Honey Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
This Honey Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe is a quick and flavorful dinner that’s ready in under 20 minutes! Flaky salmon fillets are seared to perfection, then glazed with a rich honey garlic butter sauce that’s perfectly sweet, savory, and buttery. It’s an easy, restaurant-quality meal that pairs beautifully with rice, veggies, or salad for a healthy weeknight favorite!
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: Fresh or frozen and thawed. Skin-on helps the fish hold together.
- Butter: Adds flavor and helps the sauce stick to the salmon.
- Honey: Gives a natural sweetness that balances the garlic.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for the best taste.
- Lemon juice: Adds a light tangy note.
- Salt and pepper: Season simply but well.
Optional extras:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Chopped parsley for garnish.
- A drizzle of soy sauce for a salty edge.
Instructions
Season the salmon.
- Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon juice.
Make the sauce.
- Melt two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Don’t let it burn.
Add honey and lemon juice.
- Stir them into the butter. The sauce will bubble and thicken slightly.
Cook the salmon.
- Place the fillets skin-side down. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, spooning the sauce over the top as it cooks.
Check for doneness.
- The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks slightly pink in the center.
Serve.
- Spoon the warm sauce over the salmon before serving. Add a sprinkle of parsley or lemon slices if you like.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Salmon: Fresh or frozen salmon fillets both work well — if frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for the best sear.
- Pan Sear Tip: Use a hot skillet and avoid moving the salmon too soon; this helps get that perfect golden crust.
- Sauce: The honey garlic butter glaze thickens quickly — remove from heat once it turns glossy to avoid burning the honey.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a deep, rich flavor. Avoid pre-minced jarred garlic for the best taste.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Baking Option: You can also bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then broil for 1–2 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or butter.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 410 kcal |Carbohydrates: 16 g |
Fiber: 0 g |
Sugars: 14 g |
Protein: 34 g |
Fat: 22 g |
Saturated Fat: 8 g |
Cholesterol: 115 mg |
Sodium: 320 mg |
Potassium: 680 mg |
Calcium: 25 mg |
Iron: 0.8 mg