This Texas Roadhouse Salmon is flaky, flavorful, and bursting with taste! Grilled to perfection and often served with a zesty lemon butter sauce, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
I love how easy it is to make at home. Pair it with some veggies or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a delicious meal that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh salmon when possible for the best flavor. If salmon isn’t available, you can use trout or another fatty fish like mackerel which will give a similar texture.
Spices: Paprika is key for color and flavor. If looking for less heat, omit the cayenne pepper. You can also use a pre-made blackening seasoning if you want to save time.
Olive Oil or Butter: I like using butter for a richer flavor, but olive oil works well too, especially for a healthier option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Salmon?
Getting perfect grill marks requires a few important steps. First, preheat your grill properly; it should be nice and hot before putting the salmon on it. This makes it easier to sear and gives you those beautiful grill marks.
- Do not move the salmon for the first few minutes – this helps to form a crust.
- Only flip it carefully using a spatula, ensuring the skin side is down first.
- Cook until the salmon is two-thirds done before flipping; this ensures it stays moist.
Patience is key, but the results are well worth it!

Texas Roadhouse Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless as preferred
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
For Serving:
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salmon recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to cook. With a total time of around 30 minutes, you can enjoy a fantastic meal that feels upscale yet is so simple to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This will be the flavorful seasoning rub for your salmon!
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This ensures a nice crust forms when grilling. Next, brush each fillet lightly with olive oil or melted butter for added flavor.
3. Season the Salmon:
Generously rub the seasoning mix over all sides of the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it over medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). This step is essential for achieving that perfect sear!
5. Grill the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on the grill skin-side down (if applicable). Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until grill marks develop and they are cooked about two-thirds through.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip each salmon fillet and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes until fully cooked through and the fish flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps to retain moisture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
8. Optional Sides:
If desired, pair your salmon with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans with diced carrots for a complete meal. Enjoy!
This recipe perfectly captures the delicious blackened style of Texas Roadhouse salmon with a hint of spice and smoky flavor. Enjoy your homemade meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in a sealed bag in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness?
If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount. You can also use sweet paprika instead of regular paprika for a less spicy seasoning.
What Should I Serve with the Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a healthier option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out.
