Honey Mustard Baked Salmon – Easy, Flavorful Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner idea, this Honey Mustard Baked Salmon recipe is a must-try.

Perfectly tender salmon fillets are coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze, then baked to perfection for a dish that’s both simple and impressive. This easy salmon recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a special family dinner.

Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and wholesome ingredients, baked salmon is not only delicious but also nutritious. Serve it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal everyone will love.

Recipe Information

  • Serves: 4 people
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Course: Main Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Why You’ll Love This Honey Mustard Salmon Recipe

It’s incredibly simple – even beginner cooks can master this recipe on their first try. The honey mustard glaze creates a beautiful caramelized coating that locks in the salmon’s natural moisture, ensuring you get perfectly flaky fish every single time.

What I love most is how the sweet honey perfectly balances the sharp Dijon mustard, creating a flavor profile that appeals to both adults and kids. Plus, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, making this dish as nutritious as it is tasty.

honey mustrad baked salmon recipe

Equipment Needed

  • Large baking sheet or rimmed baking dish
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Kitchen timer
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional but recommended)

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Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Honey Mustard Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Extra thyme sprigs

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.

Step 4: Apply the Glaze

Brush or spoon the honey mustard mixture generously over the top and sides of each salmon fillet, reserving about 2 tablespoons for serving.

Step 5: Bake the Salmon

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The glaze should be caramelized and golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Drizzle with reserved glaze, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfect Honey Mustard Salmon

  • Choose quality salmon: Look for bright, firm fillets with no fishy smell
  • Don’t overcook: Salmon continues cooking after removing from oven, so slightly underdone is better than overcooked
  • Room temperature start: Let salmon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even cooking
  • Check for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 145°F, and the fish should flake easily
  • Make it ahead: You can prepare the glaze up to 2 days in advance

Serving Suggestions

This honey mustard baked salmon pairs beautifully with:

  • Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli
  • Fluffy rice pilaf or wild rice
  • Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
  • Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Steamed green beans with almonds

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (texture may change slightly)
  • Reheating: Gently reheat in a 275°F oven for 10-12 minutes or enjoy cold in salads

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount
Calories285
Protein35g
Total Fat12g
Saturated Fat2g
Carbohydrates12g
Fiber0g
Sugar11g
Sodium580mg
Omega-3 Fatty Acids1.8g
Vitamin D360 IU
Selenium40mcg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat dry thoroughly and proceed with the recipe as directed.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can substitute with yellow mustard, though the flavor will be milder. For best results, use 2 tablespoons yellow mustard and add 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar for tang.

Can I make this recipe with other types of fish?

Absolutely! This honey mustard glaze works wonderfully with cod, halibut, or mahi-mahi. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your fish fillets.

What’s the best way to prevent the salmon from sticking?

Use parchment paper or lightly oil your baking sheet. The natural oils in the salmon and the honey mustard glaze should prevent sticking.

Final Words

This honey mustard baked salmon recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With its perfect balance of flavors and foolproof cooking method, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

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