How Long to Cook Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer
No need to thaw! Cook salmon directly from frozen in your air fryer. This guide covers exact cooking times for frozen fillets, steaks, and portions.
Quick Answer
How long does frozen salmon take in the air fryer?
Frozen salmon (1-inch thick) takes 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). No thawing needed. Add seasonings after 5 minutes when the surface defrosts.
Cook Time
12-15 min
Temperature
375°F (190°C)
Why Cook Salmon From Frozen?
Cooking salmon from frozen is convenient and produces great results. The air fryer's circulating hot air quickly thaws and cooks the exterior while the inside gently comes up to temperature. Many people prefer the texture of salmon cooked from frozen compared to fresh salmon.
Frozen Salmon Cooking Times
Add approximately 50% more time compared to fresh salmon fillet times:
- Thin frozen fillet (3/4 inch): 10-12 minutes at 375°F (see thin salmon guide)
- Standard frozen fillet (1 inch): 12-15 minutes at 375°F
- Thick frozen fillet (1.5 inch): 15-18 minutes at 375°F (see thick salmon guide)
- Frozen salmon steak: 14-17 minutes at 375°F (see salmon steak guide)
Frozen Salmon Variations:
Step-by-Step Method
- Remove salmon from packaging (don't thaw)
- Place frozen salmon in air fryer basket
- Cook at 375°F for 5 minutes
- Open, pat surface dry, add seasonings
- Continue cooking 7-10 more minutes
- Check internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C)
Air Fryer Oven vs Basket
Air fryer oven: Use the middle rack position. Times are similar to basket-style air fryers. Models like Cuisinart and Emeril Lagasse work great for frozen salmon.
Basket air fryer: Place salmon directly in basket. Models like Ninja and Cosori heat quickly - check doneness early.
Related Cooking Guides
Best Seasonings for Frozen Salmon
Since you add seasonings after 5 minutes, these styles work great with frozen salmon:
- Teriyaki glaze - brush on halfway through
- Blackened seasoning - pat dry first for best crust
- Simple salt, pepper, and lemon - classic approach
- Quick marinade - let sit 5 minutes while surface thaws
Cooking Times
Cooking Times by Temperature
| Temperature | Celsius | Cook Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 350°F | 177°C | 15-18 min | Gentle, very moist |
| 375°F | 190°C | 12-15 min | Recommended |
| 400°F | 204°C | 10-13 min | Quick cook |
Expert Tips
- 1No need to thaw - cook directly from frozen.
- 2Add seasonings after 5 minutes when the surface thaws.
- 3Add about 50% more time than fresh salmon cooking times.
- 4Separate fillets if frozen together before cooking.
- 5Check internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C) at thickest part.
- 6Pat surface dry after initial 5 minutes for crispier result.
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Our team tests air fryer recipes in-house using USDA food safety guidelines. All cooking times are verified with calibrated thermometers.
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