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Cooking Temperature For Salmon

By Pillsbury Kitchens
Created September 23, 2024
A grilled salmon fillet served with sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and a side of rice pilaf.
Curious about cooking temperatures for salmon? This guide covers everything from the USDA suggestions to expert tips, ensuring you enjoy perfectly cooked fish every time.

Wondering what the optimal cooking temperatures for salmon are? You're in the right place. Salmon is a delightful meal that promises both flavor and flair, whether you're baking it in the oven or trying it in your air fryer, this Pillsbury guide will give you the quick and easy details for perfectly cooked and safe-to-eat salmon!

Finding the Perfect Temperature

The USDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure that it is fully cooked and safe to eat. This temperature guarantees that any potential bacteria or parasites are destroyed. Cooking at this temperature will ensure your salmon is both delicious and safe to eat.

Doneness Levels

  • Rare: 110-115°F – soft and slightly translucent. Not recommended.
  • Medium-Rare to Medium: 120-135°F – just starting to firm up this temperature guarantees a moist serving. Be aware that these temperatures don't meet USDA safety guidelines.
  • Medium: 145°F - 150°F – firm but flaky, the standard preference for a perfect fillet.
  • Well-Done: 151°F or higher – firm but can risk being dry.

Additional Tips for Cooking Salmon

  1. Monitor Cooking Time: Close attention is critical to prevent overcooking. Salmon can be cooked at a variety of temperatures with ease, but the thickness of the fish will always vary cook times.
  2. Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: This is the best tool for checking your salmon’s temperature for getting a perfect doneness every time.
  3. Rest After Cooking: Let your salmon rest for a few minutes after removing it from the heat. This redistribution of juices helps maintain that delicious, flaky texture.
  4. Alternative Methods: Try different ways of cooking salmon to figure out which you like best. Oven cooked is a common method with many great recipes on our site. However, don’t hesitate to grill, pan-sear, air fry, or change up the method using foil or parchment packets to lock in moisture and create unique flavors.

Recipe Ideas

Explore a variety of ways to enjoy salmon and don't forget to pair with your favorite veggies or a tangy sauce to round out the meal.

Oven Cooked Salmon Recipes

Grilled Salmon Recipes

Regardless of how you choose to cook it, just remember, the USDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is always safe to eat. While some chefs and home cooks may prefer lower temperatures to achieve a juicier texture, it's important to be aware that temperatures below 145°F do not meet USDA guidelines for safety and may pose a food safety risk. That being said, just know the USDA-recommended temperature still ensures a balance between safety and flavor, promising a delightful experience every time. Be sure to experiment and find your favorite method for cooking salmon. With this guide, enjoy every delicious, tender, and flaky fish in every bite!