If you’ve ever ordered the Texas Roadhouse Salmon, you know it’s one of the best things on the menu — juicy, perfectly seasoned, and brushed with that sweet, savory butter glaze. The good news? You can make it right at home with just a few ingredients and one skillet. This copycat recipe delivers all that smoky, melt-in-your-mouth flavor you love, without needing a reservation.
The first time I tried recreating it, I was honestly shocked by how easy it was. I melted butter, whisked in a touch of brown sugar, lemon, and garlic, and brushed it over fresh salmon fillets as they cooked. The smell alone made the kitchen feel like a restaurant. Now, it’s become one of my go-to dinners, right next to my French Onion Ground Beef and Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes.
Texas Roadhouse Salmon (Copycat Recipe)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add brown sugar, honey, garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with the glaze as they cook.
- Once the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a caramelized glaze, remove from heat. Brush with one last layer of glaze, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Texas Roadhouse Salmon
This recipe gives you that same steakhouse-quality salmon — caramelized on the outside, flaky inside, and topped with a rich honey-garlic glaze. It’s done in under 20 minutes and pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, rice, or a simple side salad.
If you love restaurant-style meals like my Copycat Olive Garden Pasta or Garten’s Shepherd’s Pie, this salmon will become a regular on your dinner menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional for depth)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley
If you enjoy bold, balanced flavors, you’ll also love my Cajun Potato Soup — it’s got that same rich, savory-sweet kick in every bite.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Salmon
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add brown sugar, honey, garlic, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with the glaze as they cook.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has a caramelized glaze, remove from heat. Brush with one last layer of glaze, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
If you like quick skillet dinners, this one’s as easy and flavorful as my Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup.
Tips for Perfect Texas Roadhouse Salmon
- Don’t overcook: Salmon is best when it flakes easily but stays moist in the center.
- Use fresh fillets: Fresh or thawed salmon gives the best texture and flavor.
- Brush often: That buttery glaze is the secret to restaurant-level flavor.
- Try the grill: For smoky flavor, this recipe works perfectly on an outdoor grill.
Just like in my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, little details — like basting and timing — make a big difference in taste.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra butter.
Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon fillets (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Brush with fresh glaze when reheating.
Like my Cabbage Detox Soup, this dish keeps beautifully and makes for easy meal prep.
Flavor Variations
- Maple Glazed Salmon: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- Garlic Herb Salmon: Add chopped dill or thyme to the butter glaze.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in ¼ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Citrus Twist: Use orange juice instead of lemon for a sweeter tang.
If you like recipes with customizable flavor profiles, you’ll love my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup — just as adaptable and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I bake instead of pan-sear?
Absolutely — bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.
3. What sides go best with it?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf pair perfectly.
4. Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes — just add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
The Final Bite
This Texas Roadhouse Salmon is buttery, caramelized, and full of rich, garlicky flavor. It’s restaurant-quality but easy enough for a weeknight. Every bite is flaky, sweet, and savory — proof that simple ingredients can make something truly special.
Serve it with roasted potatoes, Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, or even a crisp salad for a meal that’s wholesome and full of comfort.