Looking for a dinner recipe that is quick to make yet bursting with flavor? Meet your new favorite dish—Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon. With its golden, cheesy crunch on the outside and tender, flaky salmon on the inside, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Not only is this dish packed with heart-healthy omega-3s from the salmon, but it also boasts a crispy topping that combines the savory richness of Parmesan cheese and the zesty brightness of fresh herbs. Best of all? It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it a delicious option even on your busiest days.
Ingredients
For this simple yet flavorful recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skin on or off depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (like oregano and basil)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian herbs, olive oil, and lemon zest. Stir well until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will be your perfectly crispy, cheesy crust.
Step 3: Season the Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure the topping sticks well. Then, sprinkle each fillet with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 4: Press the Topping onto the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if the skin is on. Spoon the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture over the top of each fillet, pressing it down gently to create an even layer. Be generous here—the more topping, the better the crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the salmon in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. For perfectly cooked salmon, make sure the internal temperature reaches 135°F to 145°F (57°C to 63°C) when measured at the thickest part.
To get that extra golden crust, broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes. Monitor closely during broiling to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
- A Fresh Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the salmon.
- Mashed Potatoes or Rice: For a heartier meal, pair your salmon with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy jasmine rice.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Salmon
- Go Fresh: Use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to customize the topping by adding paprika for a smoky flavor or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon while baking to avoid drying it out, as even a couple of extra minutes can overcook it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon hits all the right notes—it’s flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Thanks to the crispy Parmesan topping, it feels indulgent enough for a dinner party while still being approachable for a weeknight meal. Plus, it’s versatile and works with a variety of sides and sauces.
Treat yourself (and your family!) to this restaurant-quality dinner that’s ready in the time it takes to stream an episode of your favorite TV show. Once you taste that flaky interior beneath the golden crust, you’ll wonder how you lived without it.
Try It Tonight
Give this recipe a try and elevate your salmon game! Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, Crispy Parmesan Crusted Salmon is bound to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your results and tag us—we’d love to see your delicious creations!
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