Description
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon features buttery, flaky salmon fillets topped with a golden, crunchy crust made from panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve for special occasions, combining rich flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Salmon and Coating
- 4 (6-7 oz each) skinless salmon fillets
- 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 3/4 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 1/2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste (about 3/4 tsp recommended)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (about 1/2 tsp recommended)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 large egg
- 4 lemon slices (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Rack: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray an oven-safe wire cooling rack with non-stick cooking spray and place it over a rimmed 18 by 13-inch baking sheet to catch drips and allow air circulation during baking.
- Mix Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, finely shredded parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over this mixture and toss well to evenly coat the crumbs and cheese, helping the crust crisp up nicely.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish, beat the large egg thoroughly until the yolk and white are fully blended. This will act as the binding agent for the crust.
- Coat Salmon: Working with one salmon fillet at a time, dredge each side of the fillet in the beaten egg, then press and coat both sides with the panko mixture. For extra coverage, sprinkle additional panko mixture over the top of each fillet and gently press it down to create an even crust.
- Arrange on Rack: Place the coated salmon fillets on the prepared wire rack on the baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining fillets, ensuring each is well coated and spaced apart to allow even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through and the crust is golden brown. Bake time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. If the crust browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil. If it needs more browning, move the rack closer to the broiler for a brief time at the end.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon slices to spritz over the salmon for added brightness and flavor.
Notes
- If the breading starts to brown too quickly during baking, tent the fillets loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- If the crust is not browning enough by the end of the baking time, you can briefly place the salmon under the broiler to achieve a golden crisp finish; watch closely to avoid burning.
- Use a wire cooling rack on a baking sheet to allow air circulation beneath the salmon for a crispier crust and less sogginess.
- Adjust salt and pepper amounts to your taste preferences but keep in mind the parmesan adds saltiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
