This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a simple yet fancy dish that’s sure to impress. It’s flaky and tender salmon topped with a crispy, cheesy crust that makes every bite delicious!
I love how quick it is to make! Just sprinkle on the cheese, bake, and you’ll have a healthy meal ready in no time. Perfect for busy nights or a lovely dinner with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are fantastic for this dish as they’re rich and flavorful. If you can’t find salmon, trout is a great alternative—it has a similar texture and taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture might not be as light. You could also use crushed crackers or cornflakes for a different twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a wonderful cheesy flavor. For those who need dairy-free options, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is perfect for a side, but green beans or broccoli can substitute if you want something different.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Crispy Crust?
The secret to the crispy crust lies in the preparation of your breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to combine the panko with melted butter and oil for optimal crunch. Here’s how:
- Mix panko, Parmesan, garlic, herbs, and melted butter together. The butter helps the crumbs toast up crisply.
- Press the mixture firmly onto the salmon. This creates a better bond, preventing the crust from falling off during baking.
Also, keep an eye on your salmon as it bakes. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil to ensure the fish cooks through without burning the topping!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried parsley, oregano, and thyme)
- Fresh thyme or parsley leaves, for garnish
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
For the Asparagus (optional side):
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
- 2 tablespoons butter (for asparagus sauce)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for asparagus sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. Including the asparagus (if desired), you should budget around 30 minutes in total. You’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you put your salmon in.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with some paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and black pepper for flavor.
3. Make the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried Italian herbs. Stir until everything is well combined, and the breadcrumbs are coated with butter.
4. Coat the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on a lined or greased baking sheet, skin side down. Carefully press the cheesy breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet to create an even coating. Don’t be shy with the layer!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12–15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown. Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your fillets.
6. Prepare the Asparagus Sauce:
While the salmon is baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and gently warm it, stirring occasionally for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook the Asparagus:
Trim the tough ends from the asparagus and steam or blanch until it’s crisp-tender, around 3-4 minutes. Once done, drain the asparagus and prepare for serving.
8. Assemble Your Dish:
To serve, place a generous bed of asparagus on each plate. Drizzle some warm butter cream sauce over the asparagus. Gently lay a beautifully baked Parmesan crusted salmon fillet on top.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with fresh thyme or parsley leaves and add lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy your Parmesan Crusted Salmon with all its deliciousness!
This dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the delightful textures of crispy crust and tender salmon paired with fresh asparagus!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to completely thaw the salmon first. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture might be less crunchy. You can also use crushed crackers or even cornflakes for a unique twist on the topping!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the breadcrumb topping and apply it to the salmon fillets a few hours in advance. Store the prepared salmon in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This helps in keeping the crust fresh and crispy when baked!