Texas Roadhouse Grilled Salmon Recipe

Nothing beats the satisfaction of recreating your favorite restaurant meal at home, and this Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon recipe delivers exactly that experience. The perfectly seasoned salmon fillet paired with their signature lemon herb butter creates a restaurant-quality dinner that rivals the original. What makes this Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon so special is the simple yet flavorful marinade that penetrates the fish, creating that unmistakable taste you crave.

This copycat Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon recipe brings the steakhouse experience to your backyard grill with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The secret lies in the timing, seasoning blend, and that irresistible herb butter that makes every bite memorable. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or treating your family to something special, this Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon will become your go-to recipe for impressive yet effortless entertaining.

Background & Why This Grilled Salmon Recipe Stands Out

The Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon has earned its reputation as one of the most requested seafood dishes at the popular steakhouse chain. What sets this particular preparation apart from other grilled salmon recipes is the perfect balance of bold seasoning and delicate cooking technique that preserves the fish's natural moisture. The restaurant's approach to this Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon focuses on enhancing rather than masking the salmon's inherent flavors, making it appealing even to those who typically shy away from fish.

The magic behind this Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon lies in its accessibility and foolproof preparation method. Unlike complicated restaurant techniques that require specialized equipment, this copycat version uses standard grilling methods while achieving professional results. The signature lemon herb butter that accompanies the Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon adds richness without overwhelming the delicate fish, creating a harmonious blend that explains why diners consistently choose this dish over other menu options.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Expert Cooking Tips
• Recipe Variations & Substitutions
• Equipment Recommendations
• Storage & Meal Prep Tips
• Grandma's Secret That Changed Everything
• FAQ
• Savor the Steakhouse Experience at Home
• Related
• Pairing
• Texas Roadhouse Grilled Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• Salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Dried oregano

For the Lemon Herb Butter

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Garlic, minced
• Salt
• Black pepper

For Serving

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley sprigs
• Your choice of sides (rice, roasted vegetables, or salad)

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon and Marinade

1. Remove salmon fillets from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
2. Pat salmon dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adhesion.
3. Brush both sides of salmon with olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
4. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and oregano.
5. Season both sides of salmon generously with the spice mixture, pressing gently to help seasonings adhere.
6. Let salmon rest while you prepare the grill and herb butter.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Herb Butter

1. In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
2. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the butter mixture.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the butter is smooth.
4. Transfer to a small serving bowl or shape into a log using plastic wrap for easier slicing.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).
2. Clean grill grates thoroughly and brush with oil to prevent sticking.
3. Create zones on your grill ; one direct heat area and one indirect heat area for better control.
4. Ensure grill is properly heated before placing salmon to achieve those perfect grill marks.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon to Perfection

1. Place salmon fillets on the direct heat area of the grill, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
2. Grill for 4-5 minutes without moving the fish to develop beautiful grill marks.
3. Carefully flip salmon using a wide spatula and grill for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer ; salmon is done when it reaches 145°F.
5. Remove from grill and immediately top with a dollop of lemon herb butter while the Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon is still hot.

Expert Cooking Tips

Temperature and Timing Mastery

The key to perfect Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon lies in precise temperature control and timing. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F without overcooking. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still remain moist and tender throughout.

• Grill Temperature: Maintain consistent medium-high heat between 400-450°F
• Cooking Time: Generally 4-5 minutes per side for 1-inch thick fillets
• Doneness Test: Look for flesh that's opaque and flakes easily
• Resting Period: Let salmon rest 2-3 minutes after grilling for optimal texture

Seasoning and Preparation Secrets

• Pat salmon completely dry before seasoning to ensure spices adhere properly
• Apply oil first, then seasonings for better flavor penetration
• Let seasoned salmon rest 10-15 minutes before grilling for deeper flavor development
• Score the skin lightly if using skin-on fillets to prevent curling during cooking

Grill Management Techniques

• Oil your grill grates just before cooking to prevent sticking
• Create temperature zones for better cooking control
• Avoid moving the salmon too early ; let it develop proper grill marks
• Keep a spray bottle handy to control flare-ups without disturbing the fish

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Flavor Profile Adaptations

Transform your Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon with these exciting variations while maintaining the core cooking technique. For an Asian-inspired twist, substitute the herb butter with a honey soy glaze and add sesame seeds. Mediterranean lovers can replace the lemon herb butter with a mixture of olive tapenade and sun-dried tomatoes.

• Cajun Style: Add cayenne pepper and paprika to the seasoning blend
• Mediterranean Twist: Use oregano, basil, and feta cheese topping
• Asian Fusion: Replace herb butter with teriyaki glaze and sesame seeds
• Smoky BBQ: Add smoked paprika and chipotle powder to the rub

Dietary Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil mixed with fresh herbs
• Low-Sodium: Use herb blends without added salt and increase lemon juice
• Keto-Friendly: Serve with cauliflower rice and extra herb butter
• Paleo Diet: Use coconut oil instead of butter in the herb mixture

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Indoor Grilling: Use a grill pan over medium-high heat
• Oven Method: Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes
• Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F for 7-10 minutes depending on thickness

Equipment Recommendations

Essential tools make preparing Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon easier and more successful. A reliable meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness every time, while a quality spatula prevents the delicate fish from breaking apart during flipping.

• Digital Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfect 145°F internal temperature
• Wide Fish Spatula: Provides support when flipping delicate salmon fillets
• Grill Brush: Keeps grates clean for better cooking surface
• Tongs: Useful for arranging coals and managing grill temperature
• Basting Brush: Perfect for applying oil and marinades evenly
• Serving Platter: Keeps grilled salmon warm while preparing sides

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Proper storage extends the life of your Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon and maintains its delicious flavor for future meals. Cooked salmon keeps well in the refrigerator and can be repurposed into salads, pasta dishes, or grain bowls throughout the week.

Refrigerator Storage Guidelines

• Fresh Salmon: Store raw salmon up to 2 days in the coldest part of refrigerator
• Cooked Salmon: Refrigerate cooked salmon up to 3-4 days in airtight containers
• Herb Butter: Prepare herb butter up to 1 week ahead and store covered
• Seasoning Mix: Prepare spice blend in bulk and store in airtight container for months

Meal Prep Strategies

• Season salmon fillets the night before for deeper flavor penetration
• Pre-make herb butter and freeze in ice cube trays for individual portions
• Grill extra salmon for quick weekday meals and salad toppers
• Prepare side dishes in advance to streamline dinner preparation

FAQ

Savor the Steakhouse Experience at Home

Creating this Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon at home proves that restaurant-quality meals are achievable in your own kitchen with the right techniques and attention to detail. The combination of proper seasoning, careful grilling, and that signature lemon herb butter transforms a simple salmon fillet into a memorable dining experience. This Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon recipe delivers consistent results that will impress family and guests alike while providing a healthy, delicious meal option.

Once you've mastered this Texas Roadhouse grilled salmon, consider expanding your culinary repertoire with other complementary dishes. Try our Marry Me Salmon Pasta for a creamy, indulgent variation that combines tender salmon with rich pasta sauce, or warm up with our comforting Salmon Soup that transforms leftover grilled salmon into a nourishing, flavorful meal perfect for cooler evenings.

With love from my kitchen to yours,
Aubrey James

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Pairing

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