The general guideline for baking salmon at 400°F (204°C) depends mainly on the thickness of the fillet:
- For thin fillets (~½ inch thick), bake for about 8 to 10 minutes.
- For medium fillets (~1 inch thick), bake for about 12 to 15 minutes.
- For thick fillets (~1½ inches or more), bake for about 18 to 20 minutes.
If baking salmon in foil at 400°F, times are slightly longer:
- Thin fillets: 12-15 minutes
- Medium fillets: 15-18 minutes
- Thick fillets: 18-20 minutes
For frozen salmon, add extra time:
- Thin portions: 20-25 minutes
- Medium fillets: 25-30 minutes
- Thick fillets: 30-35 minutes
The key is to bake until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety, though many chefs recommend pulling it at around 135°F for optimal moistness and texture, allowing it to rest and finish cooking with residual heat
. In summary, baking salmon at 400°F generally takes 10-20 minutes depending on thickness, with careful monitoring to avoid overcooking and ensure it remains tender and flaky
