Who says salmon is just for dinner? This air fryer breakfast sandwich turns a bagel and lox concept into something hot, hearty, and totally crave-worthy. It’s our twist on a deli classic with crispy air-fried salmon, tangy cream cheese, and all the fixings stacked high on a toasted bagel.
This is the recipe I reach for when I want a breakfast that feels a little fancy but doesn’t take forever. The air fryer gets the salmon just right – crisp on the outside and flaky inside – in under 10 minutes. That “everything bagel” seasoning does all the heavy lifting for flavor, making this sandwich a total winner.
Between the creamy spread, fresh veggies, and that savory, seasoned crust on the salmon, every bite is bold and satisfying. Whether you’re making brunch for two or need a protein-packed way to start the day, this one delivers.
🧰 Ingredients Overview
- Salmon fillets: Skinless works best for sandwiches. Look for fillets that are about the same size as your bagel.
- Cream cheese: Softened so it spreads easily. You can use regular or light.
- Everything bagel seasoning: A pantry MVP! Trader Joe’s version is popular, but any blend of sesame, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds will work.
- Bagels: Classic everything bagels are perfect, but any type will do (even gluten-free).
- Fresh toppings: Sliced tomato, red onion, arugula, and capers for that deli-style flair.
Optional Swap: For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese. You can also skip the bagel and serve over greens for a low-carb bowl.
🔧 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the salmon: Pat the fillets dry. Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese on the top of each fillet.
2. Season: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning over each fillet, pressing lightly to adhere.
3. Air fry: Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F for 8 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Toast bagels: While the salmon cooks, toast your bagels to your desired crispness.
5. Assemble the sandwiches: Layer the bagel bottoms with arugula, tomato, and onion. Add the salmon fillet, then top with capers (if using) and the bagel tops.
6. Serve: Dig in while it’s warm and melty!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese: It won’t spread well and might tear the salmon.
- Skipping the press: Gently pressing the seasoning into the cream cheese helps it stick during air frying.
- Overcrowding the basket: Give the fillets space so they cook evenly and get crispy.
- Using too thick salmon: It may not cook through in 8 minutes; go for evenly-sized fillets.
🌍 Variations & Add-Ons
- Healthy swap: Mix the everything seasoning with a little olive oil instead of using cream cheese.
- Spicy twist: Add a smear of sriracha or use a spicy cream cheese.
- Low-carb option: Skip the bagel and serve over avocado or leafy greens.
- Herby version: Add fresh dill or chives to the cream cheese.
Serving Ideas: Pair it with a fruit salad, roasted breakfast potatoes, or a mimosa for the full brunch experience.
Bagel Salmon Breakfast Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat salmon fillets dry.
- Spread 1 tablespoon cream cheese on each fillet.
- Coat each fillet with 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning.
- Air fry at 380°F for 8 minutes.
- Toast bagels while salmon cooks.
- Assemble sandwiches with arugula, tomato, onion, salmon, and capers.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use olive oil instead of cream cheese.
- To make gluten-free, use GF bagels.
- Store leftover salmon separately; reheat in air fryer for 3 minutes.
If you try this, let me know in the comments! This sandwich is one of my favorites for making a weekend morning feel special.
Craving more air fryer breakfast ideas? Try my Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes or Crispy Air Fryer Bacon next.
