Air Fryer Spinach Stuffed Salmon: The Ultimate Quick & Healthy Dinner
Discover how to create the most incredibly flavorful and easy-to-prepare air fryer spinach stuffed salmon, featuring a luscious blend of Boursin cheese and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe transforms simple salmon fillets into a gourmet meal that’s ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights while being elegant enough to impress any company. The air fryer ensures perfectly cooked, flaky salmon with a creamy, savory filling that will become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Air Fryer Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Air frying salmon has revolutionized how I approach weeknight meals, and this particular recipe for spinach stuffed salmon takes convenience and flavor to a whole new level. We’re talking about succulent salmon fillets, expertly filled with a rich and vibrant mixture of fresh spinach, creamy Boursin cheese, and bright sun-dried tomatoes, all cooked to perfection in less than 15 minutes. It’s a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner solution.
This recipe draws inspiration from the wildly popular one-pan creamy salmon pasta bakes that have taken the internet by storm. However, instead of simply serving these fantastic flavors alongside pasta, we’re ingeniously stuffing them directly into the salmon itself. This method concentrates the exquisite taste within each bite, creating a naturally low-carb and incredibly satisfying dish. While you could still serve it with pasta, the stuffed salmon stands proudly on its own as a complete and flavorful meal.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. If you’re pressed for time or simply want to simplify the process even further, you can easily shortcut the filling by using your favorite store-bought spinach dip. This is an excellent way to repurpose leftovers from gatherings or just streamline your meal prep. I’ll provide some clever options for using pre-made dips below, ensuring this recipe fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, no matter how busy you are.
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Essential Ingredients for Spinach Stuffed Salmon
Crafting this delightful air fryer spinach stuffed salmon requires a few key ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of creaminess, acidity, and savory richness. Gather these items to begin your culinary journey:
- 1 pound salmon fillets (defrosted if frozen)
- 5.2-ounce block Boursin cheese (Garlic and Herb is highly recommended for its robust flavor)
- 1 cup chopped spinach (thawed if frozen and thoroughly drained to prevent a watery filling)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (approximately 4 halves, packed in oil for best flavor)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to your personal taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground is always best)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (smoked paprika can add an extra layer of depth)
Ingredient Tips and Smart Substitutions
- For the salmon, I typically opt for skinless fillets, but feel free to use skin-on if that’s your preference—just remember to adjust cooking time slightly if the skin is left on. When selecting your salmon, look for wider, thicker fillets as these are much easier to slice and stuff without tearing, ensuring your creamy filling stays securely inside during air frying.
- Regarding Boursin cheese, the garlic and herb variety offers a fantastic base flavor that pairs beautifully with salmon and spinach. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with other Boursin flavors like shallot and chive, or even a plain version if you prefer to control the herb profile. If Boursin isn’t available, cream cheese, ricotta cheese, or even small-curd cottage cheese can make excellent substitutes, providing a similar creamy texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a wonderful tangy and sweet contrast to the rich cheese and spinach. If you don’t have them on hand, a handful of fresh grape or cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered, can provide a similar burst of fresh flavor, though the intensity will be different.
- All seasonings are entirely adjustable to your taste. Feel free to increase or decrease quantities, or swap anything you don’t particularly enjoy. For example, if your chosen cheese already has a strong onion flavor, consider swapping the onion powder for an extra pinch of garlic powder on the exterior of the fish to avoid overpowering the dish.
- **Dip Filling Option:** For an incredibly convenient shortcut, consider using about 1 cup of store-bought spinach and artichoke dip or classic spinach dip instead of making your own filling from scratch. This is a brilliant way to repurpose leftover dip from a party or simply save valuable prep time, without sacrificing on flavor. Ensure the dip is thick enough to hold its shape when stuffed.
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Air Fryer Stuffed Salmon
Follow these easy steps to prepare your succulent spinach stuffed salmon in the air fryer. The process is straightforward, ensuring a delicious and perfectly cooked meal every time.
- Begin by patting your salmon fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps seasonings adhere better and promotes a beautifully crispy exterior. If you prefer skinless salmon and your fillets have skin, carefully remove it with a sharp knife. Then, using a sharp knife, slice each salmon fillet horizontally about two-thirds of the way through, creating a pocket. Make sure to leave approximately ¼ inch at the bottom intact to keep the fillet connected and prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Next, lightly rub all sides of the salmon fillets with olive oil. This helps the seasonings stick and contributes to a golden-brown finish. After coating with oil, generously season all sides of each fillet with the salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the creamy Boursin cheese, thoroughly drained chopped spinach, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Use a spoon or spatula to mix these ingredients together until they are well incorporated and form a cohesive, flavorful filling.
