Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon
Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a tasty dinner with minimal cleanup. The salmon fillets get a sweet and sticky glaze made with…
Tip: save now, cook later.Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a tasty dinner with minimal cleanup. The salmon fillets get a sweet and sticky glaze made with maple syrup that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Paired with a few fresh veggies roasted right alongside it, this dish feels both cozy and fresh.
I love how easy this recipe is to throw together on a busy weeknight. Just brush the maple glaze over the salmon, spread your veggies on the sheet pan, and pop everything into the oven. I usually add some sliced bell peppers or green beans, and the smoky-sweet flavor from the glaze makes everything taste extra special without any extra effort.
One of my favorite things about this meal is how well it impresses guests and family alike, even though it’s so quick to make. I like serving it with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the glaze, and sometimes I sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. It’s a recipe that feels warm and satisfying but never heavy, perfect for any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets give the best flavor and texture. If you want, skin-on works too—just roast skin-side down for crispy edges. Wild-caught salmon often tastes richer, but farmed is fine for this recipe.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze. You can swap it with honey or agave syrup if you prefer or need a different sweetener.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy, slightly sharp flavor that balances the sweetness. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard or whole grain mustard works well too.
Soy Sauce or Tamari: Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami depth. For gluten-free, tamari is a good alternative. Coconut aminos can work if avoiding soy altogether.
Vegetables: Baby potatoes, Brussels sprouts, red onion, and asparagus roast well alongside salmon and add lovely colors and textures. Feel free to swap veggies based on what you like or have like green beans or bell peppers.
How Do You Make the Perfect Maple Glaze and Get Salmon That’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika well. This combo balances sweet, salty, tangy, and smoky flavors that stick beautifully to salmon.
- Brush the glaze generously on salmon right before roasting to get a sticky coating.
- Don’t overcook the salmon—15-18 minutes at 400°F usually keeps it tender and juicy.
- Broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end caramelizes the glaze and adds a nice crust—keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Toss veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then arrange around the salmon so they roast evenly. The maple glaze drips and mingles with them, boosting their flavor. Using a sheet pan keeps everything simple with less clean-up!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large rimmed baking sheet – perfect for cooking salmon and veggies all at once with plenty of space.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Small mixing bowl – for whisking together the maple glaze ingredients smoothly.
- Basting brush – lets you spread the glaze evenly over the salmon for a sticky, flavorful coating.
- Tongs or spatula – useful for turning veggies and serving the salmon without breaking it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for trout or cod fillets – both catch the glaze well and roast nicely on the sheet pan.
- Add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick that contrasts sweet maple syrup.
- Use fresh thyme or rosemary with the veggies for a fragrant, earthy twist.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms or cherry tomatoes on the pan for extra color and flavor.
How to Make Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon and Glaze:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Lemon slices
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to cook. If you choose to broil for extra caramelization, add a couple of minutes more. Overall, you should have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large sheet pan or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Make the Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and red onion wedges with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables evenly on the sheet pan, leaving space for the salmon.
4. Arrange Salmon and Asparagus:
Place the salmon fillets on the sheet pan and brush each generously with the maple glaze. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle the asparagus with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and arrange it around the salmon and vegetables.
5. Roast:
Roast everything in the oven for 15-18 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Optional Broil for Caramelization:
If you want a nicely caramelized top on the salmon, broil it on high for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pan from the oven and garnish the salmon with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley or chives if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the salmon completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture so the glaze sticks well and the salmon roasts evenly.
Can I Make This Sheet Pan Meal Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the glaze and chop the veggies a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated separately, then assemble and roast just before serving for best freshness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the salmon moist and the vegetables tasty.
What Can I Substitute For the Vegetables?
Feel free to swap any of the veggies for what you have on hand. Broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers all roast well and pair beautifully with maple glazed salmon.
