how long to cook salmon on a blackstone

2 min read 06-02-2025

Mastering the Art of Blackstone Salmon

Cooking salmon on a Blackstone griddle offers a fantastic way to achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful fish. Its large surface area makes cooking for a crowd easy, and the even heat distribution ensures consistent results. But how long should you cook it? That depends on the thickness of your fillet and your preferred level of doneness. This guide will help you master the art of Blackstone salmon, every time.

Preparing Your Blackstone and Salmon

Before you even think about cooking time, preparation is key. A clean, hot griddle is crucial for even cooking and preventing sticking.

1. Clean and Preheat:

Thoroughly clean your Blackstone griddle with soap and water. Remove any food debris from previous cooks.
Preheat your griddle to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). You should see a light sheen of oil shimmering on the surface.

2. Prep Your Salmon:

Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Season generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Popular choices include garlic powder, paprika, dill, or lemon pepper.

Cooking Time: A Guide Based on Thickness

The thickness of your salmon fillet is the biggest factor influencing cooking time. Here’s a guideline:

Thin Salmon Fillets (under 1 inch):

Cooking time: 3-4 minutes per side.
Doneness: Look for a flaky texture and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The salmon will easily flake with a fork.

Medium-Thick Salmon Fillets (1-1.5 inches):

Cooking time: 4-6 minutes per side.
Doneness: Again, check for flakiness and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It may take a slightly longer time to reach the center.

Thick Salmon Fillets (over 1.5 inches):

Cooking time: 6-8 minutes per side, or even longer.
Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is reached throughout the thickest part of the fillet. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your griddle’s temperature.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding a knob of butter to the griddle during the last minute of cooking. Baste the salmon with the melted butter for a rich, buttery finish.

How to Tell if Your Salmon is Done

Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your salmon is cooked through. However, you can also look for these visual cues:

Color: The salmon will turn opaque and slightly lighter in color as it cooks.
Texture: It will flake easily with a fork when it’s cooked through.
Internal Temperature: As mentioned above, aim for 145°F (63°C).

Troubleshooting Common Blackstone Salmon Problems

Salmon Sticks to the Griddle:

Ensure your griddle is properly oiled and hot before adding the salmon. A little extra oil on the fillet itself can also help.

Salmon Cooks Too Quickly:

Reduce the heat on your Blackstone griddle. A slightly lower temperature will provide more even cooking.

Salmon is Overcooked:

Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Reduce cooking time if you notice it approaching 145°F (63°C) too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, serve your Blackstone salmon immediately. It pairs well with a variety of sides, including:

Roasted vegetables
Rice
Quinoa
A simple salad
Lemon wedges

Conclusion

Cooking salmon on a Blackstone griddle is a rewarding experience. By following this guide and paying attention to the thickness of your fillets, you’ll be able to cook delicious, perfectly cooked salmon every time. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your griddle's heat and personal preference. Enjoy!