Name: Easy Baked Mayo Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh salmon filets; ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ teaspoon sugar; ⅛ teaspoon paprika; ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder; ⅛ teaspoon black pepper; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 large lemon, thinly sliced

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Creamy, flaky, and bursting with citrus flavor, this baked mayo salmon is the perfect blend of richness and brightness. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked mayo salmon is a winning combination of convenience and gourmet flavor. The mayonnaise keeps the fish moist while forming a beautifully rich crust, enhanced by a blend of subtle spices. Lemon slices lend a bright, fresh finish, making every bite perfectly balanced. It’s ideal for busy nights, dinner parties, or a wholesome family meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds fresh salmon filets
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ teaspoon sugar
⅛ teaspoon paprika
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 large lemon, thinly sliced

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the salmon filets skin-side down on the lined baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix together sugar, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon.
Spread mayonnaise over the top surface of the salmon in a thick, even layer.
Arrange the lemon slices on top of the mayo-coated salmon.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches your desired doneness.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 410 kcal per serving

Variations

Herb Twist: Add finely chopped dill, parsley, or chives into the mayo mixture for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Spicy Version: Mix a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce into the mayonnaise for a spicy kick.
Dijon Upgrade: Swap half the mayonnaise with Dijon mustard for a tangier flavor.
Panko Crust: Sprinkle seasoned panko breadcrumbs over the mayo before baking for a crispier finish.
Citrus Swap: Use orange or lime slices instead of lemon for a different citrus profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the salmon in a baking dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the fish and alter the texture of the mayo topping.

FAQs

What does mayonnaise do for baked salmon?

Mayonnaise helps lock in moisture, ensuring the salmon stays tender and juicy. It also creates a flavorful, slightly crisp crust during baking.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this baked mayo salmon is low in carbs and fits well into a ketogenic diet.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the salmon up to a day in advance by seasoning and layering with mayo and lemon. Keep it refrigerated and bake just before serving.

What sides go well with baked mayo salmon?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed cauliflower, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad.

Can I use light or fat-free mayo?

Yes, but keep in mind that fat-free mayo may not give the same richness or browning as regular mayonnaise.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I grill this salmon instead?

This recipe is designed for oven baking. For grilling, consider wrapping the salmon in foil to maintain moisture and prevent the mayo from dripping into the flames.

Does the lemon go on before or after baking?

Place the lemon slices on top before baking to allow the citrus oils to infuse into the salmon as it cooks.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You could substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Conclusion

This easy baked mayo salmon offers a foolproof method for preparing flavorful, tender fish with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a dependable weeknight staple or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts—richness, brightness, and convenience. Add it to your dinner rotation for a reliable, crowd-pleasing meal.

Easy Baked Mayo Salmon

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Creamy, flaky, and bursting with citrus flavor, this baked mayo salmon is a quick and easy dinner recipe ready in just 30 minutes.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 pounds fresh salmon filets
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 large lemon, thinly sliced

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the salmon filets skin-side down on the lined baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix together sugar, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the salmon.
Spread mayonnaise over the entire surface of the salmon in a thick, even layer.
Arrange lemon slices on top of the mayo-coated salmon.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches your desired doneness.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.