This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a tasty dish that features flaky salmon topped with a crunchy Parmesan topping. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor!
Honestly, every bite feels like a special treat—like having a fancy dinner at home! I love making it with a side of veggies for a perfect meal that feels effortless.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If salmon isn’t available, try using other fish like trout or cod, but adjust cooking time as needed. You can also use frozen fillets—just make sure to thaw them fully before cooking.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds moisture and a creamy texture. If you want a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works well too! It adds the same creaminess but with a bit more protein.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese gives a lovely flavor and golden crust. Freshly grated cheese is best, but for a quicker option, the pre-grated kind will do, just keep an eye on how it melts.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a delightful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers will work, but you may lose some of that extra crunchiness that panko offers.
Lemon Zest: Lemon zest adds brightness to the dish. If you don’t have lemons, a splash of lemon juice can substitute, but zest provides a stronger and fresher flavor.
How Can I Make the Perfect Parmesan Crust?
Creating a tasty Parmesan crust takes a few simple steps. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix the mayonnaise and cheese mixture until smooth for even flavor.
- Don’t skimp on the panko! Press it down gently on top of the cheese mixture for a sturdy crust.
- Keep an eye on the oven—the salmon should be cooked through, and the crust should turn golden brown. If you need extra color, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the end works wonders.
This crust not only looks great but adds a delightful crunch to the tender salmon underneath. Enjoy making this dish! It’s sure to impress.
Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For The Crust Mixture:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Optional: cooked asparagus or other vegetables for side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to bake, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for the salmon to cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper, or simply give it a light greasing. This will help prevent the salmon from sticking.
3. Season the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick. Then, lightly sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
4. Mix the Crust Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and olive oil. Stir them together until they form a smooth and spreadable paste.
5. Apply the Crust:
Spread a generous layer of the Parmesan mixture over the top of each salmon fillet. Make sure to cover the fillets well so that every bite is packed with flavor.
6. Add the Crunch:
Take the panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle them evenly over the mayonnaise mixture, pressing down gently to help them stick. This will create a nice crunchy topping once baked.
7. Bake the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for about a minute. Then, top with extra chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges. It pairs beautifully with steamed or roasted asparagus or any favorite vegetable sides.
This recipe produces tender salmon fillets topped with a savory, crunchy Parmesan crust that is sure to delight. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Other Fish Instead of Salmon?
Absolutely! While salmon is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with other firm fish like trout or cod. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thicker fillets may require a bit longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers will work fine. Keep in mind that panko tends to give a lighter, crunchier texture, so you may miss that little extra bit of crispiness.
Can I Prepare the Crust Mixture in Advance?
Yes, you can! Mix the mayonnaise, cheese, and other ingredients in advance and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure everything is well combined.
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Store any leftover Parmesan Crusted Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to avoid drying it out.
