This Right Here Will Ruin Plain Salmon Forever
This Sweet Heat Scored Salmon by Candace Hawk is bold, sticky, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy. Scoring the salmon allows every inch to soak up that sweet brown sugar + Cajun spice glaze, giving you flavor in every single bite.
Finished under the broiler for that caramelized, slightly charred top, this is one of those recipes that has people asking, “Who made this?”
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 1 whole salmon filet
For the Sweet Heat Rub:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup olive oil
- 4 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 4 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 heavy pinches kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1½ tbsp smoked chili flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Salmon
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Trim and score the salmon diagonally both ways to create a crosshatch pattern.
2. Make the Glaze
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili flakes until smooth.
3. Season Generously
- Rub the mixture all over the salmon, making sure it gets deep into the scored cuts.
4. Bake
- Place salmon on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Rest & Serve
- Let rest a few minutes.
- Serve and enjoy.
Pro Tips and Suggestions
- Don’t skip scoring—it’s key for flavor
- Use your hands to really work in the seasoning
- Baste with pan drippings while baking
- Watch closely under broiler to avoid burning
- Serve with rice, greens, or roasted veggies
About the Creator
This recipe is by Candace Hawk, the creator behind @candacehawk. She’s known for bold, crave-worthy recipes that turn everyday meals into flavor-packed experiences.
Candace Hawk | @candacehawk