Salmon is one of the most versatile and nutrient-rich fish available, and when combined with a rich butter, honey, and Dijon mustard glaze, it transforms into a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and elegance. This buttered honey mustard oven-baked salmon is sweet, tangy, and buttery, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
This foolproof recipe creates a salmon fillet that is perfectly flaky, moist, and infused with bold flavors. The honey caramelizes in the oven, creating a slightly crispy and golden top, while the butter keeps the salmon moist and tender. If you’re looking for an easy yet gourmet-quality dish, this recipe is a must-try.
Why You Will Love Buttered Honey Mustard Salmon
1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The combination of sweet honey, tangy Dijon mustard, and creamy butter creates a sauce that enhances the natural richness of salmon without overpowering it.
2. Quick and Effortless
With a prep time of under 10 minutes and a bake time of around 15 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for guests.
3. Healthy and Nutritious
Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy yet indulgent meal choice.
4. Versatile Pairing Options
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables and rice to fresh salads and crusty bread.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe stores well, making it a great option for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Butter
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic, minced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare Honey Mustard Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Season Salmon: Pat dry the salmon fillets and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place them skin-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Apply Sauce: Generously spoon the honey mustard mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 11–14 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky, pink, and opaque.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 28g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Expert Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Salmon
Even though this dish is incredibly easy to make, a few expert techniques can ensure that your salmon is perfectly cooked every time.
1. Choose High-Quality Salmon
For the best flavor and texture, opt for wild-caught salmon rather than farmed varieties. Wild salmon has a firmer texture and richer flavor, while farmed salmon is often milder and fattier.
2. Pat the Salmon Dry Before Baking
Excess moisture on the surface of the salmon can prevent the glaze from adhering properly. Patting the salmon dry with a paper towel helps the sauce stick better and promotes better caramelization.
3. Do Not Overbake
Salmon cooks quickly, and overbaking can cause it to become dry and tough. Bake just until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Let the Salmon Rest Before Serving
Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices and enhances the flavor.
5. Use Fresh Lemon for a Burst of Brightness
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds an extra layer of freshness and enhances the flavors of the glaze.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Buttered Honey Mustard Salmon
This dish pairs well with both light and hearty side dishes, allowing for a customizable meal experience.
1. Roasted Vegetables
Oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a crispy, caramelized texture that complements the salmon’s rich glaze.
2. Garlic Butter Rice or Quinoa
A simple bowl of garlic-infused rice or fluffy quinoa helps soak up the extra sauce and balances the flavors.
3. Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes
For a creamy and comforting pairing, serve the salmon with buttery mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes.
4. Steamed Green Beans or Broccoli
For a light and healthy side, steamed vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery glaze.
5. Fresh Salad
A crisp salad with arugula, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish.
Exciting Variations to Try
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, here are some creative variations of this recipe:
1. Spicy Honey Mustard Salmon
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the honey mustard sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Garlic Herb Butter Salmon
Swap the honey mustard glaze for a mixture of garlic, melted butter, fresh parsley, and a touch of lemon zest.
3. Maple Dijon Salmon
Replace honey with maple syrup for a slightly deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
4. Pecan-Crusted Honey Mustard Salmon
Sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking for an added nutty crunch.
5. Teriyaki Honey Mustard Salmon
Add a splash of soy sauce and a hint of ginger for an Asian-inspired twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Do I Know When Salmon Is Done?
Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium or 140°F (60°C) for well-done.
2. Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes! If using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I Cook This Salmon on the Stovetop Instead?
Absolutely! Simply sear the salmon fillets in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
4. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the honey mustard sauce in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, simply brush it onto the salmon and bake.
5. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Can I Freeze Cooked Salmon?
Yes! Freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Salmon?
To retain moisture, reheat the salmon in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish.
8. Can I Use a Different Type of Mustard?
Yes! If Dijon mustard is too tangy for your taste, try whole-grain mustard or honey mustard for a milder version.
Final Thoughts: A Simple Yet Elegant Salmon Dish
This buttered honey mustard oven-baked salmon is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a gourmet meal. The sweet and tangy glaze, paired with the richness of butter, ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and tenderness.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or an elegant dish to impress guests, this salmon recipe is a winner. With endless pairing possibilities and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Try it once, and it just might become your go-to salmon recipe for years to come!
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Easy Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon – Ready in 20 Minutes!
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This buttered honey mustard oven-baked salmon is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The buttery honey mustard glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, flavorful crust while keeping the salmon moist and flaky. This dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Butter
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic, minced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare Honey Mustard Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Season Salmon: Pat dry the salmon fillets and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place them skin-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Apply Sauce: Generously spoon the honey mustard mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 11–14 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky, pink, and opaque.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra caramelization, broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
- If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey, depending on your preference.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
