Dinner

Garlic Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon Recipe

ByAiden Wells February 16, 2026February 16, 2026

Introduction

This Garlic Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced by a rich garlic glaze. It’s an easy, elegant dish that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for family or guests.

A large cooked salmon fillet with a shiny, dark red glaze sits on crinkled aluminum foil shaped like a shallow tray. The salmon is orange-pink, topped with chopped garlic and green herbs scattered evenly over the surface. On the left side, three thin lemon slices lean against the salmon, their yellow color bright and fresh. Around the foil tray, lemon halves and slices add more yellow accents. The scene is set against a white marbled texture with a warm, natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds Atlantic salmon
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of one lemon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Optional garnish: sliced lemons and chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place the salmon on top. Sprinkle the salmon evenly with salt and pepper, then fold up the sides of the foil around the fish to create a packet.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this glaze over the salmon inside the foil packet, then cover the top with another piece of foil and seal tightly.
Step 3: Bake the salmon for 20-25 minutes or until it is cooked through. Remove the top foil carefully, baste the salmon with the sauce collected in the foil, and then broil it for 3-5 minutes until the glaze is browned and caramelized.
Step 4: Garnish with sliced lemons and chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
Swap brown sugar for honey for a different sweetness profile.
You can use other types of fish like trout or cod if salmon isn’t available.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. Leftover glaze can be kept separately in the fridge for up to one week.

How to Serve

A white plate shows a piece of cooked salmon fillet in the center, coated with a glossy reddish-orange sauce and sprinkled with small pieces of garlic and green herbs. To the right of the salmon, there is a neat row of bright green asparagus spears, seasoned lightly with black pepper. On the left side of the salmon, three lemon slices with yellow rinds are arranged in a small stack. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the glaze and season the salmon in advance, storing it covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to bake and broil it just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Is it possible to grill this salmon instead of baking?

Yes! You can grill the salmon using a grill basket or foil packet method. Grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, then baste and caramelize carefully with the glaze to prevent burning.