This Alton Brown Salmon Recipe is a quick and perfectly seared fish dish, which uses fresh king salmon and simple seasoning. It’s a restaurant-quality dish, ready in about 20 minutes.
Alton Brown Salmon Recipe Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) skinless king salmon fillet, 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 inches thick, pin bones removed
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How To Make Alton Brown Salmon
- Preheat the oven: Heat oven to 475ºF.
- Heat the pan: Set a 10-inch oven-safe sauté pan over medium heat for 2 minutes.
- Season the salmon: Brush the salmon fillet with vegetable oil and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the salmon: Place the fillet flesh side down in the hot pan. Cook without moving it for 3 minutes.
- Finish in the oven: Flip the salmon, transfer the pan to the oven, and bake for 5 minutes.
- Rest and serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and transfer to a plate. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips
-
Can I use another type of salmon?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time for thinner cuts like sockeye or coho. -
Why rest the salmon after cooking?
Resting helps redistribute the juices, making the fish more moist and tender. -
What’s the best oil to use?
Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable or avocado oil for searing. -
How to tell if salmon is done:
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center.
What To Serve With Salmon
Pair this simple salmon with light, flavorful sides like:
- Roasted asparagus
- Lemon rice pilaf
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Mixed greens with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli with lemon
How To Store Salmon
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Salmon Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I make this with skin-on salmon?
Yes, sear skin-side down first and adjust timing if needed.
Do I need to use king salmon?
No, but king salmon is known for its rich flavor and thick cut, which works best with this method.
Can I cook this entirely on the stovetop?
It’s possible, but finishing in the oven ensures even cooking without over-searing.
Should I marinate the salmon first?
This recipe is designed for a clean, crisp sear without a marinade. You can add a glaze or sauce after cooking if desired.
Try More Recipes:
- Alton Brown Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe
- Alton Brown Enchilada Lasagna Recipe
- Alton Brown Grilled Cheese Recipe
Alton Brown Salmon Recipe
Description
A quick and flavorful salmon fillet seared on the stovetop and finished in the oven for tender, juicy results.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 475ºF.
- Heat an oven-safe sauté pan over medium heat for 2 minutes.
- Brush salmon with oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place fillet flesh side down in the pan and cook for 3 minutes.
- Flip salmon, transfer to oven, and bake for 5 minutes.
- Remove, cover with foil, and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