- Carefully open the pocket you created in each salmon fillet. Using a spoon, place about ¼ cup of the cheese mixture into the cut on the salmon. The exact amount may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your fish pieces. Gently press the filling in well and mound it up evenly. Repeat this process for each piece of salmon, ensuring they are generously stuffed.
- Once stuffed, carefully add the prepared salmon fillets to your air fryer’s basket or rack. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring there is adequate space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation. This is key for even cooking and achieving that desirable crispy exterior. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook on the air fry setting at 375°F (or 380°F, depending on your air fryer’s available settings) for 10-15 minutes. The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the cheese filling is beautifully browned and bubbly. For food safety, the internal temperature of the thickest part of the salmon should reach at least 145°F (63°C), as per USDA guidelines. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your salmon and the specific model of your air fryer.
- Once cooked to perfection, carefully remove the air fryer spinach stuffed salmon. Serve it hot immediately with your favorite complementary sides for a truly satisfying meal.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Spinach Stuffed Salmon
This flavorful air fryer spinach stuffed salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes. Whether you’re aiming for a hearty meal, a light and healthy option, or something that perfectly complements the creamy, savory flavors of the salmon, you’ll find plenty of delicious choices.
- Rice (white, brown, or wild)
- Cauliflower rice (a great low-carb alternative)
- Quinoa
- Risotto
- Couscous
- Farro
- Pasta (a simple lemon-garlic pasta would be excellent)
- Zoodles (zucchini noodles for a fresh, light pairing)
- Spaghetti squash
- Roasted sweet potatoes (cubed or wedges)
- Mashed potatoes (creamy and comforting)
- Fingerling potatoes
- Hasselback potatoes
- Ravioli
- Green salad (with a light vinaigrette)
- Spinach salad (with berries or nuts)
- Sautéed asparagus or green beans
- Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts
- Stuffed mushrooms
- Fried artichoke hearts
- Garlic knots or crusty bread
The key is to select sides that either absorb the delicious juices from the salmon, offer a contrasting texture, or provide a fresh, vibrant element. Consider your seasonings, personal preferences, and any dietary needs when making your choice. For some truly excellent pairing options, consider my own recipes like the crispy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes With Cheese, the tangy Air Fryer Greek Potatoes, or the perfectly golden Frozen Garlic Knots in the Air Fryer. My Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts or the unique Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes would also make fantastic accompaniments, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Stuffed Salmon
What Exactly is Air Fryer Salmon With Spinach?
Air fryer salmon with spinach is a deliciously flavorful and nutrient-dense dish that centers around salmon fillets cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The “spinach” component can manifest in a few ways: either, as in this recipe, the salmon fillets are expertly stuffed with a creamy spinach mixture, or they can be served gracefully atop a bed of freshly sautéed spinach if you prefer a simpler, unstuffed preparation. This method ensures quick cooking and a tender, flaky result, whether stuffed or served alongside.
To serve the spinach on the side, you would cook your salmon fillets in the air fryer as directed, and simultaneously, or just before serving, quickly sauté fresh spinach with a touch of garlic and olive oil in a pan on the stovetop. This creates a vibrant and healthy complement to the rich salmon.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Filets for This Air Fryer Stuffed Salmon Recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh salmon is always a treat, using frozen salmon is perfectly acceptable and highly convenient for making this air fryer salmon and spinach recipe. Many people rely on frozen salmon for its availability and cost-effectiveness. The key to success is to ensure that the frozen fillets are completely thawed before you begin the preparation process. After thawing, gently pat the salmon dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes a crispier, more appealing texture when air-fried.
What Seasonings and Herbs Enhance the Flavor of Air Fryer Spinach Stuffed Salmon?
A variety of seasonings and fresh herbs beautifully complement the rich, natural flavors of salmon and the creamy spinach filling. Classic choices include garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest (for a bright, zesty kick), dried dill, and a touch of paprika or smoked paprika for warmth. Beyond these, fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be added directly to the spinach mixture or sprinkled over the salmon before cooking for an extra burst of aromatic flavor. Don’t forget freshly ground black pepper to taste, as it always elevates the dish.
