Irresistibly Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake (Print)

Tender salmon with a golden, crunchy Parmesan topping ready in 30 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Salmon

01 - 4 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Parmesan Crust

04 - 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
06 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ For Serving

11 - Lemon wedges

# 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. Place on prepared baking sheet, rub with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
03 - In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan, panko, parsley, dill (if using), garlic, lemon zest, and melted butter. Mix until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
04 - Press Parmesan crust evenly onto top of each salmon fillet, covering surface well.
05 - Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and crust is golden.
06 - If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness—watch closely to avoid burning.
07 - Serve hot with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The crust creates this incredible crunch that everyone fights over
  • Seven simple steps and you have dinner that feels like a treat
  • Works beautifully for weeknight dinners or dinner parties
02 -
  • Dry salmon fillets thoroughly before seasoning or the crust won't adhere properly
  • Really press the crust mixture onto the fish to prevent it from sliding off
  • The broiler step is optional but creates that restaurant-style finish everyone loves
03 -
  • Grate your own Parmesan from a block for the best melting and crisping action
  • Room temperature salmon cooks more evenly, so let it sit out for 15 minutes first