Introduction

This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with a crispy, cheesy crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it delivers a satisfying crunch and savory taste with minimal effort.

A single piece of baked fish fillet lies in the center of a white plate, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust mixed with finely chopped green herbs scattered throughout. The fish layer beneath has a light pinkish tone visible at the edges. Two lemon wedges, pale yellow with a slightly translucent texture, sit near the top left corner of the plate. To the right of the plate, a silver fork rests on a light gray cloth napkin, all placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 pieces wild caught or farm raised salmon
2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1-2 teaspoons fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Olive oil to coat fish
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped fresh parsley, and salt.
Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Lightly sear the salmon fillets skin-side down for 2-3 minutes until crispy. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Spread the butter on top of each salmon fillet, then press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the buttered side to create a crust.
Step 5: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let rest for a minute before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For an extra crispy crust, broil the salmon for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Swap out fresh parsley for dill or basil to change the herb flavor.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to preserve the crust texture as much as possible.

How to Serve

A single piece of baked fish with a crunchy, golden-brown topping speckled with green herbs lies in the center of a white plate. The fish has a slightly rough texture from the topping and a pale pinkish-white base beneath. Two lemon wedges rest near the top and left edges of the plate, bright yellow with translucent juicy segments. A silver fork with an ornate handle is placed near the bottom right of the plate, partially resting on a light gray cloth napkin. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure the crust sticks well and the fish cooks evenly.

What sides go well with Parmesan Crusted Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 117 reviews

This Parmesan Crusted Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets coated with a crispy, flavorful parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Enhanced with garlic, fresh parsley, and a buttery finish, this dish is pan-seared to golden perfection, combining a delicious crunch with the rich taste of salmon. It’s a quick and elegant meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 3 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

3 pieces wild caught or farm raised salmon fillets

Crust

2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1–2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Olive oil, as needed to coat fish
Salt and pepper, to taste for seasoning fish

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each fillet with salt and pepper to taste to enhance their natural flavors.
Make the Parmesan Crust: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, fresh parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix well to create an even crust mixture.
Coat the Salmon: Lightly brush the top of each salmon fillet with olive oil, then evenly press the parmesan breadcrumb mixture onto the oiled side, ensuring a good crust layer.
Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and allow it to melt and foam, coating the pan evenly to prevent sticking.
Cook the Salmon: Carefully place the crusted side of the salmon fillets down onto the hot pan. Cook without moving for about 3-4 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Flip and Finish Cooking: Gently flip the fillets using a spatula, then cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the salmon reaches your preferred doneness (internal temperature of 125°F to 135°F for medium-rare to medium).
Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the salmon to serving plates. Optionally garnish with additional chopped parsley or lemon wedges. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Use fresh parsley for the best herb flavor, but dried can be substituted if necessary at 1/3 the quantity.
For a crispier crust, you can broil the crusted side for 1-2 minutes after pan-searing, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain even cooking and crust crispiness.
Wild caught salmon tends to have a richer flavor, but farm raised is a fine alternative.
Ensure the salmon is dry before seasoning and crusting to help the crust adhere properly.

Keywords: Parmesan Crusted Salmon, Salmon Recipe, Crispy Salmon, Pan Seared Salmon, Quick Salmon Dinner