Cooking salmon has always been one of my favorite ways to combine simplicity with elegance in the kitchen. I love how a few fresh ingredients can transform a plain fillet into a flavorful, mouthwatering dish that looks like it belongs on a restaurant plate. Using the air fryer has made this even more exciting because it gives me that perfectly cooked, flaky salmon without having to heat up the oven or stand over a pan.
Recently, I experimented with stuffing my salmon, and I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The combination of creamy filling, herbs, and seasonings not only enhances the salmon but makes every bite rich and satisfying. It’s a recipe I’ve returned to again and again because it’s quick, versatile, and impressively delicious, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Salmon Fillets: Choosing fresh, thick salmon fillets is key. I prefer wild-caught salmon for its rich flavor, but farmed works too. Thick fillets help hold the stuffing without falling apart during cooking, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture to the stuffing and balances the salmon’s natural richness. Full-fat cream cheese works best, giving the filling a smooth and indulgent taste.
Spinach: Fresh spinach brings a vibrant green color and subtle earthy flavor to the stuffing. It wilts beautifully when combined with cream cheese, adding both nutrition and flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the stuffing with its aromatic, slightly spicy notes. It complements both the spinach and salmon perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory, nutty dimension to the filling. It also helps bind the ingredients together while providing a subtle, cheesy crunch after cooking.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the cream cheese and enhancing the natural flavor of the salmon.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings like salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for enhancing the natural flavors of both the fish and the stuffing.
Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Lightly brushing the salmon or spraying the air fryer basket prevents sticking and helps achieve a beautiful golden finish on the outside.
Ingredients List
- 4 salmon fillets (6–8 oz each, skin removed)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil or cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Stuffed Salmon
Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and evenly blended. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Stuff the Salmon
Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit in the thickest part of each salmon fillet, creating a pocket. Carefully spoon the prepared filling into each pocket, ensuring it’s evenly distributed without overstuffing.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect flaky texture.
Cook the Salmon
Lightly brush the salmon with olive oil or spray the air fryer basket. Place the stuffed fillets in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for 10–12 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Serve
Remove the salmon from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Make sure the salmon fillets are thick enough to hold the stuffing. Thin fillets might break apart.
- Use fresh spinach instead of frozen to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- Let the cream cheese soften to make mixing easier and the stuffing smoother.
- Don’t overstuff the salmon pocket; it can cause the filling to leak during cooking.
- Preheating the air fryer ensures the salmon cooks evenly and retains its moisture.
- Check for doneness around 10 minutes; overcooking can make the salmon dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect cooking.
Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing?
Absolutely! Ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or herbs like dill or parsley work wonderfully.
Do I need to remove the skin?
Removing the skin is recommended for easier stuffing, but you can leave it on if you prefer and just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I bake this instead of air frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.