Honey Garlic Butter Salmon: A Sweet and Savory Delight

October 17, 2025

Honey Garlic Butter Salmon has become a favorite of mine for its delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. I remember the first time I prepared it; the aroma of garlic and honey wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water. The tender, flaky salmon fillets were perfectly glazed in a rich butter sauce that left everyone asking for seconds. This Honey Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is not just simple but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, it never fails to impress. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Deliciously sweet and savory, a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Healthy salmon packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
Can be made in under 25 minutes, including prep time.
Versatile: pairs well with rice, vegetables, or potatoes.
This Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon is gluten-free!

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

Here’s everything you need for this delicious dish:

24 oz (680 g) salmon fillets – skin-on is recommended for extra flavor.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – adds richness to the sauce.
2 tbsp honey – provides the sweet base for the glaze.
3 cloves garlic, minced – adds robust flavor.
2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari – for depth and umami.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice – balances sweetness and brightens the dish.
1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the salmon (optional).
Salt (to taste) – enhances flavor.
Black pepper (to taste) – adds a hint of spice.
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – for garnish and freshness.
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional, for heat).
Lemon wedges (for serving, optional).

How to Make Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce (or tamari), and lemon juice until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and swirl to coat.
Step 4: When the pan is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Press gently with a spatula for 10–15 seconds to ensure full contact and a crisp sear. Sear the skin-side down, undisturbed, for 2–3 minutes until the skin is crispy and the edges begin to turn opaque.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium. Carefully pour the honey-garlic butter sauce over and around the fillets, spooning a little over the tops.
Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 125°F–130°F (52°C–54°C) for moist, slightly medium doneness.
Step 7: For extra glaze color, broil on high for 30–60 seconds at the end – watch closely to avoid burning the honey.
Step 8: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2–3 minutes. Spoon any pan sauce over the fillets, sprinkle with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve with lemon wedges.
Step 9: For a stovetop-only option: After searing, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 6-8 minutes until done.

Delicious Honey Garlic Butter Salmon fillets perfectly glazed and garnished with fresh parsley, ready to serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

These tips will help you nail the perfect dish every time:

Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking for juicier fish.
Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to the skillet for a complete meal.

What’s the secret to perfect Honey Garlic Butter Salmon?

The secret lies in the honey butter sauce; letting it caramelize slightly in the pan gives an incredible depth of flavor to the salmon.

Can I make Honey Garlic Butter Salmon ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the salmon in the sauce for up to 2 hours before cooking. Just be sure to cook it fresh for the best flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Honey Garlic Butter Salmon?

Avoid cooking on too high heat to prevent burning the sauce. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve a perfect sear on each fillet.

Close-up of a perfectly cooked Honey Garlic Butter Salmon fillet with a rich, golden-brown glaze.

Best Ways to Serve Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, or roasted potatoes. You can also toss in a fresh salad for a complete meal. For an exciting twist, try serving it with Honey Garlic Salmon with Vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.

Nutrition Facts for Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

Per serving (1 fillet):

Calories: 520
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Protein: 46g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

To store leftovers, allow the salmon to cool, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your Baked Honey Garlic Salmon again with minimal effort!

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Garlic Butter Salmon

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! This recipe works well with other fish like trout or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

What is Honey Garlic Salmon?

It’s a dish made using salmon fillets coated in a mixture of honey, garlic, and butter, creating a sweet and savory glaze.

Why use honey in salmon recipes?

Honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Can I make this dish on the grill?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a grill-safe pan to catch the sauce, or wrap the salmon in foil with the sauce for grilling.

Variations of Honey Garlic Butter Salmon You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors! You can try adding ginger for an Asian twist or using maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor. For a healthier option, swap out the butter for olive oil. You can even make a Honey Garlic Salmon in Foil for easy cleanup!