I can still recall that evening when I craved something hearty yet simple. The moment I opened my fridge, my eyes landed on those gorgeous salmon fillets, and I felt inspired. The fiery tang of Buffalo sauce has always held a special place in my heart, and I couldn’t resist the idea of marrying it with the rich, buttery flavors of salmon.
Fast forward to today, and I’m delighted to share my Buffalo Baked Salmon recipe, which transforms the ordinary into something extraordinary. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, you’ll experience a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but also brimming with health benefits. The combination of ghee, spices, and succulent salmon delivers a satisfaction that fast food simply can’t match. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Why is Buffalo Salmon a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Fiery Flavor: The zesty Buffalo sauce elevates the rich taste of salmon, creating an unforgettable dish.
Health Conscious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats from ghee, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Quick Cooking Time: Enjoy a delicious homemade meal in just 25 minutes, saving you from fast food fatigue.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at gatherings, and watch everyone come back for seconds—this dish is always a hit!
Versatile Serving: Pair it with fresh veggies, salads, or your favorite side for a balanced meal that’s truly satisfying.
Buffalo Salmon Ingredients
• Unlock the bold flavors of Buffalo Salmon with these essentials!
For the Salmon
- Salmon fillets – Fresh, wild-caught salmon is best for richness and flavor.
- Melted ghee or avocado oil – Use ghee for a buttery taste, or avocado oil for a lighter option.
- Franks Red Hot sauce – This tangy sauce delivers the classic Buffalo flavor you crave!
- Coconut aminos (optional) – This soy sauce alternative adds a hint of sweetness without soy.
For the Seasoning
- Garlic powder – A key ingredient for savory depth and aroma in your dish.
- Onion powder – Complements the garlic, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Kosher salt – A little salt goes a long way in bringing out the salmon’s natural flavor.
- Black pepper – Adds just the right amount of spice for a balanced kick.
Optional Garnishes
- Dairy-free ranch dressing – Drizzle for a creamy contrast that complements the spiciness.
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives) – Use to brighten the dish and enhance its presentation.
- Green onions – These add crunch and a fresh finishing touch to your Buffalo Salmon.
How to Make Buffalo Salmon
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large casserole dish or rimmed baking sheet by lightly greasing it with ghee or oil to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the salmon by removing any bones and patting dry with a paper towel. Place the fillets in a large bowl or Tupperware, ready for the marinade.
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Whisk together melted ghee, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, coconut aminos (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Make sure to reserve about 1/3 of the sauce for later.
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Coat the salmon fillets by pouring the remaining 2/3 of the sauce over them. Turn the fillets gently to coat thoroughly, then allow them to marinate in the refrigerator, flesh side down, for 10 minutes.
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Arrange the salmon fillets in the greased baking dish, ensuring they’re flesh side up and spaced evenly apart. Sprinkle the tops with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
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Bake the salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness, until it’s cooked through and flaky.
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Broil for two to three minutes before it’s done. Increase the oven temperature and brush the fillets with the reserved sauce. Broil until the top is slightly crisp, about 2 minutes.
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Serve the Buffalo Salmon with a drizzle of dairy-free ranch, extra Franks Red Hot sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs and green onions as desired.
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Salmon
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Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon fillets for optimal flavor and health benefits. Frozen salmon is fine too, but make sure it’s properly thawed before cooking.
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Marinate for Extra Flavor: Allow the salmon to marinate in the Buffalo sauce for at least 10 minutes. This infuses the fish with fiery flavor and prevents it from drying out.
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Watch Cooking Time: Monitor the baking time closely; thicker fillets may need a bit more time. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to tough, dry salmon.
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Enhance the Crisp: Broiling towards the end creates a delicious crispy layer on top of the salmon. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
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Customize the Heat: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of Frank’s Red Hot sauce or replace it with a milder hot sauce.
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Serve Smart: Take advantage of optional garnishes like dairy-free ranch dressing and fresh herbs to elevate your Buffalo Salmon presentation and add freshness.
What to Serve with Buffalo Baked Salmon?
Crafting a meal around your vibrant Buffalo Baked Salmon is a delightful journey. Let these tasty side dishes perfectly complement the bold flavors of your favorite dish!
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool crunch of coleslaw balances the spicy kick of salmon, providing a refreshing contrast on your plate.
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Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus adds a nutty flavor and an elegant touch, harmonizing beautifully with the savory salmon.
