Transform your dinner routine with this incredibly flavorful and easy **Baked Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon**. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe promises a restaurant-quality meal on your table in just 20 minutes. Each succulent salmon fillet is lovingly brushed with olive oil, then generously coated in a vibrant, crispy mixture of fresh garlic, aromatic herbs, and savory Parmesan cheese. The result? A perfectly flaky interior crowned with an irresistible golden-brown crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This cherished recipe was first published in 2017 and has since been thoughtfully updated to provide even more value, tips, and a streamlined cooking experience for you.
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Delicious Baked Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon: Your New Favorite 20-Minute Meal
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a meal that’s both healthy and incredibly quick to prepare. Salmon fits this description perfectly, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen, making an appearance almost every week. Its versatility allows for endless culinary creativity, but this Baked Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon recipe stands out for its simplicity and explosive flavor. It’s a dish that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort, ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious and delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe transforms fresh salmon into a culinary masterpiece with a golden, cheesy, and herb-infused crust. The process is straightforward: a quick drizzle of olive oil, a generous coating of a garlic-herb-Parmesan mixture, and a short bake in a hot oven. The high heat ensures the salmon cooks through perfectly while the crust turns beautifully crisp and aromatic. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe incredibly approachable and rewarding.
Why Salmon is the Ultimate Weeknight Dinner Solution
Salmon is undeniably one of the most popular fish choices, and for good reason. Beyond its delicious taste and appealing texture, it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health and brain function, salmon also provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, essential vitamins like B12, and minerals such as potassium and selenium. Incorporating salmon into your diet regularly can contribute to overall well-being and provide sustained energy.
What truly makes salmon a weeknight hero is its rapid cooking time. Unlike many other proteins that demand longer preparation and cooking, salmon fillets can be ready in under 20 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy evenings. Its firm yet flaky texture holds up well to various cooking methods, from baking and pan-searing to grilling and air frying. This adaptability means you can experiment with different flavor profiles and techniques, ensuring salmon never gets boring. This Parmesan herb-crusted version, in particular, adds an exciting textural contrast and a burst of savory flavor that elevates the fish to a whole new level.
Choosing the Right Salmon Fillet: Skin On vs. Skin Off for Optimal Results
When preparing baked salmon, the choice between skin-on and skin-off fillets might seem minor, but it can significantly impact the final texture and moisture of your dish. For this recipe, I highly recommend using skin-on salmon. The skin acts as a natural protective barrier between the delicate fish flesh and the direct heat of the baking sheet. This helps to lock in moisture, ensuring the salmon remains incredibly juicy and tender on the inside, rather than drying out. As it bakes, the fat in the skin renders, contributing to a richer flavor and helping the fillet cook more evenly.
Even if you don’t typically enjoy eating salmon skin (like me!), leaving it on during cooking is still the superior choice. Once the salmon is perfectly cooked, removing the skin is incredibly easy. A well-cooked fillet will effortlessly “glide” off its skin, leaving you with a beautiful, flaky piece of fish ready to enjoy. This effortless separation is often a hallmark of salmon cooked to perfection, indicating that it’s moist, tender, and flavorful. Don’t underestimate the power of that skin to deliver an amazing culinary experience, even if it’s just a temporary cooking aid.
Crafting the Perfect Crispy Parmesan Herb Crust
The magic of this recipe truly lies in its incredible crispy crust. It’s a simple blend of ingredients that transforms a plain salmon fillet into an extraordinary dish. Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible topping, along with some insights into why these ingredients work so well together:
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan is the star here. As it bakes, it melts and then crisps up, forming a delicious, savory, and slightly salty crust. Using freshly grated Parmesan will give you the best flavor and texture, melting more evenly than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
- Fresh Parsley: The vibrant green of parsley not only adds a beautiful visual appeal but also a fresh, clean, and slightly peppery flavor that complements the richness of the salmon and cheese. Opt for fresh parsley over dried for the best aromatic qualities.
- Minced Garlic: Garlic is essential for building depth of flavor. When baked, it mellows into a sweet, pungent aroma that infuses the entire crust and the salmon beneath. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its potent flavor compared to pre-minced options.
