This sticky garlic butter salmon is an easy, crowd-pleasing way to prepare salmon. The exterior gets slightly crisp while the interior stays tender and buttery. Its balanced, mild flavor pairs well with a wide variety of sides.
I’ve got the perfect salmon recipe for your dinner this week.
This garlic butter salmon is simple, fast, and packed with flavor. It comes together quickly and consistently earns rave reviews—leftovers are great too.
It pairs beautifully with almost any side. We often serve it with brown or white rice; roasted or mashed potatoes are also excellent. Roasted vegetables like parmesan broccoli, cacio e pepe cauliflower or Brussels sprouts all complement the salmon well. Simple slaws, a buttery orzo, or hasselback potatoes are tasty options too.
I make salmon more than any other seafood—it’s easy, widely enjoyed, and reliable for weeknight dinners. I also love variations like a sticky pomegranate glaze, but this version uses a more neutral, year-round flavor.
For this recipe I focused on butter, garlic, a touch of honey or maple, and a bit of BBQ sauce for depth. The fish starts on the stovetop to develop the glaze, then finishes in the oven for consistent doneness. Fresh herbs and lemon brighten the finished dish.
The result is sticky, buttery, garlicky, and absolutely delicious.
This can be ready in under 30 minutes. Pair it with an easy side and dinner is done—simple, satisfying, and comforting.
I could happily eat this straight from the plate. It’s that good.
Sticky Garlic Butter Salmon
Sticky Garlic Butter Salmon
4 people
Ingredients
- 4 salmon filets
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tablespoons your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Rice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Season the salmon filets all over with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in the maple syrup (or honey), BBQ sauce, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the salmon to the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Spoon the glaze over the salmon every 30 seconds while it cooks for about 5 minutes on the stovetop.
- Transfer the uncovered skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 5 to 8 minutes, until the salmon is opaque, flakes easily, and is cooked through to your preference.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. Serve alongside white or brown rice, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side.
Did you make this recipe?
Tag your photos with #howsweeteats to share your results. I appreciate you!
The flakiest, butteriest salmon—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy, impressive meal.