This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a mouthwatering blend of bold spices, rich buttery sauce, and sweet honey glaze. With a caramelized crust and tender, flaky inside, this recipe brings the heat and the sweet in perfect balance. It’s a go-to for me when I want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Directions
I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C).
I season the salmon fillets generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter and stir in the honey.
I add the salmon to the skillet, cooking it for about 4-5 minutes per side while continuously basting with the honey butter.
Once seared, I transfer the fillets to a baking dish and bake for 10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
I serve the salmon hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Calories per serving: Approximately 350 kcal
Variations
Sometimes I like to add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth. If I want a little tang, I’ll squeeze some lemon juice into the butter sauce while it cooks. For a more herbaceous twist, I occasionally mix in chopped parsley or thyme. If I’m not in the mood for spicy heat, I tone down the Cajun seasoning and let the honey butter shine.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer to warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat to keep the texture tender and the glaze intact. Microwaving works too—about 30–45 seconds on medium heat—just be careful not to overcook it.
FAQs
What is Cajun seasoning made of?
Cajun seasoning usually includes a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. I sometimes make my own to control the heat level.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, I’ve used frozen salmon many times. I just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning so it sears properly.
What sides go well with Cajun Honey Butter Salmon?
I love serving it with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. The buttery sauce pairs well with anything that can soak it up.
Can I grill this instead of baking?
Absolutely. After searing the salmon, I place it on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes until fully cooked. I still baste it with the honey butter to keep that flavor going.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as the Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients. I always check the label to be sure.
Conclusion
This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon has become one of my favorite quick dinner recipes. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and always delivers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Whether I’m cooking for myself or for company, it’s a reliable dish that never disappoints.
Recipe:
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Cajun Honey Butter Salmon
This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon recipe is the perfect combination of spicy, sweet, and savory. Featuring tender salmon fillets coated in bold Cajun seasoning, seared in a honey butter glaze, and finished in the oven, it’s a quick and flavorful 20-minute dinner. This easy salmon dish is perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining, and it’s naturally gluten-free.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Season salmon fillets generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
-
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the honey.
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Add salmon fillets to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, basting with the honey butter.
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Transfer salmon to a baking dish and bake for 10 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
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Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Notes
For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Add a splash of lemon juice to the butter sauce for extra tang.
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added for a fresh twist.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste depending on your spice preference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: ~350 kcal