One evening, after a long day in the kitchen experimenting with flavors, I discovered the magic of maple Dijon salmon. The sweet maple syrup paired with tangy Dijon mustard created a glaze that turned ordinary salmon into a family favorite. This maple Dijon baked salmon is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its customizable flavors make it a comfortable, balanced dish everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Maple Dijon Baked Salmon is a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The sweet maple syrup combined with tangy Dijon mustard creates a glaze that transforms ordinary salmon into a restaurant-quality meal at home. This maple Dijon salmon is not only easy to prepare but also customizable—add lemon juice, garlic, or smoked paprika to suit your taste. Its sheet pan version makes cleanup effortless, while the marinade option allows for deeper, richer flavors. You can also try maple Dijon salmon in an air fryer for a crispy, golden finish or make a crusted version for extra texture. Ideal for balanced dinners, this baked salmon with maple syrup and mustard pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a maple Dijon salmon recipe featured on Food Network inspiration or a home-cooked classic like maple mustard salmon from Canadian Living, this dish is simple, comforting, and full of flavor—making it a must-try for salmon lovers everywhere.
Ingredients for This Recipe
To make the perfect maple Dijon baked salmon, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients that balance sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The salmon fillets provide a tender, flaky base that pairs beautifully with the maple Dijon glaze. Dijon mustard adds a tangy punch, while pure maple syrup brings natural sweetness that caramelizes during baking. Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors, and garlic and smoked paprika add depth and warmth. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors, and optional garnishes like parsley and lemon wedges give the dish a fresh, vibrant finish. Using this combination ensures a maple Dijon salmon that’s juicy, flavorful, and visually appealing, whether you bake it on a sheet pan, try it in an air fryer, or make a crusted version for extra texture. This ingredient lineup keeps the recipe quick, easy, and family-friendly while maximizing flavor in every bite.
🛒 Ingredients (serves 4):
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Maple Dijon Glaze:
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Pinch of salt and black pepper
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
How to Make This Recipe
Making maple Dijon baked salmon is simple, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Start with fresh salmon fillets, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil to enhance their natural flavor. The star of the dish is the maple Dijon glaze—a combination of Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, lemon juice, garlic, and smoked paprika that creates a sweet, tangy coating that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Baking on a sheet pan ensures even cooking, while options like air fryer maple Dijon salmon or crusted maple Dijon salmon give you versatility. This method keeps the salmon juicy inside, while the glaze forms a rich, flavorful exterior. Whether paired with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa, this baked salmon with maple syrup and mustard delivers a quick, easy, and irresistible dinner that’s family-friendly, balanced, and bursting with flavor.
🛒 Steps:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it
Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt and black pepper
In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to make the maple Dijon glaze
Brush glaze generously over salmon fillets, reserving a little for later
Bake salmon for 12–15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork
Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a caramelized finish
Drizzle with remaining glaze and garnish with parsley and lemon wedges
Serve maple Dijon baked salmon with your favorite sides
Expert Cooking Tips
Creating the perfect maple Dijon baked salmon is all about balancing flavors and cooking techniques. Fresh salmon fillets are key, providing a tender, flaky base that absorbs the sweet and tangy maple Dijon glaze. Using high-quality Dijon mustard and pure maple syrup ensures the glaze caramelizes beautifully while baking, giving the salmon a rich, flavorful crust. Lemon juice brightens the dish, and garlic and smoked paprika deepen the flavor. Whether you’re making a sheet pan maple Dijon salmon, a crusted version, or trying maple Dijon salmon in an air fryer, these tips will keep your baked salmon with maple syrup and mustard juicy, flavorful, and irresistible every time. Small adjustments like marinating briefly, patting the salmon dry before glazing, and finishing under the broiler can elevate your maple Dijon salmon to a restaurant-quality dish at home.
💡 Expert Tips:
Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture
Pat salmon dry before brushing with maple Dijon glaze to ensure caramelization
Marinate salmon in the maple Dijon glaze for 30 minutes for deeper flavor
Bake on a sheet pan for even cooking and easy cleanup
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a golden, caramelized finish
Try an air fryer for a crispy, quick maple Dijon salmon alternative
Optional: Make a crusted maple Dijon salmon with breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for extra texture
Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges for freshness and visual appeal
FAQs
What is the best way to cook maple Dijon salmon?
Maple Dijon salmon can be baked on a sheet pan, air-fried, or broiled. Baking ensures even cooking and a juicy interior, while air fryer maple Dijon salmon gives a crisp, caramelized finish.
How long should I marinate salmon for maple Dijon baked salmon?
For maximum flavor, marinate the salmon in the maple Dijon glaze for 30 minutes up to 2 hours. This allows the sweet and tangy flavors to penetrate without “cooking” the fish.
Can I make a crusted maple Dijon salmon?
Yes! Combine maple Dijon glaze with breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to create a crunchy crust. Bake as usual for a flavorful, textured twist on baked salmon with maple syrup and mustard.
What sides go well with maple Dijon baked salmon?
Maple Dijon salmon pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh salad or steamed greens to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.
Can I prepare maple Dijon salmon ahead of time?
You can prep the glaze and marinate the salmon in advance, storing it in the fridge for a few hours. Bake just before serving to ensure the salmon remains tender and the glaze caramelized.
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Maple Dijon baked salmon is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen. The sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard glaze creates a perfectly balanced flavor that is both family-friendly and impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you bake it on a sheet pan, try a crusted version, or make maple Dijon salmon in the air fryer, this baked salmon with maple syrup and mustard is easy, customizable, and packed with delicious, juicy goodness. Perfect for weeknights or celebrations, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Print
Maple Dijon Baked Salmon
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A perfectly baked salmon fillet glazed with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon mustard sauce. Quick, flavorful, and ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The salmon stays tender and juicy while the glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 4):
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Maple Dijon Glaze:
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
Pinch of salt and black pepper
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Season & Glaze Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush generously with the maple Dijon glaze, reserving a small amount for later.
Step 4: Bake Salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a caramelized finish.
Step 5: Serve
Drizzle with remaining glaze, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. Perfect with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Marinate for More Flavor: Marinate salmon in the glaze for 30 minutes before baking.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for a crispier finish.
- Crispy Skin Tip: Pat skin dry and bake skin-side up for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American / Canadian-Inspired