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Texas Roadhouse Salmon

Texas Roadhouse Salmon

Recreate the bold, smoky, and juicy Texas Roadhouse Salmon at home with this simple, flavor-packed recipe. Featuring perfectly seared skin-on salmon fillets coated in a balanced seasoning blend of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper, this dish delivers a tender, flaky texture and a restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, it pairs beautifully with classic sides and can be customized for spice level or cooking method.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Fillets

  • 4 skin-on fresh salmon fillets (wild-caught if possible, about 6 oz each)

Seasoning Mix

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Cooking Fat

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Optional Garnishes

  • Lemon wedges
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
  • Garlic butter drizzle
  • Toasted almonds (sprinkle)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly to form the balanced seasoning blend.
  2. Season the salmon fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels for even searing. Rub the seasoning mix generously over both sides of each fillet, pressing it gently into the fish so the flavors adhere well.
  3. Heat your cooking fat: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. This ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the salmon moist inside.
  4. Sear the salmon: Place the fillets skin-side down first in the skillet. Cook without moving for 4 to 5 minutes to develop a golden, crispy crust. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the salmon flakes easily but remains juicy.
  5. Finish and serve: Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for a minute to redistribute juices. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of garnishes such as fresh herbs or a garlic butter drizzle.

Notes

  • Use fresh salmon instead of frozen for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain proper searing heat.
  • Pat the fillets dry before seasoning to help the spices stick and avoid steaming.
  • Allow the salmon to rest after cooking to retain moisture and flavor.
  • Maintain medium to medium-high heat to avoid burning the seasoning mixture.
  • Baking alternative: bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes if preferred.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control spiciness according to taste.
  • Granulated sugar can substitute brown sugar but will slightly alter flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Texas Roadhouse salmon, pan-seared salmon, smoky salmon recipe, easy salmon recipe, quick dinner, seafood dish, salmon fillets