choosing the Best Salmon for Baking

The quality of the salmon you use makes a huge difference in flavor and texture Here’s what to look for

Fresh vs Frozen

✔ Fresh Salmon – Look for bright vibrant flesh with no fishy odor
✔ Frozen Salmon – If buying frozen make sure it’s vacuum-sealed to prevent freezer burn

Wild-Caught vs Farmed

✔ Wild-Caught Salmon – Richer in omega-3s and a firmer texture
✔ Farmed Salmon – Milder in flavor and often higher in fat

Skin-On vs Skinless

✔ Skin-On Salmon – Helps retain moisture and adds extra flavor
✔ Skinless Salmon – Great for quicker cooking and easier seasoning

Now that you know how to choose the best salmon let’s get started with the ingredients and step-by-step guide

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start cooking let’s go over the essential ingredients for baked salmon with mayonnaise Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a flavorful moist and perfectly baked dish

Main Ingredients

✔ Salmon fillets – 4 fillets (or 1 large salmon portion about 1.5 lbs)
✔ Mayonnaise – ½ cup for a rich creamy coating
✔ Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon for freshness and acidity
✔ Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves for extra depth of flavor
✔ Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon to enhance the tangy creaminess
✔ Salt and pepper – To season the fish perfectly

Optional Flavor Boosters

✔ Paprika or smoked paprika – Adds a mild smoky touch
✔ Fresh herbs (dill parsley or chives) – For garnish and extra freshness
✔ Parmesan cheese – 2 tablespoons for a crispy cheesy topping
✔ Breadcrumbs or panko – ¼ cup for added crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to customize the recipe here are some great substitutions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready let’s move on to the step-by-step guide for making baked salmon with mayonnaise

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Salmon with Mayonnaise

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process to create the perfect baked salmon with mayonnaise. Follow these simple instructions for a flaky, creamy, and flavorful dish.

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry using a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps the mayonnaise mixture stick better.
3. Season the salmon with salt and black pepper on both sides.

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Bringing the salmon to room temperature for 10 minutes before baking ensures even cooking.”

Step 2: Creating the Mayonnaise Coating

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine:
   • ½ cup mayonnaise
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
   • 2 cloves minced garlic
   • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
   • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
2. Mix everything well until smooth.

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “For an extra zesty kick, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture.”

For more seafood inspiration, check out this Seafood Bake Recipe—a delicious dish packed with flavor!

Step 3: Coating the Salmon

1. Spread a thick layer of the mayonnaise mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
2. Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese or panko breadcrumbs on top for a crispy crust.

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “The mayonnaise not only adds flavor but also keeps the salmon from drying out while baking.”

Step 4: Baking the Salmon

1. Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
2. The salmon is done when it:
   ✔ Flakes easily with a fork
   ✔ Has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part
3. For a golden brown top: Switch to broil mode for the last 2 minutes.

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “If you’re baking a whole salmon fillet, increase the cooking time to about 20–22 minutes.”

Step 5: Serving and Garnishing

1. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with:
   ✔ Fresh chopped parsley, dill, or chives
   ✔ Lemon slices for extra freshness

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.”

Baking Time & Doneness Guide

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness without overcooking.”

Flavor Variations & Customization Ideas

One of the best things about baked salmon with mayonnaise is how easy it is to customize the flavors. Whether you prefer a classic taste or something bold and spicy, here are different variations to try.

1. Garlic Herb Baked Salmon

✔ Add ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning to the mayo mixture.
✔ Use fresh chopped parsley, dill, or chives for extra freshness.
✔ Sprinkle grated Parmesan for a cheesy, golden crust.

2. Spicy Sriracha Mayo Salmon

✔ Replace Dijon mustard with 1 tablespoon sriracha.
✔ Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
✔ Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.

3. Lemon Dill Salmon

✔ Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
✔ Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and 1 tablespoon chopped dill.
✔ Serve with extra lemon wedges for a citrusy kick.

4. Honey Mustard Salmon

✔ Mix 1 tablespoon honey and 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard into the mayo.
✔ This gives the salmon a slightly sweet tangy glaze.
✔ Perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and savory.

5. Panko-Crusted Salmon

✔ Add ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter on top.
✔ Bake as usual but broil for the last 2 minutes for an extra crispy crust.
✔ Great for a restaurant-style texture.

Customization Table: Modify the Recipe to Your Taste

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Try a different variation each time to keep this recipe exciting!”

