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How Long To Bake Salmon To Perfection At 400 4 Different Ways

You’ve likely heard of the many benefits of salmon before: it’s a high source of protein, it’s full of omega-3 fatty acids, and although it’s great to be knowledgeable of what exactly it is you’re putting into your body, none of that will matter if you don’t know how to actually cook it!

Salmon can be prepared in numerous ways, but one of our favorites is at 400. Baking salmon at 400 will not only give your filets more color than at a lower temperature, but it will also allow them to become crispier. 

So now the question is, for how long? The answer really depends on the method you decide to prepare your salmon, but generally, this fish can be completed in under 20 minutes. 

Whether you’re looking to add some more omega-3 into your diet, or you simply can’t get enough of salmon, for a delicious and flavorful end result, these four easy methods are a must-try. 

Say goodbye to being timid when it comes to cooking fish in the kitchen and say hello to simple, delectable, juicy salmon! 

How Long To Bake Salmon at 400 In Foil?

Cooking salmon in the oven in foil is super easy and takes just 15 minutes to cook. 

Plus, it only requires 3 simple ingredients!

If you’ve got an oven and an appetite for fish, get out your salmon filets and try this delicious flaky and buttery method! You won’t be disappointed.

The key to achieving the perfect salmon at 400 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven is by taking the salmon out right before it’s done and allowing it to sit for an extra period of time (internal temperature should be 135-140 when you remove it from the oven and 145 after it rests).

This will help to ensure your fish does not become dry and overdone. 

For optimal results that will have the whole family raving, try Atlantic salmon with this method!

RELATED: 25 Yummy Canned Salmon Recipes You’ll Love

How Long To Cook Sockeye Salmon At 400?

Sockeye salmon is a smaller cut of salmon that is even juicier and more flavorful than regular salmon. 

Sockeye salmon is also a great meal idea that pairs well with a variety of foods, including asparagus. 

In addition, cooking sockeye salmon is ultra easy and only takes 12 minutes. 

What are you waiting for? Go get yourself some sockeye!

Prior to seasoning your salmon, it’s important to ensure that the salmon has been patted dry. 

Speaking of seasonings, sockeye salmon is full of flavor and doesn’t require a lot of spices! We recommend garlic, thyme, lemon juice and of course, salt and pepper. 

When it’s time to get the salmon in the oven, it’s also vital that the skin side of the fish is facing downward. 

As a last note, if you prefer a filet with a browned top, remove the salmon from the oven a couple minutes before it’s done and place it in a broiler on high, until the top is brown. 

How Long To Grill Salmon At 400?

Sometimes you just want that smokey flavor that only a grill can provide. When bbq season arrives and you’re in the mood for some delicious salmon, this recipe is just what you need. 

Like the other methods, grilling is super quick and only takes 12 minutes to cook. 

Can someone say summer grill party?

When you’re deciding on what kind of salmon to purchase, it’s always a great idea to opt for one with skin as this will not only help to preserve the flavors, but it’s also easier for grilling purposes. 

For even more flavor, we highly recommend marinating your salmon several hours prior to cooking. 

In terms of cooking time, you know your salmon is done when it flakes easily. It’s important to undercook the filets slightly as they will continue to cook when they’re resting. 

While we’re on the topic of resting, do not skip this step!! Resting will allow the salmon to become even more juicy and tasty. 

RELATED: How Long To Bake Salmon At 350 Four Ways

How Long To Bake Salmon In The Airfryer At 400?

Cooking fish can be intimidating. Luckily, with the air fryer method, the work is all done for you!

Preparing your salmon in the air fryer is great for multiple reasons. Firstly, salmon is very firm which means it’s not going to fall apart. Secondly, air fryers work in a way that makes the salmon super crispy on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside. 

Lastly, it’s a super fast method that will only take you 10 minutes to cook!

It doesn’t get better than that. 

When it comes to preparing your salmon in the air fryer, both fresh and frozen salmon work. Some other things to keep in mind when shopping for salmon is to stick with cuts that are brightly colored (no visible discoloration). 

Before seasoning, it’s really important to pat your salmon dry so that the spices can better adhere to the filets. When adding the seasonings, try pressing it into the salmon, so it really sticks. 

Like an oven, different air fryers can operate slightly differently. To ensure you don’t overcook your salmon, try placing a thermometer in the thickest part of the filet.

When it’s at approximately 135-140 degrees, your salmon should be removed immediately (it will continue to cook while it rests). 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Temperature Should Salmon Be Cooked To?

The ideal temperature that is recommended for salmon is 145 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it’s important to remember that salmon will continue to cook after being removed from the heat, which is why it’s often advised to remove your salmon at around 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit. 

What Does Salmon Taste Like?

Salmon is a type of fish that tends to be more mild in flavor. Although all salmon possesses a rich, oily taste, depending on how you prepare it will often determine the resulting flavors. 

For example, when you bake or grill your salmon, it will contain more of a citrusy and buttery flavor. 

In contrast, canned salmon tends to be more bland and oily. 

