How Long to Grill Stuffed Salmon for Perfectly Cooked Fish

Salmon is a versatile and healthy fish that can be prepared in endless ways One delicious option is to stuff salmon with your favorite fillings before grilling Grilling imparts a wonderful smoky flavor while keeping the salmon moist and flaky on the inside. However, grilling stuffed salmon requires some finesse to ensure both the fish and filling are thoroughly cooked without overdoing it. So how long should you grill stuffed salmon?

Grilling Time Depends on Thickness and Temperature

There are a few main things that affect how long stuffed salmon needs to be grilled before it gets too dry:

• Thickness of the salmon fillet – Thicker cuts will obviously take longer to cook through to the proper internal temperature Fillet portions around 1-inch thick could cook in 20-30 minutes while a whole side of salmon may need 40-60 minutes

• Stuffing ingredients – Dense fillings with meats or vegetables will require more grill time than lighter seafood fillings to reach doneness

• Grill temperature – Cooking over direct high heat the entire time will speed up cooking while lower indirect heat takes longer. Using a combination works well.

• Doneness preference – Salmon can be enjoyed anywhere from rare at 110°F up to well-done at 145°F internal temp. The target temp impacts total cook time.

So the exact grilling duration depends on the specifics of your recipe and preferences. But there are some general timelines you can follow.

Grilling Guides for Stuffed Salmon Portions

For individual stuffed salmon fillets that are about 1 to 1 1/2-inches thick, these grill times work well:

• 20-25 minutes over direct medium heat, turning once halfway through
• 25-35 minutes over indirect medium heat, no need to flip
• 30-40 minutes using indirect then direct heat combo

These numbers come from the idea that medium-rare salmon with lightly cooked stuffing should have an internal temperature of 125 to 135°F when it’s done.

If using a thicker salmon cut or whole side of salmon, extend grill times to 40-60 minutes range, depending on thickness. Monitor the inner temp in a few spots to ensure even doneness.

Key Tips for Grilling Stuffed Salmon Right

Follow these tips for grilling stuffed salmon success:

• Use skin-on fillets – The skin helps hold the filling in place and keeps salmon moist.

• Get an instant-read thermometer – Take the guesswork out and grill to precise inner temps.

• Create a barrier – Put salmon on a cedar plank or foil to prevent sticking.

• Preheat grill properly – Reach desired temp before adding fish.

• Cut slits for even cooking – Slice partially through thicker cuts so heat penetrates.

• Use indirect heat – Prevent burning and drying out, especially for whole sides.

• Finish over direct heat – Quickly sear skin side to crisp it up after initial indirect cooking.

Sample Stuffed Salmon Recipes and Grilling Times

To give a better idea of stuffed salmon grilling durations, here are some example recipes with estimated cook times:

Lemon Crab Stuffed Salmon

Prep time: 30 minutes

Grill time: 25-35 minutes

Recipe details: 1 lb salmon fillets, boned, skinned, 1-inch thick; stuffed with 6 oz crabmeat, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, lemon zest and juice.

Feta and Spinach Stuffed Salmon

Prep time: 20 minutes

Grill time: 35-40 minutes

Recipe details: 2-lb salmon fillet, butterflied, stuffed with feta, spinach, red onion, garlic, lemon juice.

Corn and Bacon Stuffed Whole Salmon Side

Prep time: 45 minutes

Grill time: 40-50 minutes

Recipe details: 3-4 lb salmon side, stuffed with corn, bacon, shallots, cream cheese. Grilled over indirect heat.

Helpful Resources on Cooking Times

To dive deeper on nailing the perfect cook times, check out these guides:

• How to Tell When Salmon is Done Grilling – Covers carryover cooking, touch tests, and inner temp.

• How to Grill a Whole Salmon Side – Tips from Food Network on big cut salmon.

• Cedar Plank Salmon Grilling Times – Reference chart with thickness, temp, and times.

The beauty of grilled stuffed salmon is that you can play around with creative fillings and cooking methods. Keep these general grill time guidelines handy, use a thermometer to dial in the perfect doneness, and you’ll have tender, flaky salmon encasing craveable centers in no time. Experiment with different woods for smoking, rubs, glazes, and sauces to take this recipe over the top. Grilled stuffed salmon never disappoints for a weekend dinner or backyard gathering. Just be sure to remove it right on time before it dries out or the filling gets overcooked. Mastering the grill times helps you serve up the ultimate salmon feast.