Name: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Zest of 1 lemon; 4 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1/2 lemon; Optional: lemon slices and fresh parsley for garnish

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This copycat Texas Roadhouse salmon is tender, flaky, and packed with savory, buttery flavor—just like the one served at the restaurant. It’s seasoned with a perfect blend of spices and grilled or baked to perfection, then brushed with a lemony butter glaze. I love how quick and simple it is to make while still delivering that restaurant-quality taste right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both healthy and indulgent at the same time. The seasoning blend gives the salmon a flavorful crust, while the lemon-butter glaze adds a rich, fresh finish. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or an easy dinner party dish. Plus, it pairs well with almost any side—from veggies to rice or salad.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
olive oil
salt
black pepper
paprika
garlic powder
onion powder
dried parsley
brown sugar
butter
lemon juice
lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill to medium-high.
I pat the salmon dry and brush it with olive oil.
I mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and dried parsley.
I rub the seasoning blend evenly over the salmon fillets.
If baking, I place the salmon on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. If grilling, I grill skin-side down for 6–8 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes.
While the salmon cooks, I melt the butter in a small saucepan and stir in fresh lemon juice.
I brush the lemon butter over the hot salmon just before serving and garnish with lemon slices and parsley if I want an extra touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a bit of cayenne pepper for heat or use smoked paprika for extra depth. I’ve also swapped the lemon juice for orange juice for a sweeter citrus glaze. When I want more richness, I add a splash of white wine or Dijon mustard to the butter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter. I avoid microwaving to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and cooking. Removing excess moisture helps it sear better.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, I sear the salmon in a hot skillet with a little oil, cooking 3–4 minutes per side until browned and flaky.

Is the brown sugar necessary?

It helps balance the spices and gives a light caramelized crust. If I want it less sweet, I reduce the amount or skip it entirely.

What sides go well with this salmon?

I often serve it with garlic mashed potatoes, seasoned rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center. A food thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.

Conclusion

This copycat Texas Roadhouse salmon recipe gives me all the bold, buttery flavor of the original with the comfort of a homemade meal. It’s quick, easy, and packed with seasoning that makes each bite rich and satisfying. Whether I bake, grill, or pan-sear it, this salmon is always a reliable go-to when I want a dish that feels both simple and special.