Crispy Parmesan Salmon Bake (Print version)
Golden-crusted salmon with Parmesan topping ready in 35 minutes
# Ingredient List:
→ Fish
01 - 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless, pin-boned
→ Parmesan Crust
02 - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
03 - ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
04 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
07 - ¼ tsp ground black pepper
08 - Zest of 1 lemon
09 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
→ To Serve
10 - Lemon wedges
11 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
→ For the Pan
12 - 1 tbsp olive oil
13 - Salt, to taste
# How To Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil.
02 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt. Arrange them on the prepared tray.
03 - In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan, panko, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and lemon zest. Drizzle in melted butter and mix until topping resembles damp sand.
04 - Press a generous layer of Parmesan mixture onto the top of each salmon fillet, covering evenly.
05 - Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until salmon is just cooked through and the crust is golden and crisp.
06 - Remove from oven and rest for 2 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The crispy cheese crust creates this incredible texture contrast that everyone fights over
- You can get it in the oven in under ten minutes even on your busiest nights
02 -
- Dry the salmon thoroughly because moisture between the fish and crust will make everything soggy
- Press the topping firmly or it will slide off during baking leaving bare patches
03 -
- Grate your own Parmesan because the flavor difference is honestly night and day
- Watch closely during the last few minutes since the cheese can go from perfect to burnt quickly