If you’re looking for a quick, elegant, and protein-packed meal that comes together in minutes, these Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce are your answer. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive enough for date night, this recipe delivers tender, flaky salmon with a crispy exterior, paired with a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that’s downright addictive. The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a perfect golden crust on the salmon—no flipping or babysitting required. Plus, the creamy garlic sauce adds a luxurious touch that elevates this dish from simple to spectacular.
What makes this recipe truly stand out is its versatility and foolproof method. Whether you’re an air fryer novice or a seasoned pro, these salmon bites cook evenly every time, with minimal oil and maximum flavor. The garlic cream sauce—made with pantry staples—comes together in under 5 minutes but tastes like something from a high-end restaurant. This dish is also low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Serve it as an appetizer, over pasta, or with a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and indulgent.
What Makes “Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe” Special?
✅ Fast & easy – Ready in under 20 minutes
✅ Perfect texture – Crispy outside, tender inside
✅ Restaurant-quality sauce – Rich, garlicky, and creamy
✅ Meal-prep friendly – Cook salmon ahead, reheat in air fryer
✅ Diet-friendly – Low-carb, keto, gluten-free options
Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe
3
servings10
minutes10
minutes380
kcalIngredients for Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe
For the Salmon Bites
1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- For the Garlic Cream Sauce
2 tbsp butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions for Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe
- Season the Salmon
Pat salmon cubes dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until evenly coated.
- Air Fry the Salmon
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange salmon in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
While salmon cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine & Serve
Toss cooked salmon bites in the sauce or drizzle over top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon Bites
- Cauliflower rice (low-carb)
- Lemon garlic pasta
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli
- Crusty bread (for soaking up sauce)
- Simple green salad
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 28g (healthy fats from salmon & olive oil)
- Fiber: 0.5g
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Salmon Bites with Garlic Cream Sauce are a game-changer—quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. The air fryer delivers perfectly crispy salmon every time, while the luscious garlic sauce takes it to the next level. Whether you’re meal-prepping or craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe is a must-try.
