Baked Salmon with brown sugar and garlic glaze that caramelizes beautifully is a simple recipe that comes together effortlessly. It’s perfect for a quick and easy busy weeknight dinner. The best part is kids love it too. Imagine coming home after a busy day, craving a delicious, wholesome meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor.
I love how flaky salmon pairs perfectly with a sweet brown sugar glaze, creating an irresistible balance of savory and sweet. This baked salmon recipe is one of my favorite ways to prepare fish—it’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet flavorful enough to impress dinner guests.
Baked Salmon with Brown Sugar and Garlic Glaze
The secret to the best salmon recipe lies in the brown sugar rub, which blends garlic powder, black pepper, and a touch of Dijon mustard to create a rich, savory glaze. For an extra depth of flavor, you can swap brown sugar soy glaze for a hint of umami or add a drizzle of maple syrup. Whether you’re a big fan of salmon or trying it for the first time, this wonderful recipe is bound to become a staple.
For easy prep and easy clean-up, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil before placing the fresh salmon skin side down. Cooking salmon in a preheated oven ensures a tender, flaky texture. If using a cedar plank, soak it beforehand for a smoky twist. An instant-read thermometer helps achieve the perfect internal temperature of the salmon—145°F at the thickest part of the salmon.
Easy Baked Salmon with Brown Sugar and Garlic Glaze Recipe
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 4 Large Salmon Filets
- 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 ½ Tablespoons Garlic Powder
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 Teaspoon Paprika
- ½ Teaspoon Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- Line baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Place the salmon filets on the baking sheet skin side down. Fold up the sides of the foil to create a bowl around the fish. This will keep juices close while cooking.4 Large Salmon Filets
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.3 Tablespoons Olive Oil, 1 ½ Tablespoons Garlic Powder, 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar, 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning, 1 Teaspoon Paprika, ½ Teaspoon Salt, ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- Apply the seasoning mixture evenly over the tops of the salmon fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once baked, serve these delightful salmon fillets hot off the pan.
Your Own Private Notes
Nutrition
How to Know When Salmon Is Done Cooking?
Knowing when baked salmon is done cooking is key to achieving a perfectly tender and flaky texture. Here are a few reliable ways to check.
Use an Instant-Read Thermometer (Best Method)
The most accurate way to check for doneness is with an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the salmon—the internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C) according to FDA guidelines. For a softer, restaurant-style texture, some chefs recommend removing it at 125-130°F and letting it rest for a few minutes as it continues to cook.
Check for Flakiness
Gently press a fork into the thickest part of the salmon and twist slightly. If the fish flakes easily and separates along the natural lines of the flesh, it’s ready. Flaky salmon is a sign that it’s cooked through but still moist.
Look at the Color
Raw fresh salmon is deep pink or red, but as it cooks, it turns an opaque light pink. If the center still looks translucent and jelly-like, it needs more time in the preheated oven.
Use the Fork Test (Timing-Based)
As a general guide.
- Baked salmon at 375°F: 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness
- Pan-seared salmon on a hot pan: 4-5 minutes per side
- Cedar plank salmon on the grill: 15-20 minutes
Check for White Albumin
If you see a white, milky substance (albumin) forming on the surface, your salmon is nearly done. Too much means it’s overcooked, so remove it from heat quickly!
No matter the method, let your salmon rest for a few minutes before serving—it helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.
Make the Salmon in an Air Fryer or Skillet too
While we opted to use the oven for this recipe, you can make this brown sugar salmon recipe in an air fryer or on the stovetop in a skillet for a quick and delicious alternative to baking. Here’s how.
Air Fryer Method
Cooking baked salmon in an air fryer is fast and gives a perfectly crispy top while keeping the inside tender.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Line the basket with parchment paper or lightly spray with non-stick spray for easy clean-up.
- Place the fresh salmon skin side down in a single layer.
- Brush the salmon with the brown sugar rub and cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Check the internal temperature of the salmon with an instant-read thermometer—it should reach 145°F in the thickest part of the salmon.
Pro Tip. If using an air fryer, the brown sugar glaze caramelizes beautifully, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Skillet Method (Stovetop)
For a quick, pan-seared version, use a nonstick pan or cast-iron skillet.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a hot pan over medium heat.
- Place the salmon skin side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until crispy.
- Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, brushing with the brown sugar soy glaze during the last minute.
- Remove from heat when the salmon flakes easily and the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145°F.
Pro Tip. If you want extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of lime juice or lemon juice to create a quick sauce for drizzling.
Both methods result in a flavorful, easy dinner, perfect for any night of the week.
What to Serve with Baked Salmon?
Pair it with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storing Leftovers
Store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For variety, use the remaining marinade as a base for salad dressings or a drizzle over wild salmon next time.
Whether you’re following a calorie diet, cooking for picky eaters, or simply looking for an easy recipe, this brown sugar salmon recipe delivers a complete meal every night of the week. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Easy Baked Salmon recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
My family loved this!