How Long to Cook Salmon in a Slow Cooker for Perfectly Tender Fish

It might seem strange to cook salmon in a slow cooker, but it’s a great way to get moist and tender salmon fillets or a whole side of salmon. The slow cooker’s gentle, even heat makes sure that your salmon cooks all the way through without drying out or getting too done.

How long should you cook salmon in a slow cooker until it’s done? It can take anywhere from one to three hours, depending on how thick it is. Fillets of salmon that aren’t as thick might need an hour on HIGH or two hours on LOW. A thicker salmon side may need up to 3 hours. Read on for more details, tips and recipes for slow cooker salmon success!.

Benefits of Cooking Salmon in the Slow Cooker

Here are some of the reasons you might want to use your slow cooker instead of the oven or skillet to cook salmon:

• Moist and tender salmon The moist, gentle heat of the slow cooker prevents the salmon from drying out. No more overcooked fish!

• Fuss-free method Simply add the salmon and seasoning to the slow cooker and turn it on The slow cooker does the work for you

• Doesn’t heat up the kitchen Great for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven

• Easy for entertaining: Cook a whole side of salmon as an elegant centerpiece.

• Hands-off cooking: You can prep it in the morning and come home to ready-to-eat salmon.

• Versatile uses for leftovers: Flake for salads, pasta, sandwiches, etc.

How to Cook Salmon in a Slow Cooker

Cooking salmon in the slow cooker is very simple, but there are a few tips to follow:

• Use skinless salmon fillets or a side of salmon. The skin can make the salmon overly moist and lead to a mushy texture.

• Place salmon on top of parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes removing the cooked salmon easier.

• Add a small amount of liquid. 2-3 tablespoons of water, wine or lemon juice provides moisture.

• Season salmon before cooking. Salt, pepper, herbs, citrus zest, garlic and spices work well.

• Cook for 1-3 hours on HIGH or LOW. See timing recommendations below.

• Allow salmon to rest 5 minutes after cooking. This finishes the cooking process.

• Remove bones before serving if using a side of salmon.

How Long to Cook Salmon Based on Thickness

The thickness of your salmon cut will determine the cooking time needed.

Thin Salmon Fillets

Thickness: Up to 1 inch

Cooking Time: 1 hour on HIGH or 2 hours on LOW

Thin salmon fillets about 1 inch thick only need a short cooking time. This allows the interior to become opaque while keeping the fish moist.

Thick Salmon Fillets

Thickness: 1 to 1 1/2 inches

Cooking Time: 2 hours on HIGH or 3 hours on LOW

Thicker fillets over an inch require more time for the heat to penetrate to the center without overcooking the outer portions.

Side of Salmon

Thickness: Varies (often 2-3 inches)

Cooking Time: 2.5 to 3 hours on HIGH

A whole side of salmon is considerably thicker than individual fillets. Cook for around 3 hours to ensure even cooking.

Tips for Cooking Salmon in the Slow Cooker

Follow these tips for getting the very best results when making slow cooker salmon:

• Use high quality fresh or thawed frozen salmon. Avoid cooking frozen salmon directly in the slow cooker.

• Cut salmon into uniform pieces for even cooking. Fillet a side of salmon for consistency.

• Place thicker pieces toward the outside edges. They take longer to cook through.

• Resist removing the lid during cooking. This releases heat and moisture.

• Use a spatula to remove cooked salmon carefully. Salmon is delicate and can break apart easily.

• Check for doneness at the minimum cook time. Salmon should be opaque in the center when done.

• Add lemon slices or dill sprigs on top at the end for bonus flavor.

Slow Cooker Salmon Recipes to Try

To get you started, here are some delicious recipe ideas for cooking salmon in the slow cooker:

Simple Slow Cooker Salmon

This easy recipe calls for minimal ingredients — salmon, lemon, herbs, and seasonings. It allows the flavor of the salmon to really shine. Cook for 1-2 hours.

Maple Dijon Slow Cooker Salmon

The sweet and tangy blend of maple syrup and Dijon mustard gives this salmon recipe incredible flavor. It’s garnished with fresh parsley or dill.

Garlic Butter Salmon and Vegetables

Cooking salmon and vegetables like potatoes, broccoli, and carrots together in one pot makes for a fast, healthy dinner. Infusing everything with garlic butter adds richness.

Slow Cooker Salmon with Asparagus

For a springtime meal, try cooking salmon placed on top of fresh asparagus spears. The juices from the salmon lend flavor to the asparagus.

Cajun Slow Cooker Salmon

Give salmon fillets a robust Cajun kick with the spice blend, red pepper flakes, paprika, and cayenne in this recipe. Serve over rice to soak up the juices.

Honey Soy Salmon

Honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic make the simple sauce for this Asian-inspired salmon. It’s excellent served with stir fried vegetables and rice.

Lemon Dill Salmon

Dill and lemon are a classic flavor combo with salmon. Cook the fillets nestled amongst fresh dill sprigs and lemon slices for incredible results.

The Best Salmon Cuts for Slow Cooking

You have options when it comes to choosing salmon to cook in the slow cooker. Here are the advantages of the most common cuts:

• Salmon fillets: Quick-cooking and easy to portion into servings.

• Salmon steaks: Less delicate than fillets while still cooking quickly.

• Side of salmon: Makes an elegant, impressive whole fish centerpiece.

• Salmon tail section: Often more affordable; great for chowders.

Any of these salmon options work beautifully with the moist heat of the slow cooker. Choose based on your meal and budget needs.

Serving Salmon Straight from the Slow Cooker

Slow cooked salmon is delicious served straight out of the slow cooker warm and flaking apart. Here are some easy sides and serving ideas:

• Serve with rice or quinoa and steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

• Pair with roasted potatoes or a green salad for a satisfying dinner.

• Make salmon tacos by flaking onto warmed corn tortillas and adding toppings like avocado and slaw.

• Stuff salmon into a pita pocket along with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki sauce.

• Toss with pasta and veggies for a salmon noodle bowl.

• Plate with charred asparagus and lemon wedges for an elegant presentation.

Tips for Leftover Slow Cooker Salmon

Leftover slow cooked salmon keeps well for 2-3 days refrigerated and makes many delicious meals. Here are some ideas:

• Flake into a grain salad or pasta salad for lunch.

• Add to omelets, frittatas or breakfast tacos.

• Mix into risotto along with extra veggies.

• Make salmon patties or salmon cakes.

• Use in place of tuna for classic tuna melts or tuna salad.

• Mash and mix with cream cheese or mayo for salmon dip.

• Fill a sandwich or pita along with greens for an easy work lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of salmon works best? Wild caught salmon like sockeye and king/Chinook have the best flavor for slow cooking. But less expensive farmed Atlantic salmon works too.

Should I add liquid to the slow cooker? A small amount of water, broth, or juice (2-3 tablespoons) is usually sufficient. This helps create steam.

What temperature should I cook the salmon to? Salmon is best cooked to between 140-145°F internally. Check with a thermometer if concerned it’s underdone.

Can I cook salmon from frozen? No, always thaw salmon fillets or sides fully before slow cooking for food safety and the best texture.

Do I need to adjust cook times for high vs. low? Yes, HIGH cuts the time about in half compared to cooking on LOW. Refer to a recipe’s recommended settings.

Should I flip the salmon during cooking? Flipping isn’t necessary since the heat circulates all around. Just place thicker parts toward the edges to cook evenly.

Make Moist, Flavorful Salmon in Your Slow Cooker

Cooking salmon in the slow cooker yields impressive results you can achieve with minimal effort. Prepare individual fillets or an elegant whole side for