Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon is a simple, yet flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness from maple syrup and the tanginess of Dijon mustard. The salmon fillets are coated with the maple-Dijon glaze, then roasted on a sheet pan with vegetables like asparagus, potatoes, or broccoli for an easy, one-pan meal. The glaze caramelizes as the salmon bakes, creating a rich, slightly sticky coating that perfectly complements the tender, flaky fish.
The first time I made this, I was looking for a quick, healthy dinner that still packed a punch of flavor, and it turned out to be a new favorite! The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness, while the Dijon mustard gives the dish just the right amount of tang. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is—everything cooks on one sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze, and it’s a perfect meal for busy nights. Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon is perfect for a healthy, flavorful dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to make!
Perfect for:
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Special occasions
- Holiday meals
- Easy entertaining
- Seafood lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon will become a staple in your recipe collection:
- Irresistible Flavor Pairing: The combination of maple syrup and Dijon mustard gives a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the salmon perfectly.
- Simple One-Pan Meal: This recipe requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it a perfect choice for busy nights.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a fast but flavorful dinner.
- Tender Salmon: The salmon turns out tender and flaky, infused with the flavorful glaze.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3s and protein, this dish offers a wholesome and satisfying meal.
- Customizable Glaze: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the glaze to suit your taste preferences.
- Versatile Side Pairings: Pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Serve it at dinner parties or holiday gatherings for a crowd-pleasing dish.
- Make-Ahead Option: The glaze can be prepared ahead of time for even quicker prep on busy nights.
- Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 34g, Carbs: 18g, Fat: 20g
Ingredients
For the Maple Dijon Glaze:
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
- Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a rich flavor to the glaze.
- Dijon Mustard: Provides a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
- Fresh Salmon: The star of the dish, offering a mild, tender flavor that’s perfect for the glaze.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Maple Dijon Glaze:
- Whisk Together Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Set Aside: Set the glaze aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the salmon.
Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Season Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Glaze the Salmon: Spoon the maple Dijon glaze over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Cook the Salmon:
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The glaze should caramelize slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme before serving.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon:
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
- Over Rice: Pair with a bed of fluffy rice, such as jasmine or basmati, to soak up the delicious glaze.
- With a Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a light salad with greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- As Part of a Holiday Meal: Add this dish to your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread for a festive and flavorful option.
- With Quinoa: For a hearty, nutritious side, serve with quinoa or couscous.
- As a Sandwich: Make a salmon sandwich by serving the cooked fillet on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato.
- For Meal Prep: Make a double batch and store leftovers for easy lunch options throughout the week.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
- For an Elegant Dinner: Serve with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, for a sophisticated meal.
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salmon over a bed of sautéed spinach or kale for a light, healthy option.
Additional Tips
- Check for Doneness: To ensure the salmon is cooked perfectly, check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Prevent Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the salmon while it bakes to avoid overcooking, which can dry it out.
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh or thawed salmon works best for this recipe. Frozen salmon can be used, but be sure to thaw it thoroughly.
- Customize the Glaze: Adjust the glaze to your liking by adding a little more mustard for tang or more maple syrup for sweetness.
- Leftovers: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Salmon: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an herby twist.
- Lemon Maple Dijon Salmon: Increase the lemon juice in the glaze for a zesty, citrusy flavor.
- Grilled Maple Dijon Salmon: For a smoky flavor, cook the salmon on a grill instead of in the oven.
- Honey Dijon Glazed Salmon: Swap out the maple syrup for honey for a slightly different sweetness.
Special Equipment
- Sheet Pan: A large, rimmed baking sheet for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Whisk: To combine the glaze ingredients smoothly.
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: For easy cleanup and to prevent the glaze from sticking.
- Meat Thermometer: To check the salmon’s internal temperature and ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
FAQ Section
- What ingredients do I need for Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon?
For this dish, you’ll need fresh salmon fillets, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Optional garnishes include fresh herbs like parsley or dill. - Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best results. - How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For a more tender texture, you can cook it slightly less if you prefer a medium-rare doneness. - Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the maple Dijon glaze in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using. - What vegetables go well with this dish?
This recipe works well with a variety of roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or broccoli. You can add them to the sheet pan alongside the salmon. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. - Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or cod, though cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fish.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the rich, tender salmon with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon glaze. The salmon fillets are coated in the glaze, which is made with pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a splash of vinegar, creating a perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and depth of flavor. Everything is roasted on a single sheet pan, making cleanup easy and the cooking process fast.
This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner. The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the salmon, while the Dijon mustard gives it a zesty kick. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
I can’t wait to see how your Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Glazed Salmon turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!