Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter

Name: Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I love preparing Air Fryer Salmon With Garlic Butter for quick weeknight dinners. The air fryer gives the salmon that perfect crispy exterior without any need for excess oil, while the garlic butter adds an irresistible depth of flavor. In just 15 minutes, I can serve a deliciously juicy salmon fillet that’s packed with nutrients. Pair it with a simple salad or some steamed veggies, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that feels fancy, yet is so simple to make!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:57:35.980Z

When I first tried making salmon in my air fryer, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to achieve that crispy golden crust. I used a simple garlic butter mixture, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the fish moist. Each bite is delightfully juicy, and I can never get enough of that rich garlic aroma wafting through the kitchen. I recommend using fresh garlic for the best taste.

After experimenting a few times, I discovered that marinating the salmon in the garlic butter for even just 5 minutes before cooking makes a world of difference. It allows the flavors to penetrate the fish beautifully. Plus, it’s a one-pan clean-up dinner, so I get to enjoy my meal without the hassle of extensive dishwashing afterwards!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Rich garlic butter flavor that perfectly complements the salmon
Juicy texture that remains beautifully tender inside while crispy outside

Understanding Garlic Butter

Garlic butter serves as the heart of this Air Fryer Salmon recipe, enhancing its flavor profile. The unsalted butter provides a rich, creamy base while allowing the sharpness of the minced garlic and the brightness of the lemon juice to shine through. Be sure to thoroughly mix these ingredients until you reach a uniform paste; this ensures that every bite of salmon is infused with the delightful flavors. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to increase the minced garlic to four or five cloves.

In this recipe, the garlic butter not only flavors the salmon but also helps to keep it moist during the cooking process. The fat in the butter covers the salmon, creating a barrier that locks in moisture and protects the delicate fish from drying out in the air fryer. This technique results in juicy, flavorful fillets with a perfectly crispy exterior that forms during cooking. Always taste your garlic butter mixture before applying it to the salmon; this way, you can adjust the seasoning to your personal preference.

Cooking in the Air Fryer

The air fryer is an excellent tool for cooking salmon, as it combines dry heat and circulation to create a crisp surface while keeping the inside tender. Setting your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving that perfect crackle on the outside. Make sure to allow your air fryer to preheat for at least 5 minutes before placing your salmon inside; this ensures an even cook. If your air fryer has a smaller basket, cook the fillets in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Keep a close eye on the salmon during the last few minutes of cooking. You're looking for an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked salmon, but if you prefer it slightly less done, it's okay to pull it out at 130°F (54°C) for a medium-rare outcome. When finished, the salmon should flake easily with a fork. If the top isn't as crispy as you'd like, consider giving it an additional minute in the air fryer, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to use quality salmon for the best taste, preferably wild-caught.

Instructions

Prep the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix the unsalted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillets. Let them marinate for about 5 minutes.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, and cook for 10 minutes.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious air-fried salmon with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding some lemon slices on top of the salmon before air frying. This enhances the freshness and makes the dish even more appealing.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Air Fryer Salmon with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables not only enhances the meal's nutritional value but also balances the richness of the garlic butter. A simple mix of arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar complements the garlic flavor without overwhelming the palate. If you're looking to add a starch to the plate, consider serving the salmon alongside quinoa or a bed of couscous—both absorb flavors well while adding a nice texture contrast.

If you're in the mood for a heartier dish, consider serving your salmon with a side of roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto. The creamy textures of these sides will contrast beautifully with the flaky salmon, making for a satisfying meal. You can even add a splash of white wine to your risotto while it's cooking to echo the lemony notes of the garlic butter.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining the salmon’s texture and flavor. Allow the cooked salmon to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, the air fryer works great to preserve its crispy exterior; just set it back to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-6 minutes until heated through, checking to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked salmon. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag, where it can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheating from frozen might take a bit longer, so be sure to adjust your time accordingly and check for doneness with a food thermometer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ Is the air fryer necessary for this recipe?

While an air fryer works best for achieving that crispy texture, you can also bake the salmon in a regular oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes.

→ Can I substitute the garlic butter with something else?

You can use olive oil instead of butter and add herbs like dill or thyme for a different flavor.

→ What sides pair well with air fryer salmon?

Steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad make great pairs with this dish.