Grilling Salmon on a Paper Bag to Remove the Skin
- Angela Kuchenbecker
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
Grilling salmon is a tasty way to enjoy this delicious fish without the fuss of dealing with the skin. One cool trick to make this easier is using a paper bag. It keeps the fish moist and flavorful while you grill. Here’s a quick guide on how to use a paper bag to get that skin off after grilling.

🎣So, I once dated a guy named Steve who was an avid fisherman. I mean, he was *obsessed* with it! 🚩 After 4 months of "catching feelings," he decided to end our relationship via a text message while he was heading back from **pig 🐖 wrestling** in Crivitz! 🚩🚩 I can't make this sh*t up! 🤦♀️ But hey, one good thing came out of that relationship: I learned this easy way to get the skin off salmon when grilling! 😂 ...oh, and I got to eat a lot of fresh fish. 😎
Step 1: Get Your Paper Bag Ready
First things first, grab a clean paper bag—like a grocery bag or butcher paper. Make sure it’s sturdy enough to handle the heat from the grill. Tear off a flat piece that’s big enough for your salmon fillet to fit comfortably.
Step 2: Cut the Paper Bag
Now, take some scissors and cut a piece of the bag that’s about 1/2 inch bigger than your salmon on all sides.
Step 3: Place the Salmon on the Bag
Next up, lay the salmon fillet skin-side down on the cut piece of paper bag. This way, the skin stays on the bag while the fish cooks right on the grill. It makes taking the skin off super easy and keeps the salmon juicy and flavorful.
Step 4: Season the Salmon
Before you hit the grill, season your salmon however you like! A simple mix of salt and pepper works great, but feel free to get creative with herbs, spices, or marinades. Lemon zest, dill, garlic powder, or a drizzle of olive oil can really amp up the flavor. Let the seasonings sit for a few minutes to soak into the fish.

Step 5: Grill the Salmon
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s ready, carefully place the paper bag with the salmon on the grates. Close the lid and let it cook until it’s done to your liking. Cooking times vary on thickness. Remove from grill.

Step 6: Removing the paper bag
To take off the bag, just peel it away from the salmon starting at end (sometimes it's easier to flip the whole thing upside down, like my photo above), using the spatula to help and get it started. Skin stays attached to the paper bag, and you’ll end up with a beautifully cooked salmon fillet.
Salmon...YUM!
Using a paper bag to grill salmon is a fun and practical way to simplify the cooking process while boosting the flavor. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have perfectly grilled salmon without the hassle of skin removal. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or just a chill family dinner, this method is sure to impress!
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