Step 1 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Gently pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place on the baking sheet, skin side down.
Step 4 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Place the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high until melted, about 20 seconds.
Step 5 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Place the paprika, thyme leaves, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, and black pepper in the bowl with the butter. Stir with a fork until a thick paste forms.
Step 6 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Using a spoon and clean hands, rub a scant teaspoon of the spice mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
Step 7 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Cut the lemon in half. Squeeze the juice of one half evenly over the fillets. Reserve the other half for serving.
Step 8 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Bake the salmon on middle rack of oven until it flakes easily with a fork, 12-15 minutes.
Step 9 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Check to see that salmon is done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.
Step 10 of 10
Easy Cajun Baked Salmon
Squeeze the reserved lemon over the fillets and serve immediately. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.