Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon
Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon is a simple and tasty meal that brings together tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet, sticky maple glaze. Roasted all together on one pan,…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon is a simple and tasty meal that brings together tender salmon fillets coated in a sweet, sticky maple glaze. Roasted all together on one pan, it’s an easy way to get dinner on the table with minimal mess and maximum flavor. The glaze gives the salmon a lovely caramelized finish that makes every bite feel a little special.
I love making this salmon when I want something that feels both healthy and satisfying. Plus, the maple glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the fish. One of my favorite tricks is to throw in some roasted veggies on the same sheet pan so everything cooks evenly and you end up with a full meal in one go—less cleanup is a win in my book!
Serving this salmon with a side of rice or a simple salad turns it into a lovely weeknight dinner that feels a bit fancy without much fuss. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s reliable, delicious, and always earns compliments. Give it a try when you want something tasty but easy, and I bet you’ll want to make it again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon fillets: Fresh or thawed wild or farmed salmon both work well. If you prefer, trout or cod can be a good swap with similar cooking times.
Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and caramelization. Honey or agave syrup can substitute but may change the flavor slightly.
Soy sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free or low-sodium option, try tamari or coconut aminos.
Vegetables: Baby carrots, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and red onion roast beautifully here. Feel free to mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
Lemon slices: Lemon gives a fresh brightness to the dish. If you like, you can use lime or add a splash of lemon juice after roasting.
How Do I Get the Salmon Glaze Just Right Without Burning?
Glazing salmon with maple syrup can cause quick caramelization or burning under high heat. Here’s how to manage it:
- Brush on the glaze just before roasting to avoid burning early.
- Roast at 400°F for 15–18 minutes to cook the fish through and allow glaze to thicken.
- If you want more color, broil for 2–3 minutes right at the end but watch closely to prevent burning.
- You can also reserve some glaze to brush on after cooking for a fresh sticky finish.
These tips keep the salmon tender and flavorful with a beautifully shiny glaze every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large rimmed sheet pan – big enough to hold the salmon and veggies without crowding, so everything roasts evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.
- Whisk or small bowl – for mixing the maple glaze smoothly.
- Basting brush – lets you spread the glaze evenly over the salmon.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for trimming and slicing vegetables and lemon.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for steelhead trout or cod – they hold up well on the sheet pan and take on the glaze beautifully.
- Add chopped fresh ginger or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the glaze – for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Include sweet potatoes or fingerling potatoes – they roast nicely with the other vegetables and add heartiness.
- Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped toasted almonds after baking – adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
Maple Glazed Sheet Pan Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon and Glaze:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For The Vegetables:
- 1 pound baby carrots
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 small red onion, sliced into wedges
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
- Sesame seeds (optional), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes. Roasting the salmon and vegetables takes approximately 15 to 18 minutes. If you choose to broil for a caramelized finish, add another 2-3 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Oven and Sheet Pan:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix The Maple Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Arrange Salmon & Vegetables:
Place the salmon fillets in the center of the prepared sheet pan. Generously brush each fillet with the maple glaze. Arrange baby carrots, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and red onion wedges around the salmon. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then toss gently to coat.
4. Add Lemon Slices:
Place thin lemon slices both on top of and around the salmon and vegetables to infuse fresh flavor during roasting.
5. Roast Everything:
Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
6. Optional Broiling:
For a more caramelized finish, broil the salmon and vegetables for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with the roasted vegetables and lemon slices.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the glaze stick better and prevents steaming.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup work great as alternatives. They’ll add similar sweetness and help create that caramelized glaze on the salmon.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and vegetables 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 flavorful.
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli. Just keep in mind the roasting time might vary slightly depending on the vegetables’ size and density.