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Salmon

Even though baked salmon with mayonnaise is an easy dish, a few common mistakes can affect the texture and flavor. Here’s how to avoid them.

1. Overcooking the Salmon

✔ Salmon is best when flaky and moist, not dry.
✔ Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
✔ If unsure, remove it at 140°F (60°C) and let it rest—it will continue cooking slightly.

2. Using Too Much or Too Little Mayonnaise

✔ Too much mayo makes the topping greasy.
✔ Too little mayo won’t create the creamy, protective layer.
✔ Ideal amount: ½ cup of mayo for 1.5 lbs of salmon.

3. Not Drying the Salmon Before Coating

✔ Excess moisture prevents seasonings from sticking.
✔ Always pat the salmon dry with a paper towel before adding the mayo mixture.

4. Not Preheating the Oven

✔ A cold oven leads to uneven cooking.
✔ Always preheat to 375°F (190°C) before baking.

5. Baking Without Skin (If Using Skin-On Fillets)

✔ Keeping the skin on helps retain moisture.
✔ If you don’t like eating the skin, remove it after baking—it peels off easily!

Troubleshooting Table: Fix Common Baking Mistakes

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “If you accidentally overcook salmon, brush it with a little olive oil or butter right before serving to restore moisture.”

FAQs About Baked Salmon with Mayonnaise

Conclusion

Baked salmon with mayonnaise is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers moist, tender fish with a creamy, rich topping. It’s a foolproof recipe that works for busy weeknights or special occasions, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.

Best Sauces for Baked Salmon

While mayonnaise adds creaminess, you can switch things up with other sauces:

✔ Aioli Mustard Sauce – A garlicky, tangy alternative to plain mayonnaise.
✔ Tiger Sauce – If you love a hint of spice, this sauce is an exciting option.

Pairing your salmon with a flavorful sauce can make all the difference!

Best Side Dishes for Baked Salmon

✔ Dense Bean Salad – A protein-packed side to balance the meal.
✔ Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, asparagus, and zucchini complement the richness of salmon.
✔ Quinoa or Brown Rice – Light yet hearty grains that absorb the salmon’s juices.

For a light lunch option, consider turning leftovers into sandwiches, like the Chutney Tea Sandwich—an easy way to enjoy salmon in a different form.

Final Tips for the Best Baked Salmon:

✔ Always pat salmon dry before seasoning for the best texture
✔ Use just enough mayo to coat—too much can make it greasy
✔ Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until flaky
✔ Try different variations like spicy sriracha or lemon dill for new flavors

Whether you stick to classic mayonnaise or try it with Aioli Mustard Sauce, this creamy, oven-baked delight is bound to impress!

Baked Salmon with Mayonnaise:

This Baked Salmon with Mayonnaise is the easiest, most foolproof way to get tender, flaky salmon with rich, creamy flavor. The mayonnaise forms a delicious golden crust, keeping the fish moist and flavorful. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and works great for family dinners or special occasions!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Seafood

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets or 1 large fillet, about 1.5 lbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mayonnaise Topping:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon paprika optional, for extra flavor

Optional Toppings:

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy cheesy crust
• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and black pepper on both sides.
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Let the salmon sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking for even cooking.”

Step 2: Make the Mayonnaise Topping

• In a small bowl, mix:
• Mayonnaise
• Lemon juice
• Minced garlic
• Dijon mustard
• Paprika (optional)
• Stir until smooth and well combined.
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Adding a teaspoon of lemon zest enhances the citrusy flavor!”

Step 3: Coat the Salmon

• Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
• Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese or panko breadcrumbs for extra texture.
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “A light, even layer of mayo locks in moisture without making the fish greasy.”

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

• Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness.
• The salmon is done when it:
• Flakes easily with a fork
• Reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
• For a golden brown crust: Broil for 2 minutes at the end.
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “For whole salmon fillets, bake for 20–22 minutes at the same temperature.”

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

• Let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh dill, parsley, or lemon slices.
• ✔ Pair with:
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• A fresh side salad

Notes

✔ Use fresh or frozen salmon (thaw frozen fillets before cooking).
✔ Don’t overcook! Remove at 140°F (60°C)—it will continue cooking as it rests.
✔ Try different variations: Add sriracha for spice or honey mustard for sweetness.

Keyword Baked salmon with mayonnaise, creamy salmon bake, easy salmon recipe, mayo crusted salmon

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality salmon dish at home!