Blog

Salmon is a versatile and delicious fish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you have fresh or frozen fillets, it’s important to know how long to cook them for to ensure they are properly cooked and safe to eat.

If you have frozen salmon fillets, there are a few factors to consider when determining cooking time. The thickness of the fillets, the method of cooking, and the temperature of your oven or stove all play a role in how long it will take to cook the fish.

One popular method for cooking frozen salmon fillets is baking them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer a crispy skin, you can broil the fillets for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time.

Another option is to pan-fry the frozen salmon fillets. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and add the fillets, skin-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets.

Preparation of Frozen Salmon Fillets

Amazon Fresh Brand, Wild Caught Pink Salmon Skinless Fillet Portions, Frozen, Sustainably Sourced, Phosphate Free, 1 Lb

Check Price

Amazon.com

When cooking frozen salmon fillets, it is important to properly prepare them to ensure they are delicious and safe to eat. Follow these steps to prepare your frozen salmon fillets:

Step 1: Thawing the Salmon Fillets

Start by thawing the frozen salmon fillets. Place the fillets in the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight. If you need to thaw them quickly, you can also thaw them in cold water. Make sure to place the fillets in a sealed plastic bag to prevent water from entering and diluting the flavor.

Step 2: Seasoning the Fillets

Once the fillets are thawed, it’s time to season them. Lightly sprinkle both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, lemon zest, or dill for extra flavor. Rub the seasonings gently into the fillets to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Preparing the Cooking Surface

Before cooking the salmon fillets, prepare the cooking surface. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will prevent the fillets from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 4: Cooking the Fillets

Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so it’s important to keep an eye on them.

Note: You can also grill or pan-fry the salmon fillets if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time and method accordingly.

Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillets, Skinless, Best Premium Quality in the US, Center Cut, Perfectly Trimmed, 3 x 6 Oz. 1.125 Lb.) - Kosher, Ready to Cook - 100%...

Check Price

Amazon.com

Step 5: Serving the Salmon Fillets

Once the salmon fillets are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the fillets more tender and flavorful.

Enjoy your tasty and healthy homemade salmon fillets!

Defrosting Process

Before cooking frozen salmon fillets, it is important to properly defrost them to ensure even cooking. There are two recommended methods for defrosting salmon fillets: in the refrigerator and using cold water.

Refrigerator Method:

1. Take the frozen salmon fillets out of the freezer and place them in a sealed container or zip-top bag.

Gorton's, Classic Grilled Salmon, 6.3 oz (Frozen)

Check Price

Amazon.com

2. Put the container or bag in the refrigerator.

3. Allow the salmon fillets to defrost in the refrigerator for approximately 8-10 hours, or overnight.

4. Once the salmon fillets are completely defrosted, they are ready to be cooked.

This method is recommended as it allows for a slow defrosting process, which helps maintain the quality and texture of the salmon.

Cold Water Method:

Trident, Alaskan Salmon Burgers (Frozen), 11.2 Oz

Check Price

Amazon.com

1. Take the frozen salmon fillets out of the freezer and place them in a sealed plastic bag.

2. Fill a large bowl or basin with cold water.

3. Submerge the sealed bag of salmon fillets in the cold water. Make sure the bag is completely sealed to prevent water from entering.

4. Change the water every 30 minutes to help the salmon fillets defrost faster.

5. After approximately 1-2 hours, the salmon fillets should be fully defrosted and ready for cooking.

MOWI Atlantic Salmon Portion Tuscan Herb, 12oz, Fresh Never Frozen

Check Price

Amazon.com

This method is quicker than the refrigerator method but requires more active monitoring to change the water regularly.

Now that you know how to defrost frozen salmon fillets, you can proceed to cook them according to your desired recipe.

Seasoning and Marinating

Seasoning and marinating the frozen salmon fillets can help enhance the flavor and texture of the fish. Here are some tips and ideas to make your salmon even more delicious:

Before cooking, sprinkle the frozen salmon fillets with your preferred seasonings. You can use a combination of sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs to add a flavorful kick.

If you prefer a tangy flavor, try marinating the frozen salmon fillets in a mixture of lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, teriyaki sauce, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let the fillets marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish.

