Turn up the heat with this Air Fryer Buffalo Salmon! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in bold buffalo flavor—it’s the perfect way to spice up your seafood game!
Air Fryer Buffalo Salmon is a bold and flavorful twist on traditional salmon that’s perfect for spice lovers!
This recipe combines the rich, flaky texture of salmon with the zesty kick of buffalo sauce, all cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. It’s a quick, healthy meal option that doesn’t skimp on taste—ready in under 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Serve it with a side of air fryer roasted veggies, over a fresh salad, or on a bun for a spicy salmon sandwich.
Whether you’re looking to change up your weeknight dinner or impress guests with something different, this dish delivers big flavor with ease.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Bold Flavor – The buffalo sauce adds a zesty, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with rich, flaky salmon.
- Healthy Option – High in protein, low in carbs, and air-fried instead of deep-fried for a lighter meal.
- Versatile – Serve it with veggies, rice, salad, or in a sandwich—the possibilities are endless!
- Minimal Cleanup – Cooking in the air fryer means fewer dishes and a stress-free cleanup.
For easy air fryer salmon recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Salmon Cacciatore, Air Fryer Peach Salmon, or Air Fryer Sockeye Salmon.
Ingredients Needed
- Salmon fillets – Fresh, flaky salmon perfect for soaking up flavor.
- Buffalo sauce – Spicy, tangy sauce that adds bold heat.
- Olive oil – Helps crisp the salmon and lock in moisture.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasoning to enhance overall flavor.
- Blue cheese crumbles – Creamy, tangy topping to cool the heat.
- Green onions (optional for garnish) – Adds a fresh, colorful finish to serve.
How To Make Air Fryer Buffalo Salmon
Prep the Salmon: Gently pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper for a simple, flavorful base.
Buffalo Sauce Coating: In a small bowl, stir together the buffalo sauce and olive oil. Generously brush the mixture over the salmon fillets, making sure they’re fully coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Air-fry at 400 degrees F set cook time for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
Add the Finishing Touch: Remove the salmon from the air fryer and immediately top with blue cheese crumbles while it’s still hot so the cheese melts slightly into the fish.
Air Fryer Buffalo Salmon Recipe Tips
- Check for Freshness: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Thicker fillets will give you a juicier result.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Leave space between the fillets in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: Thicker salmon fillets may need a few extra minutes, while thinner ones may cook faster.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, check that the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust the buffalo sauce to your heat preference by adding more or less sauce or mixing in a bit of honey for sweetness.
- For Extra Crispiness: For a crispier finish, you can broil the salmon for 1–2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Serve Immediately: Top with blue cheese while the salmon is hot for the best melt and flavor.
Storing
- Storing: Store leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure the salmon is cooled to room temperature before storing to preserve freshness.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat leftover salmon in the air fryer at 350°F for about 4-5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the air fryer will keep it crispy while preserving its flavor and texture.
What To Serve With Buffalo Salmon Air Fryer Recipe
When serving Air Fryer Buffalo Salmon, pair it with a variety of sides that balance its bold, spicy flavor. For a light and refreshing option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, complement the salmon’s rich texture, while a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad can add a satisfying, hearty touch. For a bit of extra crunch, try serving the salmon with crispy sweet potato fries or a simple coleslaw to add a fresh contrast to the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
Buffalo Salmon Air Fryer Recipe Faqs
Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets, but make sure to thaw them first for even cooking. If you’re short on time, you can cook them from frozen in the air fryer, but it will take a few extra minutes.
How can I adjust the heat level of the buffalo sauce? To adjust the spice level, simply add more or less buffalo sauce. For a milder version, mix in a bit of honey or ranch dressing to tone down the heat.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute other firm fish like trout or cod, but the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), or when it flakes easily with a fork.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While salmon is best fresh, you can prep the fillets with the buffalo sauce in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry them.
Can I make the buffalo sauce from scratch? Yes! You can make your own buffalo sauce by mixing melted butter with hot sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt for a customized flavor.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER TACO BELL COPYCAT NACHO FRIES
- AIR FRYER LOADED BBQ CHICKEN NACHOS
- EASY AIR FRYER PARMESAN DILL PICKLE CHIPS
- AIR FRYER FRIED OKRA
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Air Fryer Buffalo Salmon
Description
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped green onions, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—season both sides with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Mix the 1/4 cup buffalo sauce and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small bowl. Brush the sauce mixture generously over the 2 salmon fillets, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook at 400 degrees F and set cook time for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and immediately sprinkle the b1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles over the top while it's still hot, allowing the cheese to melt slightly. Garnish with 1 tablespoon green onions.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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