Applebee’s Blackened Salmon Steak Recipe

Get ready to enjoy Applebee’s Blackened Salmon in the comfort of your own home!

This dish is one of my favorites because of how it combines the perfect spice blend with the rich, buttery taste of salmon.

The key to great blackened salmon is in the spice blend.

Make sure to coat your fillet generously to achieve that bold, smoky flavor.

Don’t forget to preheat your pan until it’s sizzling hot before adding the salmon.

This helps to sear the fish perfectly, locking in all those delicious juices.

How to Make Applebee’s Blackened Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Salmon Fillets
• 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 Lemon (sliced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix all the spices together in a small bowl.

Combine Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2:

Rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

Make sure the fillets are coated well.

Step 3:

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it’s sizzling hot.

Step 4:

Add the salmon fillets to the pan, skin-side down first.

Cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Step 5:

Remove the fillets from the pan and place them on a plate.

Garnish with lemon slices before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Salmon

Fresh salmon tastes much better in this recipe, so if you can, find fillets that are as fresh as possible.

If fresh salmon isn’t available, frozen salmon can be a good alternative.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Make sure to give each salmon fillet enough space in the pan.

This helps achieve that perfect blackened crust without steaming the fillets.

Let the Butter Get Hot

Ensure the butter is sizzling hot before adding the salmon fillets to the pan.

This step is crucial for getting that blackened effect.

Flip Carefully

Use a spatula to flip the salmon fillets carefully.

Flipping too soon or too roughly can break the fillets apart.

Adjust Seasoning to Taste

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to fit your taste.

Add more or less Cajun seasoning depending on how spicy you like your salmon.

What to Serve with Applebee’s Blackened Salmon Recipe

Classic Green Beans

A classic side for blackened salmon is green beans.

Lightly steamed green beans, tossed with a bit of olive oil and garlic, are so simple and delicious.

Crunchy and vibrant, green beans complement the spiciness of the salmon.

Fresh Mango Salsa

A fresh mango salsa can bring a refreshing sweetness to your meal.

Dice up some mango, red onion, and cilantro, then squeeze in some lime juice.

This bright, sweet, and tangy salsa works wonders with the bold flavors of the blackened seasoning.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are another great option to serve with blackened salmon.

Make them creamy with some butter and milk for a rich, smooth side that tastes wonderful with the spicy fish.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad

A cucumber and tomato salad is a cool, crisp, and refreshing side dish to balance the heat of the blackened salmon.

Chop cucumbers and tomatoes, then dress them with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.

It’s incredibly easy and fresh.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts can be a slightly unconventional but delicious choice.

Toss them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until they’re crispy and caramelized.

The earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the blackened seasoning on the salmon.

Variations and Substitutions

Healthy Alternatives

If you’re looking to make the dish a bit healthier, you can substitute olive oil for butter.

Olive oil adds a wonderful depth of flavor without compromising the bold seasoning.

Another option is to request wild-caught salmon for a more sustainable and nutrient-rich choice.

Different Seasonings

You don’t have to stick exclusively to Cajun seasoning.

Try lemon pepper for a zesty twist, or teriyaki for a fusion experience.

These variations can offer a delightful new spin on the classic dish.

Sauces Galore

Adding a sauce can elevate your blackened salmon to the next level!

Lemon butter, teriyaki, and bourbon glaze are all fantastic options.

You can even ask for an extra side of honey pepper glaze for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

If you’d like to skip the butter entirely, try grilling the seasoned salmon.

Grilling can give you that smoky flavor without additional fats.

It also allows you to control the cooking process more precisely.

Side Dishes

Changing up the sides can transform your meal completely!

Consider pairing your salmon with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables.

You can also substitute your usual sides with quinoa or brown rice to keep the meal light and wholesome.

How to Store Leftover Blackened Salmon

Avoiding Moisture Loss

Store leftover blackened salmon in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Place a piece of wax paper or aluminum foil over the top of the salmon before sealing the container.

This extra layer helps to maintain the moisture and prevents freezer burn.

Refrigeration Tips

You can store the leftover salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Be sure to place the container in the coldest part of the fridge.

It’s best to consume it within this period to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

Freezing for Long-term Storage

Wrap the blackened salmon tightly in plastic wrap to minimize exposure to air.

Place the wrapped salmon in a freezer-safe zip-lock bag or container.

Label the container with the date, so you know how long it’s been stored. You can freeze the salmon for up to 2 months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Salmon

You don’t want to overcook your salmon.

Overcooking makes the salmon dry and less flavorful.

Cook each side for 4-8 minutes, depending on the thickness.

Using Too Much or Too Little Spice

Finding the right balance of spices is crucial.

Too much spice can overpower the dish.

Too little spice makes it bland.

Sprinkle generously but evenly.

Inadequate Pan Temperature

Make sure your pan is hot before adding the salmon.

A too-cool pan won’t sear the fish properly.

This can lead to a steamed texture and lack of crust.

Heat your pan on medium-high for best results.