8-Minute Broiled Salmon with Simple Seasoning

This is the simplest, most reliable way to cook salmon — and it only takes 8 minutes under the broiler. Season the fillets with a simple homemade salmon seasoning, slide them under the broiler, and you’ll have dinner on the table in under 20 minutes.

If you enjoy more saucy versions like honey-sriracha broiled salmon, consider this the back-to-basics approach: no glaze, no fuss—just perfectly seasoned, caramelized salmon with a flaky interior every time.

Why You’ll Love This Broiled Salmon

• Fast and easy: Ready in about 18 minutes — roughly 10 minutes of prep and 8 minutes under the broiler.
• Minimal ingredients: Salmon, avocado oil, and a simple salmon seasoning — that’s all you need.
• Consistently flaky: The broiler creates a nicely caramelized top while keeping the center tender and flaky.
• Healthy and allergen-friendly: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Versatile all year: Serve with roasted vegetables in cool months or a crisp salad in warm weather.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Salmon filets: About 1.5 lb total (4 filets). Choose fillets similar in thickness so they cook evenly.
• Avocado oil: Ideal for high heat; use a light spray or rub it on the fish.
• Simple salmon seasoning: A mix of smoky and slightly sweet spices. Make a batch ahead and keep it in your pantry for quick meals.

How to Broil Salmon

Broiling is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps to get perfectly broiled salmon every time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to broil on high and position the rack so the top of the salmon will sit a few inches from the broiler element. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Oil and Season

Arrange the salmon filets on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or rub each filet with avocado oil to help the seasoning adhere and to promote browning. Generously season the fillets with your salmon seasoning, pressing the rub into the flesh on all sides.

Step 3: Broil

Slide the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for about 8 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillets; the salmon is done when it reaches about 125–130°F internally and flakes easily with a fork.

Tips for the Best Broiled Salmon

• Check thickness: Thicker fillets may need an extra 1–2 minutes; thinner pieces can finish sooner. Use an instant-read thermometer for precision.
• Don’t skip the oil: A thin coat of oil helps the spice mixture stick and yields a glossy, caramelized top.
• Use parchment: Salmon can cling to pans; parchment keeps the fish intact and speeds cleanup.
• Monitor closely: Broilers vary in heat. Start checking at 6 minutes to avoid overcooking.

What to Serve with Broiled Salmon

Broiled salmon pairs with many sides. Try these simple, complementary options:

• Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
• Steamed rice: White, brown, or cilantro-lime rice
• Fresh salad: Mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted potatoes: Crispy baby potatoes or sweet potato wedges

Storage

Keep leftover broiled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 275°F oven for 5–10 minutes to avoid drying it out. Cold leftover salmon is also excellent flaked over salads or tossed into grain bowls.

More Salmon Recipes

If you love salmon, try different preparations to keep weeknights exciting: honey-sriracha broiled salmon, pan-seared salmon with lemon butter, oven-baked salmon in foil, or grilled foil-pack salmon with pineapple salsa. These variations offer a range of flavors while keeping preparation simple and fast.