Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes, this salmon is fast, flavorful, and uses simple pantry staples. Its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors is family-friendly, easy to prepare, and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Plus, it can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets by swapping soy sauce with tamari.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salmon:
fresh salmon, cut into 4 pieces
salt and pepper
olive oil
butter

For the sauce:
brown sugar
soy sauce
garlic powder
lemon juice
freshly grated ginger
Worcestershire sauce
chicken broth or water
cornstarch

Directions

1. Bring the salmon to room temperature and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, lemon juice, ginger, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth (or water), and cornstarch.

3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.

4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook without moving for about 5 minutes to crisp the skin.

5. Flip carefully, reduce heat to medium, and cook another 2–3 minutes.

6. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Pour the glaze around the salmon.

7. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for about 20–30 seconds. Flip the salmon once more and spoon the glaze over the top.

8. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

• Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.

• Citrus Boost: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter flavor.

• Asian Twist: Add a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out. It’s best eaten fresh but can be flaked over salads or rice bowls if reheated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.

What sides pair best with brown sugar glazed salmon?

Rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad are perfect companions.

Can I grill the salmon instead of searing?

Yes, grill over medium heat and brush with glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the mixed glaze in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using.

Should I remove the salmon skin?

You can, but leaving it on helps hold the fillet together and offers a crispy texture.

Can I double the glaze?

Yes, double the glaze ingredients if you want extra sauce for serving.

Is fresh ginger necessary?

Fresh ginger is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use ¼ teaspoon ground ginger if needed.

What should I do if the glaze is too thick?

Add a small splash of water or broth to thin it out slightly while cooking.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon is an easy, elegant dish that turns a simple fillet into a show-stopping meal. With its rich, sweet-savory glaze and tender texture, it’s a perfect option for both quick family dinners and special occasions. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular favorite!