Delicious Baked Salmon with Garlic and Herbs Crockpot

Let’s talk about what it’s like when flaky, buttery salmon melts in your mouth and fills the room with the cozy, garlicky scent of herbs, citrus, and slow-cooked comfort. That’s exactly what this recipe promises. It’s warm, it’s fragrant, and it practically cooks itself in a crockpot, giving you all the indulgence without hovering over a stove. The garlic and herbs soak into every bite, and the lemon brings a fresh little zing that cuts through the richness just right.

Behind the Recipe

This dish came together during one of those long days when I needed something cozy and nourishing but also hands-off. I remembered my grandmother slow-cooking fish wrapped in parchment, with layers of herbs and garlic tucked into every fold. That flavor memory inspired this crockpot version, and let me tell you, it’s just as satisfying without all the cleanup.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While baked salmon is beloved across countless cuisines, this slow-cooked approach draws inspiration from both Mediterranean and Scandinavian traditions. The use of lemon, olive oil, and herbs speaks to classic Mediterranean profiles, while the gentle, low-temperature cooking method is reminiscent of Nordic poaching techniques that preserve the delicate texture of fish.

Why You’ll Love Delicious Baked Salmon with Garlic and Herbs Crockpot

This recipe is one of those keepers you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Versatile: Serve it with rice, pasta, veggies, or on top of a fresh salad. It works any time of year.

Budget-Friendly: Using just a handful of pantry staples and no fancy tools, it’s easy on your wallet without sacrificing flavor.

Quick and Easy: Prep takes about 10 minutes, then your crockpot does all the work while you go about your day.

Customizable: Toss in some cherry tomatoes, swap herbs, or drizzle with a honey glaze for a sweet twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: This one’s a showstopper. It smells amazing while cooking and looks stunning served whole.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in the morning, turn on the crockpot, and dinner’s ready when you are.

Great for Leftovers: Flake the leftover salmon into wraps, pasta, or scrambled eggs the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Here’s how to make sure your salmon turns out beautifully every time.

• Use skin-on salmon: It holds together better during slow cooking and keeps the fish moist.
• Don’t overcook: Even in a crockpot, salmon can dry out. Stick to 2.5–3 hours on low.
• Add lemon slices last: Placing them on top prevents bitterness and adds a bright punch of flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the salmon to sit for 5 minutes before serving so the juices settle and flavors deepen.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need much to pull off this recipe, just a few trusty basics.

Crockpot (Slow Cooker): The star of the show. Low, even heat brings out the best in the salmon.

Cutting board and knife: For prepping your garlic, onions, and herbs.

Small bowl: To mix your herb and oil marinade.

Tongs or spatula: To gently lift and serve your tender salmon fillets.

Ingredients in Delicious Baked Salmon with Garlic and Herbs Crockpot

The flavors here are fresh, bold, and comforting all at once. Together, they create a melody of zesty citrus, warm garlic, and savory herbaceous goodness.

1. Salmon fillets: 4 (6-ounce) pieces, skin-on. The main protein, rich and buttery, perfect for slow cooking.
2. Garlic cloves: 4, minced. Adds warm, aromatic depth that infuses every bite.
3. Olive oil: 3 tablespoons. Helps carry the herbs’ flavor and keeps the salmon moist.
4. Lemon slices: 1 lemon, thinly sliced. Adds brightness and balances richness.
5. Fresh parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Brings a fresh, clean contrast to the cooked fish.
6. Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon. Offers an earthy, herbaceous backbone.
7. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Enhances all the natural flavors.
8. Black pepper: ½ teaspoon. Adds a subtle heat and contrast.
9. Onion slices: 1 medium onion, thinly sliced. Adds sweetness and layers of flavor.
10. Chicken broth: ½ cup. Keeps the fish moist and creates a flavorful base.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to make swaps based on what’s in your kitchen.

Salmon: Use steelhead trout or cod for a similar texture.

Olive oil: Avocado oil works great here too.

Fresh parsley: Try fresh dill or cilantro for a different herbal twist.

Chicken broth: Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly.

Oregano: Italian seasoning or thyme will still deliver lovely flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Salmon: This fatty fish is packed with Omega-3s and lends itself beautifully to slow cooking, absorbing all the surrounding flavors while staying moist and flaky.