Adding spices will of course also impact the overall taste of your salmon. For the best results, we highly recommend using seasonings such as parsley, dill, rosemary, thyme, garlic and lemon juice. 

Is Salmon Good For Your Health?

You bet! Salmon is extremely healthy as it is full of omega-3 fatty acids and a great source of protein. 

Eating salmon regularly has been associated with lower blood pressure, a decrease in inflammation as well as better brain health. 

According to the FDA, it is recommended that you eat fish, such as salmon, two to three times a week. 

Is Undercooked Salmon Safe To Eat?

No, you should never eat salmon raw as it can lead to serious illness. However, if undercooked salmon is what you prefer, sushi-grade salmon has been established as a safe alternative to raw salmon. 

What Is The Difference Between Salmon And Sockeye Salmon?

Regular salmon, such as Atlantic salmon, is larger in size and possesses a different color from sockeye salmon. Regular salmon is more of a pale orange and tends to be more readily available year-round.

It is likely the type of salmon you are most familiar with. This salmon is oily, thick, flaky and contains a more mild flavor. 

Sockeye salmon, on the other hand, is a species of salmon native to the rivers that feed into the northern pacific ocean. It is significantly smaller and thinner in size than regular salmon and possesses a vibrant red hue as well as an intense, rich flavor. 

What Do You Do If You Don’t Have A Thermometer?

Cooking salmon perfectly is all about ensuring the filets reach an exact temperature. 

As mentioned, salmon is considered to be done when the temperature hits 145 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Using a thermometer for this will always be the most accurate option, however, if you don’t have one on hand, you can also tell when salmon is finished based on its color. 

Raw salmon tends to be more translucent in appearance while when it’s fully cooked, will turn into an opaque pink hue. 

How Long To Bake Salmon at 400 In Foil?

How Long To Bake Salmon at 400 In Foil?

Cooking Time : 5 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Salmon is spiced and cooked in the oven on foil and then taken out once desired temperature has been reached. The salmon then rests for an extra period of time to reach a higher temperature.

Materials

  • Salmon
  • Olive oil
  • Seasonings

Tools

  • Oven
  • Sheet pan
  • Foil
  • Thermometer

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Line your sheet pan with foil.
  3. Place your salmon on the foil-lined pan.
  4. Rub olive oil (or, if you prefer, avocado oil) onto the salmon
  5. Grab seasonings and spice up your filets 
  6. Allow the salmon to bake for 15 minutes, or until the thickest part of the salmon has reached a temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit (make sure not to overcook it!)
  7. Once the salmon has hit a temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit, remove it from the oven
  8. Allow the salmon to rest until it reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit 
How Long To Cook Sockeye Salmon At 400?

How Long To Cook Sockeye Salmon At 400?

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Rest Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Sockeye salmon is seasoned on a baking sheet and placed in the oven at 400. It is cooked until 135 degrees Fahrenheit and then placed outside the oven for 3 minutes to rest.

Materials

  • Sockeye salmon
  • Olive oil
  • Seasonings

Tools

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Brush
  • Broiler: optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
  2. Brush your baking sheet with olive oil 
  3. Place your salmon onto the baking sheet, ensuring the skin side is facing down
  4. Brush the remaining olive oil onto the filets 
  5. Add desired seasonings 
  6. Place the asparagus around the salmon and coat with the olive oil 
  7. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 10 to 12 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted the thickest part of the salmon reads 135 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit 
  8. Remove salmon from the oven and allow to rest for three minutes
How Long To Grill Salmon At 400?

How Long To Grill Salmon At 400?

Prep Time: 10 minutes
cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Salmon is marinated (if desired) and then placed on the grill for 12 minutes and then removed to rest for another few minutes to lock in the juices and flavor. 

Materials

  • 1 pound of salmon
  • Marinade of your choice
  • Oil

Tools

  • Brush
  • Gas Grill
  • Grill Spatula
  • Plate/cutting board

Instructions

  1. If you decide to use a marinade, allow your salmon to soak in it for at least an hour prior to grilling
  2. Preheat your gas grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit 
  3. Scrape off any leftover bits from previous cooking
  4. Apply oil to the grill to ensure sticking doesn’t occur 
  5. Place your salmon filets skin side up onto the grill 
  6. Close the grill lid and allow salmon to cook for 6-8 minutes
  7. Flip the salmon and allow other side to cook for an additional 6-8 minutes
  8. Remove from grill and allow salmon to rest for a couple more minutes on a plate or cutting board
How Long To Bake Salmon In The Airfryer At 400?

How Long To Bake Salmon In The Airfryer At 400?

Prep Time: 5 minutes
cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Salmon is seasoned and then placed in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes.

Materials

  • Salmon
  • Seasonings

Tools

  • Air fryer
  • Bowl

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon dry 
  2. Season your salmon
  3. Add your spiced salmon to the basket of the air fryer, ensuring the skin side is facing downward
  4. Turn your air fryer on at 400 degrees Fahrenheit 
  5. Cook for 10 minutes and remove

Jess Smith
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