Cheesy Parmesan Crusted Salmon Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Parmesan Crusted Salmon Bake is a delicious and easy way to enjoy salmon with a flavorful, crispy topping. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, fresh parsley, and a crunchy parmesan-panko crust makes this dish a wonderful choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb salmon fillet
• 1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella, Mexican, cheddar, gouda, etc.)
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and pressed
• 2-3 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Small bunch of flat leaf Italian parsley (about 1/4 cup chopped)
• 1/2 cup Panko crumbs
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 Tbsp unsalted melted butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Make the Parmesan Panko crust by combining 1/2 cup Panko crumbs, 1/4 to 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon melted butter in a bowl. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Thoroughly wash the parsley under running water, dry with a paper towel, remove stems, and finely chop the leaves. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Rinse the salmon fillet under running water and pat dry with a paper towel. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
4. Step 4: In a mixing bowl, stir together the mustard powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
5. Step 5: Add the spices, chopped parsley, pressed garlic, mayonnaise, and half of the grated cheese to the salmon cubes. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Step 6: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the baking rack in the middle.
7. Step 7: Transfer the salmon mixture to an ovenproof baking dish (approximately 9” x 6”) and press it down to flatten evenly.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top, then evenly distribute the prepared Parmesan Panko crust over the cheese.
9. Step 9: Bake uncovered for 5-7 minutes until the breadcrumbs start turning golden.
10. Step 10: Loosely cover the dish with foil and continue baking for another 9-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through in the center.
11. Step 11: Remove from the oven and serve hot with steamed vegetables or your preferred side dish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the salmon mixture before baking.
• Try using different cheese blends like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda to customize the taste.
• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
• Adding chopped fresh dill or chives instead of parsley can give a different herbal note.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to retain the crunchy topping and avoid drying out the salmon.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen salmon fillets. Make sure to fully defrost and pat the salmon dry before preparing the dish for best results.

What can I serve with this salmon bake?

This salmon pairs beautifully with steamed or roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or a side of rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Cheesy Parmesan Crusted Salmon Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 124 reviews

A deliciously rich and savory Cheesy Parmesan Crusted Salmon Bake featuring tender salmon cubes mixed with garlic, spices, mayonnaise, and cheese, topped with a buttery Parmesan Panko crust and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for an easy gourmet meal paired with steamed vegetables or your favorite sides.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Total Time: 31 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salmon Mixture

• 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and pressed
• 2–3 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup flat leaf Italian parsley, finely chopped
• 1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella, Mexican, cheddar, gouda, etc.), divided

Parmesan Panko Crust

• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Make the Parmesan Panko Crust: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 to 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated and set aside.
2. Prepare the Parsley: Rinse the flat leaf Italian parsley thoroughly under running water. Use a paper towel to dry the leaves completely. Remove stems and finely chop the leaves. Set aside.
3. Prep the Salmon: Rinse the salmon fillet under running water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Cut the salmon into 1-inch cubes.
4. Mix Spices and Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine mustard powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add these spices, the pressed garlic, chopped parsley, mayonnaise, and half of the grated cheese to the salmon cubes. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
5. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C) with the baking rack positioned in the middle of the oven.
6. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the salmon mixture into an ovenproof baking dish (approximately 9’’x6’’). Flatten the mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese evenly on top, followed by the prepared Parmesan Panko breadcrumb crust.
7. Bake the Salmon: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes until the breadcrumbs start turning golden.
8. Finish Baking Covered: Loosely cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 9-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through in the center and the topping is golden brown.
9. Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with steamed vegetables or a side dish of your choice for a delicious, hearty meal.

Notes

• Use fresh salmon for best flavor and texture.
• You may substitute different cheeses based on preference; a mix works well for flavor complexity.
• Ensure the salmon pieces are cut evenly to promote uniform cooking.
• Do not overbake to keep the salmon moist and tender.
• This dish pairs beautifully with steamed greens, rice, or roasted vegetables.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently to preserve moisture.

Keywords: salmon bake, parmesan crust, cheesy salmon, baked salmon, panko crust, easy dinner recipe