If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, you can’t go wrong with air fryer salmon. This handy kitchen appliance makes cooking salmon incredibly easy, resulting in a perfectly cooked fish every time. Plus, if you enjoy flavorful dishes, you’ll definitely want to check out our best carrot cake recipe for a delightful dessert!

Why Make This Recipe
Air fryer salmon is a fantastic choice because it cooks quickly while keeping the fish juicy and flaky. Using the air fryer also gives a nice crisp to the outside, making each bite satisfying. It’s a healthy option, high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart. For a special touch, consider making this dish alongside our best Jimbo sugar cookies for dessert.
How to Make Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon filets (6oz each, skin or no skin is fine)
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or any coarse salt)
- Lemon slices
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Brush tops of salmon filets with melted butter.
- Mix together paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle the mixture over the top of the filets.
- Add foil to the bottom of the air fryer basket and spritz with a little cooking spray. Preheat at 390°F for 5 minutes.
- Place salmon, skin side down on foil. Set the air fryer to “air fry” setting at 390°F for 10 minutes.
- Check for doneness. Internal temp should be 145°F and fish will easily flake with a fork.
- Serve and enjoy with fresh lemon!
You may also find Best Homemade Eskimo Pie Popsicle Recipe useful.
How to Serve Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon
You can serve your salmon with a variety of sides. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. For additional flavor, try a squeeze of lemon over the top or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. If you want a refreshing side, check out our smoked salmon roll cucumber recipe.
How to Store Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon
To store leftover salmon, let it cool to room temperature. Place the salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the salmon if you want to keep it longer. Just ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. You may also find Best Sugar For Brulee useful.

Tips to Make Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cooking one or two filets at a time helps them cook evenly.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite seasoning or herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Try different sides: Pair your salmon with different vegetables or grains to keep meals interesting.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding a glaze, such as teriyaki or honey mustard, before air frying. This adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the salmon well.
FAQs
1. Can I cook frozen salmon in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen salmon directly in the air fryer. Adjust the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes at 390°F.
2. What should I do if my salmon is sticking to the foil?
Make sure to use enough cooking spray on the foil or consider using parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. How do I know when salmon is done cooking?
The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork when it’s done. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Conclusion
Cooking salmon in an air fryer is not only simple but also produces delicious results. When you’re looking for more great air fryer ideas, explore these options: Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon, Best Damn Air Fryer Pork Chops, Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon Bites, Best Damn Crispy and Flaky Air Fryer Cod, and Best Damn Air Fryer Blackened Salmon. Enjoy your cooking!
Print
Best Damn Air Fryer Salmon
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Quick and delicious air fryer salmon that cooks perfectly every time, keeping the fish juicy and flaky.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon filets (6oz each, skin or no skin is fine)
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or any coarse salt)
- Lemon slices
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brush tops of salmon filets with melted butter.
- Mix together paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle the mixture over the top of the filets.
- Add foil to the bottom of the air fryer basket and spritz with a little cooking spray. Preheat at 390°F for 5 minutes.
- Place salmon, skin side down on foil. Set the air fryer to “air fry” setting at 390°F for 10 minutes.
- Check for doneness. Internal temp should be 145°F and fish will easily flake with a fork.
- Serve and enjoy with fresh lemon!
Notes
For a special touch, serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Consider trying a glaze like teriyaki or honey mustard for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: air fryer, salmon, quick meal, healthy recipe, seafood