How to cook salmon steak in an air fryer?

Pat the salmon steaks dry, season them, and brush on a simple marinade. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, then cook the steaks for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The salmon should be golden on the outside and flaky in the center.

How long should you cook salmon in the air fryer?

Pat the salmon steaks dry, season them, and brush on a simple marinade. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, then cook the steaks for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The salmon should be golden on the outside and flaky in the center.

What is the best temperature for salmon steak?

For that perfect mix of crispy edges and a tender, flaky interior, 400°F is ideal in the air fryer. It gives you a quick cook time and great texture without drying out the fish.

Is it better to bake salmon at 350 or 400?

Both temperatures work, but 400°F gives better results if you’re after that lightly crisped outside and juicy center. At 350°F, the salmon will cook more gently, which can be nice for larger fillets or if you’re adding a sugary glaze.

Air Fryer Salmon Steaks Recipe – Quick, Easy & Crispy

Description

These air fryer salmon steaks are crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and bursting with flavor. A quick marinade of Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and pantry spices transforms these simple steaks into a delicious, healthy meal — ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want something fast and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

2 salmon steaks (approximately 1-inch thick)
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
1/2 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Pat the salmon steaks dry using paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper and let them rest for about 5 minutes.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sugar, and a little more salt and pepper.
Brush the marinade over both sides of the salmon steaks. For extra flavor, refrigerate the marinated salmon for 10 minutes (optional).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the salmon steaks in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Marinating is optional but recommended for deeper flavor.

For crispier skin and edges, add 1 extra minute to cooking time.

Avoid overcrowding the basket — cook in batches if needed.Cooked salmon should reach an internal temperature of 135°F to 145°F.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes. If frozen, air fry for 12 to 15 minutes until heated through.

Prep Time: 5
Cook Time: 12
Category: Dinner, Main
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 salmon steak
Calories: 272
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 412mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 96mg