This bacon wrapped salmon is a quick and satisfying high-protein dinner with crispy bacon and tender, flaky salmon.
The combination of smoky bacon, fresh lemon zest, and sweet maple syrup creates a simple but flavorful meal that feels restaurant-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The crispy bacon keeps the salmon moist and full of flavor.
This recipe is easy enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for guests.
It cooks in under 20 minutes with minimal prep work.
The maple syrup drizzle adds the perfect sweet and savory finish.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh salmon filets provide a rich, flaky texture and plenty of protein.
Bacon adds smoky flavor and crispiness around the salmon.
Lemon zest brightens the dish and balances the richness.
Maple syrup creates a sweet glaze that pairs perfectly with the savory bacon.
Olive oil helps the bacon crisp beautifully in the skillet.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the salmon dry well so the bacon crisps properly.
Use thin-cut bacon for faster and more even cooking.
Choose salmon filets that are similar in size for even cooking.
Watch the broiler carefully to prevent the bacon from burning.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Salmon
Step 1 – Prepare the salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Step 2 – Wrap with bacon
Lay two strips of bacon horizontally and place the salmon in the center. Wrap the bacon around each fillet.
Step 3 – Heat the skillet
Set the oven to broil and heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil.
Step 4 – Sear the salmon
Place the salmon skin-side up in the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the bacon browns, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes.
Step 5 – Broil until cooked
Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for about 3 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the salmon reaches 145°F internally.
Step 6 – Finish and serve
Remove from the oven and drizzle with maple syrup or your favorite sauce before serving.
What to Serve Them With
Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash pair beautifully with the rich salmon.
Steamed rice or quinoa make great high-protein side options.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap maple syrup for hot honey for a spicy-sweet finish.
Use turkey bacon if you prefer a lighter option.
Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra seasoning.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to keep the bacon crisp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 145°F and the fish should flake easily.
Can I make this in the air fryer?
Yes, cook at 400°F until the bacon is crispy and the salmon is cooked through.
What sauces pair well with this recipe?
Maple syrup, honey mustard, garlic butter, or spicy aioli all work well.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can wrap the salmon with bacon a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, simply skip the maple syrup or use a sugar-free alternative.
What type of salmon works best?
Atlantic or sockeye salmon both work well for this recipe.
Can I cook this without a cast iron skillet?
Yes, use any oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
How do I keep the bacon wrapped tightly?
Wrap the bacon snugly around the salmon and start seam-side down in the skillet.
Can I add extra seasoning?
Absolutely, herbs and spice blends can easily be added for more flavor.
Final Thoughts
This bacon wrapped salmon is crispy, flavorful, and packed with protein. It’s a simple dinner that delivers big flavor with very little effort.
Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
2 salmon filets, about 3–4 inches wide
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp olive oil
4 strips bacon
2 tbsp maple syrup
Optional sauce for serving
Instructions
Pat salmon dry and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Wrap each salmon fillet with two strips of bacon.
Preheat broiler and heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat with olive oil.
Sear salmon skin-side up for 2–3 minutes until bacon browns. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes.
Transfer skillet to oven and broil for about 3 minutes, until bacon is crispy and salmon reaches 145°F.
Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