These three ingredients, when combined, create a harmonious blend of salty, savory, and fresh notes, while the cheese provides that coveted crispy texture. It’s a simple formula that yields maximum flavor impact with minimal fuss. This topping is truly what makes the salmon shine, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Irresistible Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Preparing this Baked Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon is remarkably easy, making it an ideal choice for any home cook. While the detailed measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card below, here’s an overview of the simple steps to achieve perfect results:
- Prepare the Salmon: Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps seasonings adhere better and promotes a crispier exterior. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over each fillet, ensuring even coverage.
- Season Generously: Now, it’s time to season the salmon. While simple salt and pepper work wonderfully, I love to use my Homemade BBQ Seasoning and Rub for an extra layer of savory, smoky flavor. Sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the olive-oiled salmon, making sure to distribute them evenly.
- Create the Parmesan Herb Crust: In a small bowl, combine the shredded Parmesan cheese, finely minced fresh parsley, and garlic. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed. This aromatic blend will form the star of your crust.
- Apply the Crust: Generously sprinkle the Parmesan herb mixture over the seasoned salmon fillets. Gently press the mixture onto the salmon to ensure it adheres well. Don’t be shy here; a good coating leads to a fantastic crust!
- Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Carefully place the crusted salmon fillets onto the prepared baking sheet. For the initial baking phase, cover the salmon loosely with another piece of parchment paper. This helps steam the fish gently, ensuring it cooks evenly and remains moist.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven (instructions for temperature and time are in the recipe card) for the initial duration. Then, remove the top layer of parchment paper and continue baking for a few more minutes. This final step allows the Parmesan crust to turn golden brown and deliciously crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in an even more tender and flavorful fillet.
The Secret to Avoiding Dry, Overcooked Salmon
Overcooked salmon is a common culinary disappointment – dry, tough, and lacking its inherent rich flavor. The key to perfectly cooked salmon lies in understanding that fish, much like meat, continues to cook even after it’s removed from the heat source. This phenomenon, known as “carryover cooking,” means you should always take your salmon out of the oven a little before it reaches your desired doneness.
For salmon, the ideal internal temperature is typically between 125°F and 145°F (52°C to 63°C), depending on your preference for medium-rare to well-done. A good rule of thumb is to aim for the lower end of this range when removing it from the oven, as it will continue to rise a few degrees. Visually, perfectly cooked salmon will transition from a deep, translucent pink to a more opaque, flaky pink throughout the fillet. When gently pressed with a fork, the flesh should easily flake apart without being mushy or too firm. It should still have a slight translucency in the very center, indicating it’s juicy and not dried out. Paying close attention to these cues and using a meat thermometer for accuracy will help you achieve wonderfully moist and flavorful salmon every time, preventing the dreaded dry texture.
Boosting the Crunch: Adding Breadcrumbs to Your Salmon Crust
If you’re a fan of an extra-crunchy crust, incorporating breadcrumbs into this recipe is a fantastic way to elevate the texture. Breadcrumbs add another layer of crispness, creating a more substantial and satisfying coating. Here’s how you can adapt the recipe to include them:
Simply add ½ cup of your preferred breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their superior crispiness) to the Parmesan herb mixture. To ensure the breadcrumb coating adheres beautifully and crisps up golden brown, you’ll need an additional step: dredge the salmon fillets in a lightly beaten egg (or an egg wash made with one egg and a tablespoon of milk) first. After dipping in the egg, thoroughly coat each salmon fillet in the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crust fully covers the fish. The egg acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumbs create a robust and even coating. The baking time will remain the same, allowing the breadcrumbs to toast and become incredibly crunchy alongside the melting Parmesan. This variation is particularly good for those who love a hearty, textured crust on their fish.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Salmon
While this Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon is undeniably best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, leftovers can still be delicious with proper storage and reheating techniques. To store, allow the salmon to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly, and it will remain fresh for 3-4 days.
When it comes to reheating seafood, I strongly advise against using the microwave. Microwaves cook rapidly and intensely, which can quickly overcook delicate fish, turning it rubbery and dry. The high heat can also compromise the crispy texture of the Parmesan crust, leaving it soggy.