Amazon Fresh Brand, Atlantic Salmon Skin On Fillet Portions, 12 Oz, Responsibly Sourced (Previously Frozen)

Check Price

Amazon.com

Remember to adjust the seasonings and marinating times based on your personal preferences. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor for your frozen salmon fillets.

Cooking Methods

There are a few different methods you can use to cook frozen salmon fillets. Here are some of the most popular cooking methods:

Baking:

To bake frozen salmon fillets, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Grilling:

To grill frozen salmon fillets, preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the frozen fillets on a piece of aluminum foil or a grilling mat to prevent sticking. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once halfway through, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness.

Pan-Frying:

To pan-fry frozen salmon fillets, heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the frozen fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable, and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and lightly browned.

365 By Whole Foods Market, Salmon Sockeye Fillets Frozen, 10 Ounce

Check Price

Amazon.com

Steaming:

To steam frozen salmon fillets, fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the frozen fillets in a steamer basket or on a heatproof plate, cover the pot, and steam for about 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked and flakes easily.

These cooking methods can be adjusted based on the thickness of the salmon fillets and your personal preference for doneness. Remember to always follow food safety guidelines and ensure the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal food safety.

Baking Frozen Salmon Fillets

Baking is an easy and delicious way to cook frozen salmon fillets. Here is a simple method:

Ingredients:

• Frozen salmon fillets
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: herbs, lemon slices

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove the frozen salmon fillets from their packaging and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon fillets and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also sprinkle herbs or place lemon slices on top for extra flavor.
4. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
5. Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Note: It’s important to follow safe food handling practices when cooking frozen salmon fillets. Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with the salmon to avoid cross-contamination.

Now you can enjoy your delicious baked frozen salmon fillets! They make for a healthy and flavorful meal that can be served with a side of vegetables or a salad.

Grilling Frozen Salmon Fillets

Grilling frozen salmon fillets is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious and nutritious fish. Whether you forgot to thaw your salmon or simply prefer to cook it from frozen, grilling is a great cooking method that locks in the flavors and gives the fish a nice smoky taste.

Step 1: Preparing the Grill

Before you start grilling, make sure your grill is clean and preheated. Brush the grates with oil to prevent the salmon from sticking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Seasoning the Salmon

Remove the frozen salmon fillets from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. You can use a marinade if desired, but keep in mind that it may take longer for the fillets to cook.

Step 3: Cooking the Salmon

Place the seasoned salmon fillets directly on the grill grates, skin-side down. Close the lid and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets and the heat of your grill. To ensure the salmon is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) when done.

If you prefer your salmon well done, you can leave it on the grill for a bit longer, but be careful not to overcook it as it may become dry.

Serving the Grilled Salmon

Once the salmon is cooked to your liking, carefully remove it from the grill with a spatula. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve the grilled salmon fillets with your favorite side dishes or over a bed of salad for a light and healthy meal.

Q&A

How long do I need to cook frozen salmon fillets?

The cooking time for frozen salmon fillets depends on the thickness of the fillets and the cooking method. As a general rule, it takes about 20-25 minutes to cook frozen salmon fillets in the oven at 180°C/350°F. However, it is best to follow the instructions on the packaging or use a food thermometer to ensure that the salmon is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I cook frozen salmon fillets without thawing them first?

Yes, you can cook frozen salmon fillets without thawing them first. In fact, cooking frozen salmon fillets can help to lock in the moisture and prevent them from drying out. However, it may take slightly longer to cook the salmon compared to thawed fillets. It is important to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a food thermometer to ensure that the salmon is fully cooked.

What is the best method for cooking frozen salmon fillets?

The best method for cooking frozen salmon fillets is to bake them in the oven. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F and place the frozen salmon fillets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. You can also grill or pan-fry frozen salmon fillets, but these methods may require slightly different cooking times and techniques.

How can I tell if the frozen salmon fillets are cooked?

You can tell if the frozen salmon fillets are cooked by using a food thermometer. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F to ensure that it is fully cooked. Additionally, the salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it is done. If you are unsure, it is always better to cook the salmon for a few extra minutes rather than undercooking it.