Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Save this recipe on:

The first time I made this Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, it was purely experimental. I had just returned from the market with a fresh fillet of salmon, and the pantry offered little more than the basics: honey, garlic, butter. It wasn’t the ingredients that surprised me—it was the transformation. That simple glaze turned the tender salmon into something that tasted like it came out of a high-end kitchen.

Since then, this recipe has been my go-to whenever I want to impress without stress. It’s unfussy, quick, and the flavor is outrageous. There’s a magic that happens when garlic hits bubbling butter, and that sweet drizzle of honey caramelizes just enough in the oven to make each bite unforgettable. It’s one of those dishes that always gets asked about when served to guests.

What I love most is how versatile it is. I’ve served it with roasted vegetables, over rice, next to pasta—even tucked into tacos. And it always works. It’s warm, slightly sticky, perfectly savory-sweet, and utterly addictive. It also happens to be an excellent way to bring seafood skeptics over to the bright side.

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

This recipe brings a mouthwatering combination of rich, flaky salmon and a buttery glaze that’s equal parts sweet and savory. The balance of honey and garlic gives it a satisfying depth of flavor, and the butter ensures every bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender. You’ll appreciate how quick it comes together—20 minutes tops—and how elegant it looks on a plate.

If you’re searching for more quick weeknight favorites, check out Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta or the crowd-pleasing Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce. They’re every bit as comforting and simple to pull off.

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easy. Lightly grease the bottom with a bit of olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and let them cook for about a minute until fragrant. Add 1/3 cup honey, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Stir until everything is well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Prep the Salmon
Place 4 salmon fillets, skin-side down, in the prepared baking dish. Season them with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Pour the honey garlic butter sauce generously over the fillets, making sure they are coated evenly.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. If you like a little caramelization on top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely so it doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and spoon some of the pan sauce over the salmon. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of fresh salmon, you can use frozen—just be sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture. No honey? Try maple syrup for a deeper, more earthy sweetness. If you prefer an herby twist, rosemary or thyme can be added to the butter sauce.

Want more kick? A teaspoon of sriracha or a dash of hot sauce blends beautifully with the honey and garlic. For a lower-fat version, swap butter with olive oil or use half and half for a lighter glaze. Vegetarians can use thick slices of tofu or cauliflower steaks instead of salmon, following the same method for a tasty plant-based twist.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon shines brightest when served with sides that soak up its luscious sauce. I love pairing it with fluffy jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts bring in that fresh crunch. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll plate it over a creamy risotto or serve it alongside a fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Wine-wise, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc is perfect. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon slices or a crisp apple cider. This dish is also excellent tucked into a sandwich with arugula and aioli or flaked into pasta for an easy next-day meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave it gently in 30-second intervals. Just be sure not to overdo it—overheating can dry it out.

For freezing, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It’ll keep well for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 145°F (63°C).

Can I use salmon with the skin on?

Absolutely. In fact, skin-on salmon helps keep the fillet moist and holds it together while baking. Just place it skin-side down.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Garlic powder works in a pinch. Use about 1/2 teaspoon for every garlic clove the recipe calls for.

Is it okay to use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and season the salmon a few hours ahead. Keep everything covered in the fridge, then bake it just before you’re ready to eat.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, you’re going to love the other flavorful mains I’ve been cooking up. For another creamy and satisfying dinner, try the Creamy Beef and Shells—it’s rich, comforting, and always a hit with kids and adults alike. Another great one to check out is the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, which comes together fast and tastes like it simmered all day.

In the mood for something indulgent? The Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is layered, gooey, and absolutely satisfying.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon made it to your list of favorite dinners, don’t forget to save it! Pin this recipe to your seafood board on Pinterest so it’s easy to find next time you’re craving something easy yet impressive.

Sharing is caring—send it to a friend who loves salmon, or post it to your social media and tag us so we can see your creation. Whether you’re meal-prepping or planning a dinner party, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Save this recipe on: