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.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: salmon bake, parmesan salmon, crispy salmon, baked salmon, quick salmon recipe, healthy dinner, weeknight meal