What is the Ideal Cooking Time and Temperature for Air Frying Stuffed Salmon Filets?
While plain salmon fillets are often cooked at a higher temperature, typically around 400°F (200°C), when dealing with a cheese filling like in this recipe, it’s generally better to reduce the temperature slightly to 375°F-380°F (190°C-195°C). This lower temperature helps prevent the cheese from over-browning or burning before the salmon is fully cooked through. This adjustment usually increases the cooking time to approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the specific model of your air fryer. The most reliable way to ensure doneness is to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients to the Spinach Mixture?
Absolutely! Customizing your spinach filling is a fantastic way to make this dish uniquely your own and add more nutrients or flavors. Feel free to experiment by incorporating other finely chopped vegetables such as cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered), sliced mushrooms, finely diced onions or shallots, marinated artichoke hearts, or even roasted red peppers. You can also play with different types of cheese beyond Boursin, or enhance the existing flavor profile with various fresh herbs and additional seasonings. The possibilities are endless for creating a personalized and delicious stuffed salmon.
What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Salmon and Spinach in This Dish?
This air fryer salmon with spinach dish is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, offering abundant protein, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and a wide array of vitamins and minerals. Salmon is renowned for being rich in omega-3s, which are vital for brain health and reducing inflammation, along with high-quality protein necessary for muscle repair and growth. Spinach contributes significantly with its high content of fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, and various antioxidants, making this meal not only delicious but also incredibly beneficial for your overall health and well-being.
Can I Make Air Fryer Spinach Stuffed Salmon in Advance and Reheat It Later?
Yes, air fryer salmon with spinach can certainly be prepared in advance and reheated later, making it a convenient option for meal prep or quick leftovers. To store, allow the cooked salmon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the air fryer at around 375°F (190°C) for approximately 5 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps the salmon retain its moisture and some of its crispy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, though the texture might be slightly softer.
Expert Recipe Pro Tips for Best Results
- You do not need to flip the salmon during air frying. Attempting to flip the stuffed salmon could cause the delicious creamy filling to spill out, compromising both the appearance and the flavor. The air fryer’s circulating hot air is sufficient to cook the salmon evenly on all sides without manual intervention.
- My personal experience cooking spinach stuffed salmon in a Ninja air fryer at 375°F for 13 minutes, without preheating, yielded perfectly cooked results (confirmed with an instant-read thermometer). However, remember that cooking times and temperatures can vary significantly between different air fryer brands and models. The exact size and thickness of your specific salmon fillets will also influence the cooking duration, so always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- If you choose to preheat your air fryer, which some models recommend, be sure to reduce the initial cooking time by approximately 2 minutes. Preheating ensures your air fryer is already at the target temperature, meaning food starts cooking immediately and can sometimes cook faster. Always keep a close eye on your salmon and adjust as needed.
Storage and Reheating Advice
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your leftover air fryer spinach stuffed salmon while maintaining its quality and flavor.
- Store any leftover spinach stuffed salmon in an airtight container immediately after it has cooled completely. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days.
- To reheat salmon in the air fryer, transfer a portion of the cooked salmon to the air fryer basket. Heat it at approximately 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes, or until it is thoroughly warmed through. The exact reheating time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the size of the salmon piece. Reheating in the air fryer helps to prevent the salmon from drying out and can restore some of its initial crispness.
Explore More Air Fryer Salmon Recipes
Bang Bang Salmon Air Fryer Recipe: Dinner in 15 Minutes!
Air Fryer Salmon Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls w/ Chipotle Mayo
Teriyaki Salmon Bites Air Fryer Recipe: Cooks in 6 Min!
Beyond this incredible Air Fryer Spinach Stuffed Salmon, I have several other fantastic salmon recipes cooked in the air fryer that are definitely worth trying. Each offers a unique flavor profile and quick preparation:
- Air Fryer Pesto Salmon: A vibrant and herbaceous salmon dish, made quick and easy with the air fryer and classic pesto.
- Honey Garlic Salmon in the Air Fryer: Sweet, savory, and perfectly glazed salmon fillets, cooked to tender perfection in minutes.
- Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Salmon: Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this salmon offers a delightful textural contrast.
