Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon

Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that combines the bold flavors of garlic, herbs, and tangy parmesan cheese with the rich, tender texture of salmon. This baked version delivers a golden, crispy crust over flaky fish that’s both wholesome and indulgent. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a dinner party centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple yet packs a punch in both flavor and presentation. The parmesan crust adds a savory, crispy topping that complements the buttery salmon beautifully. It’s baked—not fried—making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture. Best of all, it comes together in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Lemon zest
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: Dijon mustard or mayonnaise for extra adhesion and flavor

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
3. In a small bowl, mix parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the top of each salmon fillet with olive oil, melted butter, or a thin layer of Dijon mustard or mayo.
5. Press the parmesan mixture onto the top of the salmon, patting gently to help it adhere.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
7. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
8. Serve with lemon wedges and a side of vegetables or salad.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Herb Blend: Add dried thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning to the crust mixture for extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the crust or serve with a spicy aioli.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds mixed with parmesan.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed nuts in place of traditional breadcrumbs.
• Single-Sheet Meal: Add asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the baking tray for an all-in-one dinner.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crisp crust.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before adding the crust and baking.

Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use just parmesan or substitute with ground nuts or a low-carb alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can be made gluten-free with GF breadcrumbs or nut-based crust.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the crust and store separately, then assemble and bake right before serving.

What sides go well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad are great options.

Can I use another fish instead of salmon?

Yes, this works well with cod, halibut, or trout—just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Should I remove the skin from the salmon?

It’s not necessary, but you can remove it if you prefer. The skin helps keep the fish moist.

Can I cook this in the air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes. The crust may get even crispier.

Is it okay to use pre-grated parmesan?

Freshly grated parmesan gives the best texture, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make recipe that’s ideal for busy nights or impressive dinners. With its crispy topping and moist, flaky interior, it’s sure to become a regular on your meal rotation. Healthy, satisfying, and full of savory goodness, this dish delivers every time with minimal effort.

Print