Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe

ByLucy
Jump to Recipe·5 from 3 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s both simple and absolutely mouthwatering, you’re going to love this Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe. The combination of flaky salmon with a golden, cheesy crust is one of those meals that feels fancy but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be on repeat in your meal rotation!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Crunchy, Flavorful Crust: The Parmesan cheese crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating a delightful texture that contrasts perfectly with tender salmon.
  • Quick & Easy: It comes together in about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights without skimping on flavor.
  • Bright Citrus Touch: A splash of lemon juice wakes up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese and fish.
  • Versatile & Customizable: You can add herbs or spices based on your pantry staples or mood, making it your own every time.
Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon, baked salmon with cheese crust, easy salmon dinner, healthy salmon recipe, cheesy baked salmon - A close-up of one piece of salmon with a thick crunchy topping that is golden brown and slightly burnt on the edges, with visible dried green herbs sprinkled all over. The salmon underneath is light pink with a smooth texture. The salmon is placed on a white plate with a white marbled surface visible in the background. The photo is taken in natural light showing clear and sharp details. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe plays a special role — from juicy salmon to the zesty lemon and that irresistibly crispy Parmesan topping. Plus, a few pantry staples make it a breeze to prepare anytime.

Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon, baked salmon with cheese crust, easy salmon dinner, healthy salmon recipe, cheesy baked salmon - Flat lay of a fresh, whole salmon fillet with vibrant pink flesh, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, another small white bowl filled with finely grated pale Parmesan cheese, a small white bowl holding bright yellow lemon juice, a small white bowl with dried green parsley flakes, a small white bowl containing off-white garlic powder, a small white bowl of coarse white salt crystals, and a small white bowl of cracked black peppercorns, all arranged symmetrically for perfect balance, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Salmon fillet: Opt for fresh, wild-caught if you can. The fattiness of salmon really complements the crunchy topping.
  • Olive oil: Helps the parmesan crisp up nicely and adds heart-healthy fats.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: This is the star for that crisp, cheesy crust—freshly grated will always give the best flavor.
  • Lemon juice: Adds bright acidity to cut through the richness of salmon and cheese.
  • Dried parsley: Gives herbal freshness; you can swap this for fresh parsley if handy.
  • Garlic powder: A subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe is how easily you can tweak it to suit your tastes or what’s in your pantry.

  • Add a smoky twist: I love sprinkling a little smoked paprika in the Parmesan mix to boost the flavor and add a lovely warm hue.
  • Fresh herbs swap: Sometimes I use fresh tarragon or dill instead of parsley for a different aromatic vibe.
  • Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the topping can give this dish a nice kick without stealing the spotlight.
  • Dairy-free option: Try substituting the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that’s vegan-friendly.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prep & Preheat

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). I like to line my baking sheet with parchment paper—it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup so much easier. While the oven’s warming, pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels to help the topping stick and crisp up nicely.

Step 2: Season and Oil the Salmon

Place your salmon skin-side down on the lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice right over the fish. This not only adds flavor but also helps the Parmesan mixture stick and turn deliciously golden as it bakes.

Step 3: Mix & Apply the Parmesan Crust

In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of smoked paprika here. Then sprinkle this cheesy mixture evenly over the salmon, covering the top with a nice layer. This step is my favorite because you see that transformation from raw fish to golden perfection happening right in front of you.

Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection

Pop your salmon into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes depending on thickness. You’re looking for the topping to become a gorgeous golden brown and crispy, while the salmon flakes easily with a fork. I usually check at the 12-minute mark and then keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon immediately for the best texture. This dish pairs beautifully with a light squeeze of extra lemon and maybe a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you’ve got them handy.

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Room Temperature Fish: Let your salmon sit out for 10 minutes before baking to help it cook evenly.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Give your fillet enough space on the tray to ensure even heat circulation and crispy topping.
  • Check for Doneness Early: Since ovens vary, start checking the salmon at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking and drying out.
  • Fresh Parmesan Is Key: Pre-grated bags don’t crisp up the same way, so always fresh-grate your cheese if possible.

How to Serve Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe

Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon, baked salmon with cheese crust, easy salmon dinner, healthy salmon recipe, cheesy baked salmon - A close-up of a thick, square piece of salmon on a white plate, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is light pink cooked salmon with a slightly flaky texture, and the top layer is a crispy, golden-brown breadcrumb crust mixed with finely chopped green herbs, giving a crunchy and speckled green look. The edges of the crust are darker, almost toasted to a deep brown, with small hints of black char. The plate sits on a white marbled texture surface, with soft natural light reflecting around the dish, highlighting the golden crust and moist salmon below. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to finish my salmon with a sprinkle of extra parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side. Sometimes, I toss a bit of lemon zest over the top for a bright, fresh punch that really wakes up the flavors.

Side Dishes

This crispy Parmesan salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. Honestly, anything green or lightly dressed complements the rich, cheesy crust perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the salmon over a bed of saffron-infused risotto or atop a colorful quinoa salad. It’s surprisingly elegant and makes your guests think you spent way longer than 25 minutes making it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon stores best in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I always let it cool completely before sealing so the topping stays as crisp as possible (though it will soften a bit).

Freezing

I’ve frozen this salmon twice with decent results. Wrap the chilled cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag. When thawing, do it overnight in the fridge to maintain texture.

Reheating

To keep the Parmesan crust crispy, I reheat in a hot oven (around 375°F) on a baking sheet for about 8-10 minutes rather than the microwave. It comes out far better this way, avoiding sogginess.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of fish for this Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe?

    Absolutely! While salmon is ideal for its richness and texture, white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia can also work well with this Parmesan crust. Just adjust the baking time since thinner fillets cook faster.

  2. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?

    If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute for its salty, sharp flavor. For a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy taste but won’t crisp up exactly the same way.

  3. How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?

    The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. The crust should be golden and crisp without being burnt.

  4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

    You can prep the Parmesan mixture and the salmon a few hours in advance and refrigerate it, but I recommend adding the topping right before baking to maintain maximum crispiness.

  5. Is this recipe keto or low-carb friendly?

    Yes! This Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly since it’s mostly protein and healthy fats with no added sugars or carbs.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe has been a go-to for me whenever I want something that feels special without a lot of fuss. It’s the kind of dish you’ll feel confident serving to guests or enjoying on a quiet night when you just want comfort food that’s a bit elevated. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for Parmesan and salmon at the store sooner than you planned!

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Crispy Parmesan Baked Salmon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 3 reviews
  • Author: Lucy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat
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Description

This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Baked Salmon is a flavorful, easy-to-make main dish featuring tender salmon fillets topped with a crunchy, cheesy parmesan crust baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels gourmet.

Ingredients

Salmon and Marinade

  • 1.5 lbs salmon fillet
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Parmesan Crust

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the salmon evenly.
  2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  3. Place Salmon: Lay the salmon fillet skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring even thickness for uniform cooking.
  4. Drizzle Marinade: Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
  5. Make Parmesan Mixture: In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful crust mix.
  6. Apply Crust: Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of the salmon to form a crispy cheesy topping.
  7. Bake Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until cooked through and the Parmesan crust is golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can add a pinch of paprika to the Parmesan mixture for a little color and subtle smoky flavor.
  • Feel free to use fresh parsley instead of dried for a fresher taste and vibrant look.
  • This salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

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