Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Save this recipe on:

Golden, flaky, and glazed with a glossy coat of sticky-sweet sauce, Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is the kind of dish that converts even the staunchest non-seafood eaters. This recipe brings together the gentle richness of salmon with the perfect balance of savory garlic and sweet honey, all tied together with a splash of lemon for freshness.

It bakes in under 20 minutes and looks like something you’d serve at a dinner party, but it’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. The buttery glaze caramelizes just slightly at the edges, making each bite tender with a hint of crisp—an irresistible contrast. Serve it over fluffy rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

---

Ingredients for this Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or off
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for serving)

---

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them skin-side down on the prepared sheet.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir well until the mixture is emulsified and smooth.

Step 3: Season and Coat

Sprinkle the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Using a spoon or pastry brush, evenly coat each piece with the honey garlic butter mixture, letting it pool slightly around the base for extra flavor during baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the tray to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. For caramelized edges, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes—but watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from oven and rest for 2 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices for brightness.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

Fully cooked salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque pink center. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking for even cooking and best texture.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, garlic mashed potatoes, or lemon herb rice pair beautifully with the sweet-savory profile of the salmon.

Can I substitute the honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a honey alternative. Just note that flavor and caramelization may vary slightly.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a subtle kick.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Bake a batch ahead of time and portion into containers with grains and veggies for easy weekday lunches.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: