If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful, and slightly fancy way to make salmon, this Parmesan Crusted Salmon is it! It’s juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with cheesy, garlicky goodness. Best part? You only need a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes of cooking time.
This is the perfect oven baked salmon recipe for busy weeknights, but it’s also impressive enough for a dinner party. Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re not convinced yet, here’s why you need this Parmesan Crusted Salmon recipe in your life:
- That crispy topping? Next level. The combo of parmesan, panko, and various seasoning creates the perfect golden-brown crust.
- It’s a foolproof way to cook salmon. The Dijon mustard helps everything stick, and the high heat locks in moisture.
- Super quick & easy. This simple salmon recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Cost Per Serving
Salmon can be pricey, but making it at home is way more affordable than ordering it at a restaurant. Here’s a rough breakdown of the cost:
- Salmon (2 lbs): $16
- Panko breadcrumbs: $1
- Parmesan cheese: $1.50
- Dijon mustard: $0.50
- Seasonings: $1
Total Cost: ~ $20
Cost Per Serving: $3.33
That’s way cheaper than ordering it at a restaurant, and you can make it even more budget-friendly by stretching it to six servings and pairing it with hearty sides.
With a little planning, this meal can cost under $5 per serving! Want more tips? Check out my guide on how to save money grocery shopping for easy ways to cut costs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about keeping it simple while packing in the flavor. Here’s what you need:
For the Salmon:
- Salmon fillet – Use skin-on or skinless, whichever you prefer.
- Lemon pepper, paprika, and salt – A simple but flavorful seasoning blend.
For the Parmesan Crust:
- Panko breadcrumbs – Creates the perfect crispy texture.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs for extra depth.
- Salt, lemon pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper – Layers of seasoning for a well-balanced taste.
- Minced garlic – Because everything is better with garlic!
For the Base Layer:
- Dijon mustard – Helps the crust stick while adding a tangy kick. If you don’t like the taste of Dijon mustard, you can just use oil as the binder.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray or foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels—this helps the seasonings stick.
- Season the salmon with lemon pepper, paprika, and salt.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Crust
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, paprika, salt, and minced garlic.
Step 3: Coat the Salmon
- Place the seasoned salmon on the baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the top.
- Press the parmesan-panko mixture onto the mustard-coated salmon, gently pressing so it sticks.
- Drizzle on a little olive oil to get that perfectly crispy top.
Step 4: Bake & Broil
- Bake at 400°F for 8 minutes.
- Switch the oven to broil and cook for 2 more minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Salmon
- Use fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry.
- Broiling is key! It crisps up the crust and gives you that golden-brown finish.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy.
Serving Suggestions
This oven baked salmon goes with just about anything, but here are some of my go-to pairings:
- Roasted Veggies – Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
- Simple Side Salad – A fresh lemony arugula or spinach salad cuts through the richness.
- Rice or Quinoa – A great base to soak up all the flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes – Because who doesn’t love a little extra comfort?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives the best crunch. Regular breadcrumbs will work but might be softer.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
It should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should be 125-130°F for medium or 145°F for well-done.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the parmesan crust and coat the salmon in advance, but bake it fresh for the best texture.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden and flaky.
Bring This Parmesan Crusted Salmon to Your Dinner Table
This Parmesan Crusted Salmon is crispy, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, it’s a meal that always impresses.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Drop a comment below or tag me on social media—I’d love to see your version.