For the best reheating results, opt for the oven or an air fryer. If using the oven, place the salmon fillets on a rimmed baking sheet and loosely cover them with aluminum foil to prevent further drying. Reheat in a preheated 275°F (135°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F to 130°F (52°C to 54°C). This gentle, low-and-slow approach warms the salmon through without drying it out. For an air fryer, set it to 200°F (93°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes, or until just warmed through. While reheating salmon can never perfectly replicate its fresh-out-of-the-oven glory, these methods will ensure your leftovers are still moist and flavorful.
Freezing Salmon for Future Quick Meals
If you’ve made a larger batch or want to prepare some fillets for future meals, this Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon can be frozen. Once cooked and cooled completely, wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. This double layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn and maintains the quality of the fish. Frozen salmon can be stored for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer the frozen salmon to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Once thawed, follow the reheating instructions mentioned above (preferably oven or air fryer) to gently warm it through. Freezing cooked salmon is a convenient way to always have a quick, healthy meal option on hand, making meal prep a breeze for busy lifestyles.
Delicious Side Dishes to Complement Your Salmon
This Baked Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon is a versatile main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or hearty and comforting, these suggestions will complete your meal:
- Air Fryer Green Beans: Quick, crisp, and vibrantly green, these beans offer a healthy crunch.
- Air Fryer Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus is a classic pairing, bringing a delicate earthiness.
- Air Fryer Mixed Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted veggies adds nutrients and flavor.
- Roasted Ranch Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, with a zesty ranch flavor.
- Southern Macaroni Salad: A creamy, tangy, and satisfying classic for a comforting side.
- Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: A flavorful and hearty pasta salad with savory bacon bits and creamy ranch dressing.
Explore More Salmon & Fish Recipes from Our Kitchen
If you love salmon as much as we do, or are simply looking to expand your seafood repertoire, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here. From quick weeknight solutions to impressive dishes for entertaining, explore these other delicious salmon and fish recipes:
- Pan-Seared Salmon: A quick and easy method for achieving a perfectly crispy skin and moist flesh.
- Baked Parmesan Salmon: A simpler baked version of crusted salmon, focusing on pure Parmesan goodness.
- Salmon Fried Rice: A flavorful and filling meal, perfect for using up leftover salmon or fresh fillets.
- Blackened Salmon: Bold and spicy, this recipe brings a taste of the Louisiana bayou to your plate.
- Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon: Infuse your salmon with a smoky aroma and flavor for an elevated outdoor cooking experience.
- Keto Salmon Patties: A low-carb, high-flavor option perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
- Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict: A gourmet breakfast or brunch dish featuring savory smoked salmon.
- Air Fryer Salmon: Achieve perfectly cooked, flaky salmon with minimal oil and effort using your air fryer.
- Crab Stuffed Salmon: An elegant dish featuring tender salmon filled with a rich, savory crab mixture.
- Maple Glazed Salmon: A sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the salmon.
- Ninja Foodi Grill Salmon: Perfectly grilled salmon indoors with ease.
More Fish Recipes:
- Tuna Poke Bowls: Fresh, vibrant, and customizable bowls featuring raw tuna.
- Blackened Fish Tacos: Spicy, flaky fish served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings.
Baked Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon Recipe
Brandi Crawford
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Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Sheet Pan
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds salmon Sliced into fillets.
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 teaspoons BBQ Seasoning or rub See notes for homemade rub recipe.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon fillets and then sprinkle your chosen seasonings (salt, pepper, BBQ rub) thoroughly on all sides.
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, minced garlic, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until well mixed. Generously sprinkle this mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, gently pressing to adhere.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets on it. Cover the salmon loosely with another piece of parchment paper.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove the top parchment paper and continue to bake for another 5 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Allow the salmon to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.
Notes
- You can create a delicious homemade BBQ rub using: 1 teaspoon brown sweetener or sugar, ¼ teaspoon chili powder, ¼ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. This blend adds a fantastic depth of flavor.
- For an extra crunchy crust, consider adding ½ cup of breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work best for maximum crispiness) to your cheese mixture. For best adhesion, dredge the salmon fillets in a lightly beaten egg (or egg wash) first, then thoroughly coat them in the breadcrumbs and cheese mixture before baking. The baking time will remain the same.
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.