[Image of baked salmon on a plate with lemon wedges and dill]
How Long to Bake Salmon at 400 Degrees: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey readers,
Are you ready to cook up some mouthwatering salmon? This detailed guide will provide you with all the info you need to perfectly bake salmon at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Let’s dive in!
Choosing the Perfect Salmon
- Select fresh or frozen salmon fillets that are about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
- You can use any salmon variety, such as wild-caught, farm-raised, or Atlantic salmon.
- If using frozen salmon, thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for about 1 hour.
Preparing the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil or melted butter to prevent them from sticking.
- Season the salmon generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- You can add additional flavors by marinating the salmon beforehand, using mixtures like lemon juice, honey, or soy sauce.
Baking the Salmon
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes per inch of thickness.
- This means a 1-inch thick salmon fillet will take about 12-15 minutes to cook, while a 2-inch thick fillet will require 24-30 minutes.
How to Check for Doneness
- Insert a fork or a sharp knife into the thickest part of the salmon.
- The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily and has an opaque, light pink color.
- Avoid overcooking, as it will result in dry and tough salmon.
Baking Times for Different Thicknesses
- 1-inch thick: 12-15 minutes
- 1.5-inch thick: 18-22 minutes
- 2-inch thick: 24-30 minutes
Recipe Variations
- Lemon-Herb Salmon: Add lemon slices and fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and thyme to the salmon before baking.
- Honey-Mustard Salmon: Spread a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard over the salmon before baking.
- Teriyaki Salmon: Brush the salmon with teriyaki sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Creamy Pesto Salmon: Top the salmon with a mixture of pesto, cream, and grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
Table Breakdown: Baking Times and Temperatures
| Salmon Thickness | Baking Time at 400°F |
|—|—|—|
| 1 inch | 12-15 minutes |
| 1.5 inches | 18-22 minutes |
| 2 inches | 24-30 minutes |
Conclusion
Now you have all the knowledge to bake perfectly cooked salmon at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember to adjust the baking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets and check for doneness before removing them from the oven. Enjoy your delicious salmon creations!
Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more cooking tips and culinary adventures. Happy baking!
FAQ about how long to bake salmon at 400 degrees
How long do you bake salmon at 400 degrees for 4 ounces?
10 to 12 minutes, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake salmon in the oven at 400 degrees for 6 ounces?
12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake salmon at 400 degrees for 8 ounces?
15 to 18 minutes, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake salmon at 400 degrees for 10 ounces?
18 to 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake salmon at 400 degrees for 12 ounces?
20 to 22 minutes, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake salmon at 400 degrees for 14 ounces?
22 to 25 minutes, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake salmon at 400 degrees for 16 ounces?
25 to 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake salmon in foil at 400 degrees?
15 to 18 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
How long do you bake frozen salmon at 400 degrees?
25 to 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Do you bake salmon at 400 degrees covered or uncovered?
Uncovered. This will allow the skin to crisp up.
