Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake is the answer to busy weeknights and cravings for a healthy, delicious meal. I remember when I first created this recipe; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something comforting yet quick to prepare. The result was a delightful surprise: flaky salmon covered in a flavorful, crispy Parmesan crust. This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake has become a family favorite, and I'm so excited to share it with you! It's a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
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Why You Will Love This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
This Parmesan crusted salmon recipe is so much more than just a salmon dish; it's a hug in a pan! What I truly love about it is how unbelievably easy it is to make. Seriously, from prep to plate, you’re looking at under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you don't want to compromise on flavor or nutrition. The crispy, savory Parmesan crust perfectly complements the rich, flaky salmon, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible. It’s a healthy and delicious meal the whole family will adore!
Try my one pan lemon herb roasted chicken and veggies and see how easy dinner can be!
Ingredients Needed for This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Parmesan crusted salmon recipe. Get ready to savor every bite!
- Salmon Fillets: 4 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, finely grated
- Panko Bread Crumbs: 1/4 cup
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, fresh
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
How to Make This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake every single time!
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the salmon with olive oil.
- Make the Parmesan Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Apply the Crust: Evenly spread the Parmesan mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a lemon wedge, if desired.
How to Serve This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes.
- For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve with roasted asparagus or steamed green beans. The vibrant green vegetables offer a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the salmon.
- Quinoa or brown rice are excellent, healthy grains that complement this dish beautifully.
- A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing element.
- Garnish with lemon wedges.
How to Store This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
Proper storage ensures that your Parmesan crusted salmon recipe remains delicious and safe to eat.
- Refrigeration: Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each fillet individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer safe bag or container. Frozen salmon can maintain its quality for approximately 1-2 months.
- Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
Tips to Make This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake is a culinary masterpiece every time!
- Ingredient Swaps: For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute almond flour for panko bread crumbs for a gluten free option.
- Success Tips: Don't skip patting the salmon dry before adding the crust; this helps the crust stick better and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Avoid These Mistakes: Overbaking the salmon is a common mistake. Use a food thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Pro Tip: Broil the salmon for the last minute of cooking to get an extra crispy crust; keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
Helpful Notes for This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
Here are some additional insights.
- Salmon Skin: You can cook the salmon with the skin on or off, depending on your preference. If cooking with the skin on, place the skin side down on the baking sheet for a crispier texture.
- Ingredient Quality: Using high quality Parmesan cheese makes a big difference in the flavor of the crust. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best.
- Equipment Recommendation: A good quality baking sheet and a reliable oven thermometer are essential for consistent results.
Variation of This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake Recipe
Here are some fun and delicious ways to put a twist on this Parmesan crusted salmon recipe.
- Lemon Herb Twist: Add lemon zest and mixed herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano to the Parmesan crust for a bright, aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the Parmesan mixture for a spicy version.
- Mediterranean Style: Add sun dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the crust for a Mediterranean flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake?
The process involves combining Parmesan cheese with seasonings and breadcrumbs to create a crust. This mixture is then pressed onto salmon fillets before baking until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
What kind of salmon should I use?
You can use either fresh or frozen salmon fillets. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe.
Can I use different types of cheese for the crust?
While Parmesan is the star, you can experiment with adding other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile. A small amount of mozzarella can also be added for extra gooeyness.
What side dishes go well with Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake?
This salmon dish pairs well with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. A simple salad or a side of quinoa or rice also complement the dish nicely.
Conclusion
Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake proves that a healthy, flavorful meal can also be quick and effortless. With its tender, flaky salmon and irresistibly crispy Parmesan crust, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a light yet elegant dinner. Easy to customize and always satisfying, it’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again. Serve it with your favorite sides, make it your own, and don’t forget to share your results. For more easy and delicious meal ideas, be sure to follow us on Pinterest for daily inspiration.
Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake: The Easiest Parmesan Crusted Recipe!
This Crunchy Parmesan Salmon Bake is a quick, easy, and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Flaky salmon covered in a flavorful, crispy Parmesan crust.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Diet: Pescatarian
Nutrition:
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 5g
Fat: 25g
Ingredients
- 4 (6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the salmon with olive oil.
- In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper.
- Evenly spread the Parmesan mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a lemon wedge, if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute almond flour for panko bread crumbs for a gluten free option. Make sure salmon is dry before adding crust, this will prevent it from becoming soggy.