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Close-up of a perfectly cooked blackened salmon fillet with a crispy crust.

One-Pan Blackened Salmon

This easy one-pan recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flavorful blackened salmon with minimal cleanup. Ideal for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 fillets
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Small bowl
  • Large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 Salmon Fillets about 6 oz each, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

Blackening Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon Paprika smoked paprika recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper or more, to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper

For Serving

  • Lemon Wedges For serving
  • Fresh Parsley Chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and pat the salmon fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels.

Blackening Seasoning

  • In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, mixing them well.

Cooking

  • Brush salmon with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides, pressing gently to adhere.
  • Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets, skin-side up, into the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes until a dark, crusty sear forms.
  • Gently flip the salmon fillets and immediately transfer the skillet to the preheated oven for 6-10 minutes, or until cooked through and easily flaked.
  • Remove from oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon, and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired; serve hot directly from the pan or plated.

Notes

For best results, ensure salmon is thoroughly dry before seasoning for a crispier sear. Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. A cast iron skillet is recommended for even heating and a great crust.