Cajun Garlic Baked Salmon is moist, tender, and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup. This recipe bakes salmon to perfection in a buttery Cajun garlic sauce that’s full of flavor.
This simple salmon recipe uses common pantry ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a great weeknight main that feels special without any fuss. Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How to Make Baked Salmon:
For this recipe you’ll need a 2–3 pound side of salmon, butter, garlic, Cajun seasoning, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The combination of honey, garlic, and Cajun seasoning creates a bright, savory glaze that complements the salmon’s natural richness.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Remove the salmon from its packaging and pat it completely dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the minced garlic, honey, and lemon juice until combined.
- Evenly sprinkle Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper over the salmon.
- Pour the butter and honey mixture over the salmon, spreading it gently so the fish is coated.
- Fold the foil up around the salmon to form a sealed packet and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Optional: After baking, carefully open the foil and broil for 3–5 minutes to give the top a light golden finish.
How to Tell When Salmon is Done:
Use an instant-read meat thermometer for reliable results. Salmon is considered safe and done at 145°F (63°C). You can also check doneness by flaking the fish with a fork — it should separate easily and be opaque throughout.
How to Reheat Salmon:
Salmon is best eaten fresh, but leftovers reheat well if handled gently. Reheat covered in foil at a low oven temperature (about 250°F / 120°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Leftover salmon is also delicious cold, added to salads or served with a squeeze of lemon.
Enjoy!
~Nichole
Cajun Garlic Baked Salmon
Ingredients
- 1 2-3 Pound Salmon Filet
- 5 Tablespoons Butter, Melted
- 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- 1 Tablespoon Honey
- Juice of one lemon, about 2 Tablespoons
- 1 Tablespoon Cajun Seasoning
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and lightly grease or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
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Pat the salmon dry and place it skin-side down on the prepared foil.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, honey, and lemon juice.
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Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the salmon. Drizzle the butter mixture over the top.
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Fold the foil into a packet and bake for 20 minutes, or until the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.