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Quinoa Pilaf: A warm and fluffy quinoa pilaf enriched with herbs offers a nutty base that pairs well with the zesty salmon.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: They bring a delightful crunch and a slightly sweet element that perfectly offsets the salmon’s heat.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet and crispy, these fries add a hearty side, complementing the fiery taste of the salmon with a touch of sweetness.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with herbs brightens the meal and offers a palate-cleansing experience.
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Icy Lemonade: A tall glass of icy lemonade serves as a fantastic thirst-quencher that refreshes after each spicy bite.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate avocado mousse—decadent yet healthy, it’s the perfect sweet ending to your flavorful feast!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Salmon
Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo Salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while ensuring optimal freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the salmon in a well-sealed freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the broiler for a few minutes for a crispy finish.
Serving Tips: Revive the dish by adding fresh garnishes like herbs and a drizzle of dairy-free ranch dressing upon serving for that just-cooked taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Salmon fillets are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the salmon in the delicious sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply coat the fillets, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This marination allows the flavors to deepen while keeping the fish fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce separately and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just preheat the oven, place the marinated salmon in the baking dish, and bake for 12-15 minutes. With these simple make-ahead strategies, you can serve a scrumptious Buffalo Salmon dinner with ease and save valuable time on busy weeknights!
Buffalo Salmon Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists on this savory dish that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra heat boost.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully with salmon.
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Sweet Twist: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup alongside the sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor combo.
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Crispy Topping: Mix gluten-free breadcrumbs with a bit of ghee and sprinkle on top before broiling for a nice crunch.
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Citrus Burst: Add lemon or lime juice to the marinade for a zesty kick that brightens the dish splendidly.
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Creamy Addition: Swirl in a spoonful of tahini into the sauce for added creaminess and a nutty flavor.
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Veggie Boost: Toss asparagus or broccoli in a little ghee and seasoning, and roast alongside the salmon for a complete meal.
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Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the finished dish for a sweet tang that complements the buffalo flavor beautifully.
Buffalo Baked Salmon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right salmon fillets?
Absolutely! When selecting salmon, I always recommend opting for fresh, wild-caught fillets for the best flavor. Look for salmon with vibrant color and a slightly firm texture. If you’re buying frozen, make sure it’s properly thawed and has been stored at a consistent temperature.
What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Salmon?
Leftover Buffalo Salmon can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before placing it in the fridge to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Buffalo Salmon?
Yes, you can! For freezing, place the salmon in a well-sealed freezer bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight, and then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispy finish, you can broil it for a couple of minutes.
What should I do if my salmon is overcooked?
Oh no! If you notice that your salmon is overcooked, I suggest serving it with a drizzle of your favorite sauce—like a dairy-free ranch or extra hot sauce—to help add moisture. You can also flake the salmon into a salad or wrap it in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a tasty meal!
Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
Always good to check! This Buffalo Baked Salmon recipe contains ghee, which is dairy-free, but people with specific allergies should be aware that ingredients like Frank’s Red Hot sauce may contain preservatives or allergens. If you’re unsure, read the label carefully. You can also modify the recipe by using alternatives like homemade sauces to cater to dietary restrictions.
Can my pet eat salmon?
Yes! Salmon can be a healthy treat for dogs, as long as it’s cooked without any seasonings. Just ensure it’s deboned and served in moderation. However, always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Savory Buffalo Salmon Baked to Crispy Perfection at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large casserole dish or rimmed baking sheet by lightly greasing it with ghee or oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the salmon by removing any bones and patting dry with a paper towel. Place the fillets in a large bowl or Tupperware, ready for the marinade.
- Whisk together melted ghee, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, coconut aminos (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Make sure to reserve about 1/3 of the sauce for later.
- Coat the salmon fillets by pouring the remaining 2/3 of the sauce over them. Turn the fillets gently to coat thoroughly, then allow them to marinate in the refrigerator, flesh side down, for 10 minutes.
- Arrange the salmon fillets in the greased baking dish, ensuring they’re flesh side up and spaced evenly apart. Sprinkle the tops with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Bake the salmon in the oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness, until it's cooked through and flaky.
- Broil for two to three minutes before it’s done. Increase the oven temperature and brush the fillets with the reserved sauce. Broil until the top is slightly crisp, about 2 minutes.
- Serve the Buffalo Salmon with a drizzle of dairy-free ranch, extra Franks Red Hot sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs and green onions as desired.