Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake (Printable)
Golden, crunchy Parmesan-crusted salmon with tender flaky fish and aromatic herbs. Ready in 35 minutes for an impressive yet easy dinner.
# Ingredient List:
→ Salmon
01 - 4 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets
02 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Parmesan Crust
03 - 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
06 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (optional)
08 - 1 tsp garlic powder
09 - Zest of 1 lemon
→ For Serving
10 - Lemon wedges
11 - Extra chopped parsley
# How to Make:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
03 - In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan, panko, melted butter, parsley, dill (if using), garlic powder, and lemon zest. Mix until evenly moistened and crumbly.
04 - Spoon the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
05 - Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The crust transforms salmon into something that feels indulgent while keeping things surprisingly light
- Weeknight elegance that looks like you fussed but actually takes about five minutes of hands on time
02 -
- Soggy crust usually means the salmon wasn't patted dry enough or your oven runs cool
- That final two minute broil is what makes it restaurant quality but walk away and it will burn instantly
03 -
- Room temperature salmon cooks more evenly, so let it sit out while you prep everything else
- Watch from the oven window during those last few minutes because the difference between golden and burned is about sixty seconds