Craving an easy dinner you’ll actually look forward to? This Simply Smoked Salmon with a Hot Honey Garlic Glaze is one you’re going to want on repeat. It’s an easy way to get tender, smoky salmon right at home with simple steps and seriously great results. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it comes together with barely any effort but still feels like something special.

Simply Smoked Salmon with hot honey garlic glaze

If you’ve been looking for new smoked salmon recipes, this one is a keeper. It’s also a great go-to if you’re learning how to smoke salmon filets, or just want an easy Traeger smoked salmon method that turns out amazing every single time. This hot smoked salmon is great for entertaining over the Summer or anytime you find some salmon filets or portions at a decent price.

Why I Love This Smoked Salmon Recipe

Simple prep the night before you want to cook
Works great on a pellet grill or in the oven
Sweet and spicy glaze adds extra flavor
Great for meal prep or quick dinners
My kids actually enjoy this salmon recipe

We have been making smoked salmon for years. There are many different methods, some take the step to pre-brine and some just cook it as you would in the oven. My husband likes making a wet brine and we also have had it with a dry brine which I have found to be pretty salty.

My local Kroger had some salmon portions marked down last week so I decided to try my own method, and here it is! I love this quick and easy hot honey glaze that goes on at the end…and guess what? My kids even liked to, bonus points! The results are flaky salmon with a slight sweet and flavorful finish. So if you are looking to lear how to smoke salmon- I’ve got you.

What is pellicle?

A pellicle is a thin, tacky, slightly shiny layer that forms on the surface of fish (like salmon) after it’s been cured and air-dried before smoking. Why is it important? It helps the smoke stick better to the fish.
It creates a more even, richer smoke flavor. And it also gives the salmon a better texture and finish so it’s not mushy or wet.

Just getting started with your pellet grill? Try my how to smoke a brisket, too!

Ingredients needed for this Traeger Smoked Salmon Recipe

🍯 Salmon Portions – This is the main event! Go for fresh, good-quality salmon so you get that tender, smoky result we’re after. Or of course this works the same for a whole filet.

🍯 Kosher Salt Flakes – This is what helps build flavor from the start. It seasons the salmon and pulls out a bit of moisture overnight so everything smokes up beautifully.

🍯 Brown Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness and helps balance out the salt. It also helps create that gorgeous smoked finish.

🍯 Sugar – Works right alongside the brown sugar to round out the cure and give the salmon a nice texture once it’s smoked.

🍯 Hot Honey – This is where the magic happens! Sweet, sticky, and with a little kick—it’s what makes the glaze so good. I have been using Aldi’s brand and it tastes great!

🍯 Soy Sauce – Adds that savory, salty depth that keeps the glaze from being too sweet. It ties everything together.

🍯 Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic gives the glaze a bold punch of flavor and makes the whole thing smell amazing while it cooks. If you want it to spread more evenly, just use garlic powder.

🍯 Red Pepper Flakes – For a little heat! Add as much or as little as you like depending on how spicy you want it. I love this Four Pepper Blend from Flat Iron.

✨Helpful Kitchen Tools for this recipe

Baking Dish or Sheet Pan
Baking/Cooling Rack
Pellet Grill or Smoker- I used our Traeger wood pellet grill.
Wood Pellets of choice

How to smoke salmon on a pellet grill or smoker

Step 1: Dry brine the salmon. The night before, season the salmon with kosher salt, brown sugar, and sugar. Place it on a tray and refrigerate uncovered for 8–12 hours. This helps season the fish and build flavor from the start.

Step 2: Dry and form the pellicle. Rinse the salmon lightly, then pat it completely dry. Set it on a rack and let it rest at room temperature for about 2 hours (if your home is 65°F or below), or refrigerate for a few hours uncovered. You’ll notice the surface becomes slightly tacky—this is the pellicle, and it helps the smoke stick to the salmon.

how to make smoked salmon with hot honey glaze

Step 3: Smoke the salmon. Preheat your smoker to 200°F. Lightly oil the grates, then place the salmon inside. Smoke for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches around 140°F.

Step 4: Make and brush the glaze. In a small bowl, mix hot honey, garlic, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes until combined. Gently warm the honey if needed to help it blend smoothly. During the last 20 minutes of smoking, brush the glaze over the salmon and let it finish cooking.

How do I know when salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 130–140°F for tender, flaky texture deepening on your preference. It should still look slightly glossy in the center (not dry) and flake easily with a fork.

Want to cook this salmon recipe in the oven?

You can! Just follow the recipe as is (you can skip the first step if desired). Bake at 275 for about 25-30 minutes. Brush with the hot honey mixture halfway through cooking. And towards the end switch to broil for about 2-3 minutes for get a nice caramel finish.

Serving Ideas for this Smoked Salmon with a Hot Honey Glaze

Flake over rice bowls with avocado and cucumber
Serve on toasted bagels with cream cheese
Turn into smoked salmon tacos (yes, it works great)
Add to a summer salad with citrus vinaigrette
Have leftovers? Make my Shortcut Smoked Tr o ut Dip (or Salmon) recipe!

Additions & Substitutions

Swap hot honey with regular honey + chili flakes
Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic
Add lemon juice for extra brightness
Try maple syrup for a different glaze twist

Like this hot honey recipe? Make sure to check out my:

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