Firecracker Salmon
There’s something magical about a recipe that comes together quickly but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, and that’s exactly why Firecracker Salmon has become a staple in our household. The first time I made this, I was looking for a way to bring bold flavors to our usual weeknight salmon without adding too much extra work. The combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes instantly won over everyone at the dinner table. My husband, who is usually skeptical of anything spicy, couldn’t stop raving about the perfect balance of heat and flavor, and even my kids asked for seconds—a true sign of success! I love how the sticky glaze clings to every bite of the tender, flaky salmon, making it taste like something you’d order at a restaurant but with all the comfort of a homemade meal. It’s also one of my favorite “back-pocket” recipes because it works for both weeknight dinners and impressing guests. Whenever we have friends over, I simply double the recipe, pop it in the oven, and within 20 minutes, I’ve got something that looks—and tastes—like I went all out. Plus, cleanup is minimal because everything cooks on one sheet pan. If you’re looking for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet simple enough for a busy week, this Firecracker Salmon is a must-try.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating for the best texture and flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
It has a moderate kick, but you can adjust the spice by reducing the hot sauce or adding a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?
Absolutely. The grill adds a nice smoky flavor. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning the glaze.
What sides go well with Firecracker Salmon?
We love serving it with jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad for a lighter meal.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Cooked salmon keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
What You Need to Make Firecracker Salmon
2 lbs salmon fillet (skin on or off)
1/4 cup hot sauce (like sriracha)
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp lime juice (plus extra for serving)
2 tbsp honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)
Special Equipment: Baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup
How to Make Firecracker Salmon
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with olive oil.
Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix hot sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, and ground ginger until well combined.
Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillet on the baking sheet. Pat dry with paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
Glaze the salmon: Pour half of the sauce over the salmon and use a spoon or brush to coat evenly. Reserve the remaining sauce for later.
Bake: Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until it flakes easily with a fork.
Finish with more glaze: Brush the remaining sauce over the salmon and return to the oven for 2 more minutes to caramelize slightly.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Making the Best Firecracker Salmon
For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for 15–30 minutes before baking.
If you prefer a milder dish, replace half the hot sauce with ketchup or sweet chili sauce.
Use skin-on salmon for added moisture and easy removal from the pan.
Want crispy edges? Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This is now my go-to salmon recipe. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. My kids even loved it!” – Sarah M.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really tasty! I’ll probably cut back on the spice next time for my family, but I loved it.” – James P.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for busy nights. The sweet-spicy glaze is amazing, and cleanup was a breeze.” – Amanda R.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “It was good but a bit too sweet for me. Next time I’ll add more hot sauce and less sugar.” – Caroline L.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Restaurant-quality flavor in under 20 minutes. Highly recommend!” – David H.
Printable Recipe
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Firecracker Salmon
Firecracker Salmon is a sweet and spicy oven-baked salmon recipe topped with a bold, sticky glaze made from hot sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, honey, and garlic. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a show-stopping main dish that’s secretly easy to make.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs salmon fillet (skin on or off)
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (like sriracha)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Special Equipment: Baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix hot sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, and ground ginger until well combined.
- Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillet on the baking sheet. Pat dry with paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Glaze the salmon: Pour half of the sauce over the salmon and use a spoon or brush to coat evenly. Reserve the remaining sauce for later.
- Bake: Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish with more glaze: Brush the remaining sauce over the salmon and return to the oven for 2 more minutes to caramelize slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions and serve with lime wedges on the side.
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