Name: Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried or fresh parsley; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or extra virgin olive oil); 1 (1-pound) salmon fillet, skin on; Lemon wedges, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 37 reviews

If you love a dish that feels both elegant and totally approachable, this Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, flaky salmon topped with a crisp, golden Parmesan-panko crust bursting with garlicky, buttery flavors. It’s a perfect blend of textures and tastes, ready in under half an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the fuss. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s become an absolute favorite for so many home cooks who want a quick yet sophisticated seafood dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large, bright orange salmon fillet with shiny, smooth skin lies flat on crumpled white parchment paper at the center of the image. To the left, there is a bunch of fresh green parsley and a white bowl holding several lemon slices, along with another small white bowl filled with melted yellow butter. To the right of the salmon, five small bowls contain different ingredients: the top bowl has a coarse, beige powder; below it, a smaller bowl holds a light brown powder; next is a white bowl with salt and black pepper; and a black bowl at the bottom contains light beige shredded cheese. All items rest on a white marbled surface, creating a clean, fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but chosen thoughtfully to create that irresistible combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory notes on top of perfectly cooked salmon. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s adding crunch, seasoning, depth, or moisture to the dish.

¼ cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides a light, airy crunch that turns golden and crispy in the oven.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory punch that enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon dried or fresh parsley: Brings fresh herbal brightness to balance the richness.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Elevates all the ingredients and seasons the salmon perfectly.
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and aromatic complexity.
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the crust, melting into a golden, umami-packed topping.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or extra virgin olive oil): Adds richness and helps everything bind while enhancing flavor.
1 (1-pound) salmon fillet: The tender, flaky base that shines beneath the crust.
Lemon wedges, for serving: Provide a bright, acidic contrast to cut through the richness.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and prepare your baking sheet

Start by heating your oven to 400°F, which is the perfect temperature to cook the salmon through while crisping the crust beautifully. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze and prevent sticking, ensuring your crust stays intact.

Step 2: Make the Parmesan crust mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, parsley, salt, black pepper, and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the melted butter until everything binds together into an even, crumbly mixture. This blend is what will give your crust that amazing golden crunch with bursts of cheesy flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the salmon

Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the lined sheet and pat it dry with a paper towel. Removing moisture helps the crust stick and crisp up properly. Brush the top of the salmon with the remaining tablespoon of butter for extra richness and flavor.

Step 4: Apply the crust and bake

Sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture evenly over the salmon, gently pressing it down to adhere. Then, finish with a final dusting of the remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork. This is where the magic happens: a perfectly crisp topping meets flaky, juicy salmon underneath.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

A long, bright red salmon fillet lies flat on a sheet of white parchment paper placed on a metal baking tray. The salmon is covered with a thick, uneven layer of light golden-brown breadcrumbs mixed with small green herb bits and white grated cheese, giving a textured, crumbly look. The tray sits on a white marbled surface with a few scattered crumbs outside the fillet area. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple lemon wedges are the perfect garnish here, adding a burst of fresh acidity that complements the rich, cheesy crust beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few capers also make lovely, colorful accents that brighten each bite.

Side Dishes

This Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think light and fresh like a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus, or go for comforting mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice to soak up every little bit of flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, slice the salmon into individual portions and arrange them on a large platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs scattered around. You might even serve it atop a bed of sautéed spinach or a colorful quinoa salad to turn this dish into an impressive centerpiece for dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover salmon should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days while maintaining good flavor and texture, making it great for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

While fresh salmon shines brightest, you can freeze cooked Parmesan Crusted Salmon in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. To avoid sogginess, freeze quickly and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a low oven (around 300°F) to help preserve the crispness of the crust, or carefully use a toaster oven if you have one. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the crust soggy and the fish dry.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe?

Absolutely! While salmon’s rich flavor pairs perfectly with the Parmesan crust, similar firm fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia can work well, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use olive oil instead of butter. The texture and flavor will be a little different but still delicious.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F. The crust should be golden and crisp. Be careful not to overcook to keep it moist.

Can I prepare the crust mixture ahead of time?

Definitely. You can mix and store the Parmesan crust mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Just add the melted butter right before applying it to the salmon for best results.

What should I serve with this Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe for a light meal?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a light lemony quinoa salad for a perfectly balanced, light dinner that feels fresh and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe is a total winner because it brings together simple ingredients into a dish that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of elegance. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a recipe that’s easy to love and even easier to make. So go on, try it out and enjoy that wonderful golden crust and flaky salmon magic in your own kitchen soon!

Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Salmon Recipe