Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake (Print)

Golden Parmesan-crusted salmon with tender flaky fish and aromatic herbs, ready in 35 minutes for an effortless dinner.

# 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 Advice:

01 -
  • The crust creates this magical texture contrast that makes restaurant salmon seem ordinary
  • Everything comes together in about 5 minutes of actual hands on time
  • It looks stunning but requires zero special skills or techniques
02 -
  • Patting the salmon completely dry is the difference between mediocre and amazing results
  • Watch closely during the last few minutes because the crust goes from golden to burned fast
  • Let the fish rest for a couple minutes before serving so the juices redistribute
03 -
  • Grate your own Parmesan because the flavor and texture difference is remarkable
  • Use room temperature salmon for more even cooking, just take it out 20 minutes before you start