Name: Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless); 3 tbsp honey; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp soy sauce; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Lemon slices (for garnish); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is one of my favorite go-to dishes when I need something easy, fast, and packed with flavor. The salmon comes out perfectly flaky, with a rich glaze of sweet honey, savory garlic, melted butter, and a hint of soy sauce and lemon for brightness. It's a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner at home.

Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

3 tablespoon honey

3 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon soy sauce

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Lemon slices (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

I place the salmon fillets on the tray, skin-side down if they have skin.

In a small bowl, I whisk together the honey, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce.

I season the salmon with salt and black pepper, then spoon the honey garlic butter mixture evenly over each piece.

I top the fillets with a few lemon slices to enhance the flavor.

I bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

For an extra caramelized top, I broil the salmon on high for 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

I finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 360 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap honey with maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.

For extra heat, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

If I’m out of lemon, lime juice works well too.

To make it dairy-free, I replace butter with olive oil or a vegan alternative.

I’ve also tried it with trout fillets, and it turned out great.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover it loosely with foil and warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. Microwaving works too, but I reduce the power to avoid overcooking. I don’t recommend freezing it after baking, as the texture can change.

FAQs

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

I check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a slightly opaque center. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, I just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking so the sauce sticks well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free if I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. I sometimes mix the honey garlic butter sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge until I’m ready to bake.

What side dishes go well with this salmon?

I like to serve it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a dish I come back to again and again. It’s easy, fast, and full of flavor with a glossy, sticky glaze that transforms everyday salmon into something special. Whether I’m cooking for myself or hosting a dinner, it’s a recipe that always delivers.

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Honey Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This honey garlic butter baked salmon is a quick, flavorful dish featuring a sweet-savory glaze made with honey, garlic, butter, lemon, and soy sauce. Perfectly flaky and caramelized, it's ideal for both weeknights and special dinners.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper.
Place the salmon fillets on the tray, skin-side down if applicable.
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce.
Season the salmon with salt and black pepper.
Spoon the honey garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
Top each fillet with lemon slices.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Optional: Broil on high for 2–3 minutes for a caramelized top, watching closely.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.