Baked Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze

When it comes to healthy dinner recipes that balance flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation, baked salmon is a true winner. This Baked Salmon with Brown Sugar Glaze is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors, all wrapped around tender, flaky salmon fillets. The result is a restaurant-quality meal you can prepare at home in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and a touch of indulgence from the caramelized brown sugar glaze, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Nutritious – Loaded with protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – A glaze that balances sweetness, tanginess, and umami.
• Minimal Cleanup – One baking sheet and simple ingredients.
• Restaurant-Quality – Impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients that make this dish shine:

• Salmon Fillets (1.5–2 pounds): Choose fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor, though thawed frozen fillets work well too. The natural richness of salmon pairs beautifully with the sweet glaze.
• Brown Sugar (½ cup, packed): Creates the signature caramelized topping. You can use light brown sugar for a subtle sweetness or dark brown sugar for deeper molasses flavor.
• Soy Sauce (¼ cup, low sodium): Provides a savory balance and keeps the salmon moist.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds healthy fats and ensures the glaze clings to the fish.
• Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed): Cuts through richness and brightens the flavors.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a gentle savory base.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon, smoked or regular): Adds color and a hint of smokiness.
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon, freshly ground): Enhances the glaze with a subtle kick.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or lemon wedges for a fresh finish.

Tips and Tricks

• Pat the salmon fillets dry before glazing to help the sauce stick better.
• Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
• Don’t overcook — salmon is best when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• For extra caramelization, switch the oven to broil during the last 1–2 minutes of baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• Honey Twist: Replace half the brown sugar with honey for a lighter sweetness.
• Asian-Inspired: Add grated ginger and a drizzle of sesame oil to the glaze.
• Maple Glaze: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

This salmon recipe pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:

• Garlic butter green beans or roasted asparagus
• Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or couscous
• Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
• A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make this salmon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze and coat the salmon up to 8 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

2. Should I bake salmon covered or uncovered?
Bake uncovered for the best caramelization. Covering can trap steam and prevent the glaze from thickening.

3. What type of salmon works best?
Wild-caught salmon is the most flavorful, but Atlantic or farmed salmon works just as well for this recipe.