Final Thoughts on This Incredible Air Fryer Spinach Stuffed Salmon
This air fryer spinach stuffed salmon recipe truly delivers a delicious and remarkably simple dinner option that comes together in under 15 minutes of active cooking time. It strikes the perfect balance, being easy enough for a busy weeknight yet undeniably elegant for entertaining guests or celebrating a special occasion. The magic lies in the juicy, perfectly seasoned salmon, generously packed with a rich, creamy mixture of fresh spinach, savory Boursin cheese, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, all roasted to absolute perfection in your air fryer.
I often enjoy this exquisite dish with a simple side of fluffy rice, which perfectly soaks up any flavorful juices. However, its versatility means it pairs equally well with a variety of other grains, pastas, or even low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or zoodles. In fact, if you’re a fan of the viral TikTok trend of baked salmon pasta, you could easily flake this cooked salmon and mix it with freshly cooked pasta for a similar, incredibly satisfying experience, infusing the pasta with all those wonderful flavors.
Katie’s tip
If you enjoy the creamy, herbaceous flavors in this recipe, make sure to check out my Air Fryer Stuffed Tomatoes recipe, which also features Boursin cheese. It makes a perfect appetizer to serve alongside this impressive stuffed salmon meal!
Air Fryer Spinach Stuffed Salmon With Boursin & Tomatoes
4
10 minutes
12 minutes
22 minutes
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Mixing bowl
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Sharp knife
Ingredients
- 1 Pound salmon fillets (defrosted if frozen)
- 5.2 Ounce block Boursin cheese (garlic and herb flavor recommended)
- 1 Cup chopped spinach (thawed if frozen and well-drained)
- 1 Tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (about 4 halves)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ Tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ Tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ Tsp paprika
- ½ Tsp onion powder
Instructions
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Pat salmon dry, remove skin if desired, and then carefully slice each fillet vertically to create a pocket, leaving about ¼” at the bottom to hold it together.1 Pound salmon fillets
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Rub the salmon thoroughly with olive oil, then season all sides generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika.1 Tbsp olive oil, ½ Tsp salt, ½ Tsp black pepper, ½ Tsp paprika, ½ Tsp onion powder
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In a bowl, combine the Boursin cheese, well-drained spinach, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes; mix thoroughly until well combined.5.2 Ounce block Boursin cheese, 1 Cup chopped spinach, 1 Tsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
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Generously fill each salmon pocket with about ¼ cup (adjust based on fillet size) of the cheese mixture, pressing it in well and mounding it up evenly. Repeat for all salmon pieces.
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Carefully place the stuffed salmon fillets into your air fryer basket or rack in a single layer, ensuring sufficient space between each for optimal air flow.
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Cook on the air fry setting at 375°F (or 380°F, depending on your air fryer) for 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the cheese is golden-brown. The salmon should flake easily with a fork or reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
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Serve the hot, flavorful stuffed salmon immediately with your chosen favorite sides.
Notes
- For optimal results, look for wider salmon fillets, whether skinless or skin-on, as they are much easier to slice and stuff without tearing, ensuring your filling remains intact.
- Feel free to experiment with different Boursin cheese flavors or substitute with other creamy cheeses like cream cheese, ricotta, or cottage cheese for varied tastes and textures.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are unavailable, you can use a small handful of fresh grape or cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered, for a burst of fresh flavor, though the profile will be slightly different.
- All seasonings are fully customizable. Adjust quantities or swap out any spices you don’t prefer. If your cheese has a strong onion flavor, consider reducing or omitting onion powder from the salmon’s exterior seasoning.
- Dip filling option: A fantastic time-saving tip is to use about 1 cup of store-bought spinach and artichoke dip or a classic spinach dip as your filling. This is perfect for utilizing leftovers or when you need a quick prep option!
- It’s important that you do not flip the salmon during cooking in the air fryer. The circulating hot air cooks evenly, and flipping could cause the creamy filling to spill out.
- In my Ninja air fryer, I achieved perfectly cooked spinach stuffed salmon at 375°F for 13 minutes without preheating. Keep in mind that air fryer models vary significantly, as does the thickness of salmon fillets. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
- If you choose to preheat your air fryer, reduce the initial cooking time by about 2 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- Store any leftover salmon and spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- To reheat salmon with spinach in the air fryer, place a portion in the air fryer basket and heat for roughly 5 minutes at 375°F. Reheating times may vary, so check for warmth.
- Please note that exact nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and flavors of ingredients used, the size of fish pieces, any adjustments or added sides, and the actual quantity consumed. Consider this information as a general guideline only.
Nutrition
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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