Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake (Printable)
Golden crusted salmon with crispy Parmesan topping, fresh herbs, and lemon zest. Ready in 35 minutes.
# What You Need:
→ 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 It:
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 Suggestions:
01 -
- The golden Parmesan crust creates this incredible crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender fish
- Everything comes together in about 15 minutes of hands on time making it deceptively simple
02 -
- Pat the salmon completely dry with paper towels or the crust will slide right off in the oven
- Watch closely during the last few minutes because Parmesan can go from golden to burnt quickly
03 -
- Grate your own Parmesan from a wedge because the texture and melt make a noticeable difference
- Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving so the crust has time to set and firm up