Reheat salmon gently with low heat and a little moisture so it warms without drying out. For leftover safety, reheat cooked salmon to 165 degrees F. If you are cooking raw salmon rather than reheating leftovers, the safe minimum internal temperature for fish is 145 degrees F.
Best Ways to Reheat Salmon
| Method | Setting | Approximate time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | 275 to 300°F, covered | 10 to 15 minutes | Best texture for fillets |
| Skillet | Low heat, covered | 3 to 6 minutes | Small portions and crispy skin |
| Air fryer | 275 to 300°F | 3 to 6 minutes | Firm fillets, quick reheating |
| Microwave | Low power, short bursts | 30-second intervals | Fastest, but easiest to overcook |
Oven Method
- Heat the oven to 275 to 300 degrees F.
- Place salmon in a small baking dish.
- Add a teaspoon of water, broth, butter, or lemon juice.
- Cover loosely with foil.
- Warm until the salmon is hot throughout and reaches 165 degrees F if it is a leftover.
Skillet Method
Use low heat and a lid. Add a small splash of water or broth, place the salmon skin-side down if it has skin, and warm gently. This method works well when you want to keep the outside from turning rubbery.
Microwave Method
The microwave is convenient but can make salmon dry. Use low power, cover the salmon, and heat in short intervals. Let it stand briefly between intervals so the heat can even out.
Storage and Safety
Refrigerate cooked salmon within 2 hours. Use refrigerated leftovers within 3 to 4 days. If the salmon smells sour, feels slimy, has visible mold, or was left out too long, discard it instead of reheating it.
FAQ
What temperature should reheated salmon reach?
For leftover safety, reheated salmon should reach 165 degrees F.
What temperature is raw salmon cooked to?
Raw salmon and other fish should be cooked to 145 degrees F.
How do you reheat salmon without drying it out?
Use low heat, cover the salmon, and add a small amount of moisture such as water, broth, butter, or lemon juice.
Can you reheat salmon in an air fryer?
Yes. Use a lower setting, about 275 to 300 degrees F, and check early because air fryers can dry fish quickly.
How long does cooked salmon last in the fridge?
As a leftover, cooked salmon is best used within 3 to 4 days when refrigerated promptly.