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Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake

Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake

This Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake is a quick and easy dinner recipe that features tender, flaky salmon topped with a crunchy, golden parmesan crust. Perfect for weeknights or guests, it offers a delicious balance of cheesy flavor and satisfying texture while being rich in protein and omega-3s.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 fresh salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)

Parmesan Crust

  • 1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Seasoning and Garnishes

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure the salmon doesn’t stick and cleanup is effortless.
  2. Dry and Season Your Salmon: Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures the fish stays juicy while the exterior crisps beautifully.
  3. Mix the Parmesan Crust: In a small bowl, combine grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir in olive oil or melted butter until the mixture is crumbly but sticks together when pressed, ready to create that golden top.
  4. Apply the Topping: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish, then press the parmesan mixture evenly onto the top of each fillet, forming a thick crust that will bake to crispy perfection.
  5. Bake Until Crispy: Bake the salmon on the center rack for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The high heat helps create that prized crispy crust while keeping the fish moist inside.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and crispiness.
  • Pat salmon fillets dry before seasoning to ensure the crust sticks and crisps properly.
  • Keep a close eye during baking to prevent overcooking and maintain tender salmon.
  • Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Let the salmon bake rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven to settle the juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon bake, parmesan salmon, crispy salmon, baked salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy dinner, weeknight meal