Cast Iron Blackened Salmon Recipe

Name: Cast Iron Blackened Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound salmon fillet, descaled; 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more if needed); 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning; 1/2 tablespoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pineapple habanero salsa

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This Cast Iron Blackened Salmon Recipe delivers a perfectly crispy crust with bold, smoky flavor. Cooking salmon in a preheated cast iron skillet locks in moisture while creating a deep, golden sear. A blend of spices enhances the fish without overpowering it, and a quick finish in the pan ensures a tender, flaky interior.

Enjoy cast iron cooking? Try these Cast Iron Chicken Thighs next for another crispy, flavorful dish.

cast iron salmon blackened with habanero salsa close up with crispy skin bark

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Cooking salmon in a cast iron skillet is one of the most effective ways to achieve a crisp, well-seared crust while keeping the inside moist and flaky. This technique has deep roots in Southern and Cajun cuisine, where high-heat cooking intensifies flavor and texture.

This dish pairs well with our Easy Jasmine Rice made in the Instant Pot. The Pineapple Habanero Salsa adds the perfect sweet and spicy kick!

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Why We Love This Recipe
Cast Iron Salmon Recipe Ingredients
Substitutions & Variations
How to Make Blackened Cast Iron Salmon
Why Cast Iron is a Good Method for Cooking Salmon
Expert Tips for Success
Storage
Recipe FAQs
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Why We Love This Recipe

Deliciously Crispy Coating: The perfect blend of spices creates a tasty, crispy crust.
Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples and fresh salmon.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a fast meal.
Impressive Presentation: A show-stopping dish that's sure to wow your guests.

Cast Iron Salmon Recipe Ingredients

A labeled image of ingredients needed to make this skillet salmon recipe.

Salmon Fillet: We used a fresh farm-raised salmon that was raise in aquifer water free of mercury and microplastics. Wild-caught salmon works well, too.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and adds richness.
Blackened Seasoning: A mix of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, white pepper, and salt.

A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions & Variations

Salmon: You can use other firm fish like red snapper or grouper.
Blackened Seasoning: Use a store-bought Cajun seasoning mix if you're short on time.

How to Make Blackened Cast Iron Salmon

cast iron salmon being patted dry before cooking

STEP 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks well. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.

cast iron salmon raw with seasoning on top

STEP 2: Season the Salmon

Sprinkle the blackened seasoning evenly over the fillet, pressing it gently to adhere.

cast iron salmon skillet smoking with oil

STEP 3: Preheat the Pan

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. This should take about 3-5 minutes and you should see a faint wisp of smoke. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and swirl it around in the skillet.

cast iron salmon cooked with blackened top

STEP 4: Cook the Salmon

Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillet into the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillet, until a dark crust forms and the salmon is cooked through.

Why Cast Iron is a Good Method for Cooking Salmon

Even heat distribution ensures the salmon cooks evenly without hot spots.
Cast iron skillets can maintain high temperatures for perfect searing and a crispy crust.
The skillet develops a non-stick seasoned layer over time, enhancing flavor.
Cast iron is built to last for generations with proper care, has no synthetic coating, and increases iron content in food.

Expert Tips for Success

👩‍🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!

✔️ DO Wait until the skillet is hot before adding the salmon to prevent sticking.
✔️ DO Let the salmon sear undisturbed. Moving it too soon can prevent proper caramelization.

Storage

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, reheat them in a hot skillet or oven to maintain the crispiness.

Recipe FAQs

How do you keep salmon from sticking to a cast iron skillet?

To prevent salmon from sticking to a cast iron skillet, pat the salmon dry and ensure the pan is properly preheated before adding the fish. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes, then add a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil like avocado or canola oil.

Should you cook salmon with the skin on in cast iron?

Yes! Cooking salmon skin-side down in a cast iron skillet helps create a crispy texture while protecting the delicate flesh from overcooking. The skin acts as a natural barrier against direct heat, locking in moisture and flavor. For the best results, press the fillet down gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to ensure even searing.

What is the best temperature to cook salmon in a cast iron skillet?

For perfectly cooked cast iron salmon, aim for a skillet temperature of medium-high heat (around 400°F / 204°C). Cook the fillet for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until reaching a safe internal temperature.