The Easiest Salmon You’ll Ever Cook

Last updated September 24, 2026.

This is my default way to cook a skin-on salmon fillet.

Preheat the oven to 500°F.

Heat a small oven-safe skillet over medium heat until hot. If you're using nonstick, make sure the pan is rated for high oven temperatures.

Pat the salmon very dry and place it in the pan skin side down.

Don't flip it.

Immediately transfer the pan to the oven.

Lower the oven temperature to 425°F and cook for 9 minutes.

Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two before serving.

If you've already brined the salmon, there's usually no need to season it with additional salt.