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This air fryer stuffed salmon recipe is simple to make and a healthy option for any meal.The most important thing you should know to make this recipe is, how long to cook stuffed salmon in the air fryer? You can make this recipe completely in just 10 minutes.
After trying this stuffed salmon recipe, you’ll never go back to cooking salmon any other way. Dinner will be served in no time and your family will love you. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great choice for supporting heart health. I hope you try this stuffed salmon in your air fryer recipe soon.
What Makes Air Fryer Stuffed Salmon So Amazing?
Air fryer stuffed salmon stands out as a flavorful, fast, and convenient dish that combines the best of both worlds: delicious seafood and easy cooking. Here’s why it’s so amazing:
Quick and Convenient Cooking Time
The air fryer cooks stuffed salmon in record time, usually within 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and the stuffing. Unlike traditional oven baking, which can take much longer, the air fryer allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal without the extended wait.
Healthier Cooking Method
Cooking stuffed salmon in the air fryer requires little to no oil, making it a much healthier option compared to frying or pan-searing. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to crisp up the salmon and give it a beautiful golden-brown finish without the need for excessive butter or oil, keeping the dish lower in fat and calories.
Deliciously Flaky and Moist Salmon
One of the best things about air fryer stuffed salmon is how evenly it cooks. The hot air surrounds the fish, forming a crispy crust while keeping the inside tender and moist. The result is tender, flaky salmon that’s cooked to perfection with every bite.
Versatile Stuffing Options
Stuffed salmon is highly adaptable, allowing you to get creative with the fillings. Whether you prefer a classic crab stuffing, a creamy spinach mixture, or even a vegetable-packed option, the air fryer accommodates a wide variety of stuffing choices, giving you endless opportunities for customization.
Minimal Cleanup
Cooking with an air fryer means less mess, with fewer pans and utensils to clean afterward. You can cook the salmon directly in the air fryer basket, and if you line it with parchment paper, cleanup is even easier. Plus, the lack of messy grease splatters makes it a hassle-free cooking experience.
How Long to Cook Stuffed Salmon in the Air Fryer
The cooking time for stuffed salmon in the air fryer depends on factors such as the thickness of the fillets and the stuffing you choose. However, the general guideline for cooking stuffed salmon in the air fryer is:
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Thin fillets (around 1 inch thick) typically cook in about 10 minutes.
Thicker fillets (1.5 to 2 inches) might require as much as 15 minutes to cook.
If your stuffing contains moisture-rich ingredients (like crab, spinach, or cheese), it may need a few extra minutes to cook thoroughly.
Some air fryers cook faster or slower, so you may want to check the salmon at the 12-minute mark and adjust accordingly.
The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
Ingredients Needed to Cook Stuffed Salmon
- 4 large skinless salmon fillets
- 1/2 pound cooked and chopped shrimp
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice
- 170g crabmeat
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (or spinach/other vegetables)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- A quarter cup of freshly grated Parmigiano cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- Season with salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
In a bowl, mix the chopped shrimp, crabmeat, cream cheese, lemon juice, and chopped bell pepper until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cut a pocket into each salmon fillet without slicing all the way through. This will hold the filling.
Fill each salmon pocket with the prepared mixture, ensuring it is packed in well.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for approximately 5 minutes.
Brush the outside of each stuffed fillet with melted unsalted butter for added flavor.
Place the stuffed salmon in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
After 10 minutes of cooking, flakes easily with a fork.
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and serve hot
Stuffing Variations to Elevate Your Air Fryer Salmon
I have used seafood cream cheese stuffing in this recipe. Feel free to use any stuffing you prefer. Stuffing salmon is a fantastic way to enhance its rich, tender flavor, turning a simple dish into something special. Here are the top three stuffing options that will elevate your air fryer salmon to a whole new level:
Classic Crab Stuffing: Crab and salmon pair together perfectly in the kitchen. This stuffing highlights the delicate sweetness of fresh crab meat, perfectly paired with the salmon’s flaky texture. The creamy base of cream cheese or mascarpone binds the stuffing together, while fresh dill and parsley add a refreshing note. A touch of lemon zest brightens the dish, and panko breadcrumbs, if used, provide a satisfying crunch. This stuffing is ideal for seafood lovers who enjoy a delicate, yet rich flavor.
Mediterranean Stuffing: For a fresh, vibrant twist, a Mediterranean stuffing made with spinach, feta, and Kalamata olives brings bold flavors that complement the salmon. The tangy feta and salty olives are balanced by earthy spinach and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Garlic adds savory depth, while a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of oregano finish the stuffing with a Greek-inspired flair. This stuffing offers a hearty and satisfying flavor profile, perfect for those who love Mediterranean cuisine.
Pesto Stuffing: Basil pesto brings a fresh, herbaceous twist to your salmon. Made with basil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts, this stuffing infuses the fish with a vibrant, aromatic flavor. The creamy pesto combined with the crunch of pine nuts creates a satisfying texture contrast. This option is ideal for fans of Italian cuisine, delivering a burst of herby freshness that elevates the natural sweetness of the salmon.
What to Serve with Stuffed Salmon
To elevate your stuffed salmon, pairing it with the right sides can create a perfectly balanced meal. Here are some top choices:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or brussels sprouts bring a sweet, caramelized flavor that compliments the richness of the salmon. Season with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like rosemary for added flavor.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a comforting side for stuffed salmon.The creamy texture complements the fish’s richness, while garlic enhances the overall flavor. Sour cream or cream cheese makes them extra creamy, while chives add a fresh finish.
Fresh Salad with Citrus Dressing
A light, crisp salad provides the perfect balance to the rich flavor of the salmon. Mix greens like spinach or arugula, with avocado, cucumber, and tomatoes for crunch. A citrus vinaigrette with lemon or orange juice brightens the dish and adds a zesty contrast.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf complements the salmon with its nutty flavor. Add garlic, onions, and fresh herbs like dill for extra flavor. Toasted almonds or pine nuts can add a nice crunch.
Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans
Simple yet flavorful, steamed broccoli or green beans offer a fresh contrast to the salmon. Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Stuffed Salmon in the Air Fryer
Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are always the best choice, offering superior texture and flavor.
Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to load up the salmon with as much stuffing as possible, be sure not to overstuff it, or it may spill out during cooking.
Season Well: Season both the outside of the salmon and the stuffing with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to bring out the best flavor.
Moisture is Key: Make sure the stuffing has enough moisture (cream cheese, mayonnaise, etc.) to prevent it from drying out during cooking.
Don’t Forget the Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked salmon enhances the flavor and adds a refreshing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frozen salmon is fine to use, but be sure to thaw it completely before stuffing and cooking. Frozen salmon may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
To prevent the stuffing from spilling, ensure that you don’t overstuff the salmon. Use toothpicks to secure the slit if necessary, and be sure the stuffing is tightly packed.
If you don’t like crab or don’t have access to fresh crab meat, you can substitute it with shrimp, salmon, or even a vegetarian filling like spinach and cheese.
Stuffed salmon will last up to 2 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve freshness, and reheat in the air fryer for the best results.
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