Garlic: When slow cooked, garlic becomes mellow and slightly sweet, adding warmth to the dish without overpowering it.

Instructions for Making Delicious Baked Salmon with Garlic and Herbs Crockpot

Cooking this dish is a breeze. The crockpot does most of the work, while you sit back and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your crockpot to the low heat setting.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lay onion slices at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth to create a flavor base.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the salmon fillets on top of the onions, skin-side down. Rub each fillet with the herb mixture and top with lemon slices.
5. Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Finishing Touches: Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes in the crockpot, lid off, to absorb remaining juices.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Gently lift the salmon out using a spatula or tongs, serve warm with your favorite sides.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic here is in the contrast. The salmon becomes tender and buttery, while the lemon slices and garlic create little bursts of brightness and warmth. The broth underneath keeps everything juicy and deeply flavorful, with the onions adding a touch of natural sweetness to balance the herbaceous top notes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here’s how to make your cooking experience even smoother:

• Use thicker salmon fillets for juicier results.
• Don’t skip the resting period, it makes a difference in texture.
• If you like a little crisp, quickly broil the cooked salmon for 2 minutes before serving.
• Double the garlic if you’re a serious garlic lover.

What to Avoid

Even simple recipes have their pitfalls. Here’s how to dodge them.

• Overcooking the salmon. Set a timer and check early.
• Using frozen fillets without thawing. It’ll water down your flavors.
• Skipping the broth. You need that moisture and base flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is super meal-prep friendly. You can assemble everything in the crockpot insert the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just pull it out and set the slow cooker when you’re ready. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, just defrost overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve Delicious Baked Salmon with Garlic and Herbs Crockpot

Serve this salmon alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or over fluffy rice to soak up all that garlicky broth. A fresh side salad with vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. For a dinner party, garnish with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped herbs to dress it up.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers never looked so good.

• Make salmon tacos with shredded cabbage and lime crema.
• Flake into a salmon salad with Greek yogurt and dill.
• Toss into a creamy pasta with spinach and parmesan.
• Use as a topping for avocado toast with chili flakes.

Additional Tips

Keep your flavors vibrant and balanced with these extra tricks.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for gentle heat.
• A touch of honey in the olive oil mix brings out natural sweetness.
• Swap lemon for orange slices for a citrusy twist.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation matters. Place your fillets over a bed of herbed rice, drizzle with pan juices, and scatter extra parsley and lemon zest on top. Serve in the crockpot insert itself for rustic charm or plate individually on clean white dishes with microgreens.

Variations to Try

Get creative with your base recipe:

• Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta.
• Asian Fusion: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh ginger instead of oregano.
• Spicy Kick: Add harissa or chili paste to the herb mix.
• Citrus Overload: Use a blend of lemon, lime, and orange slices.
• Creamy Dreamy: Stir a splash of cream into the broth at the end for richness.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I cook this on high instead of low?

A1: Yes, but reduce the time to 1.5 to 2 hours and keep an eye on doneness.

Q2: Do I need to remove the skin before cooking?

A2: No, it helps the salmon stay intact and adds flavor.

Q3: Can I use frozen salmon?

A3: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely first.

Q4: Will other herbs work?

A4: Absolutely, dill, thyme, or basil are great substitutes.

Q5: Can I double this recipe?

A5: Yes, as long as your crockpot is large enough to fit everything without crowding.

Q6: What if I don’t have broth?

A6: Water with a dash of salt and a splash of lemon juice will work.

Q7: Is this keto-friendly?

A7: Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.

Q8: Can I make this dairy-free?

A8: It already is, naturally!

Q9: Can I cook vegetables with it?

A9: Definitely, add carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers around the fish.

Q10: How do I know it’s done?

A10: The salmon should flake easily with a fork and look opaque.

Conclusion

There’s something so comforting about letting your kitchen do the work while the aroma of lemon, garlic, and herbs slowly fills the air. This baked salmon in a crockpot isn’t just a recipe, it’s a little slice of dinnertime magic. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, trust me, this one’s a total game-changer. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh so worth every bite.

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