If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both impressively flavorful and incredibly easy to make, this Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mayo Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It perfectly marries creamy mayo, sharp Parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs into an irresistible crust that locks in moisture while delivering a crunchy, cheesy top layer. The salmon comes out tender and flaky, baked to perfection with a zesty hint of lemon and herbs. It’s a dish that feels elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner — truly a triumph for anyone wanting to elevate their seafood game with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key for this recipe, and each one plays a delightful role in the final flavor and texture. From the richness of mayonnaise to the sharp bite of Parmesan and the fresh brightness from lemon juice, every element is essential for creating that perfect crust and juicy salmon beneath.
- Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for tender, juicy fish with crispy skin.
- Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base that holds toppings together and adds moisture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor and helps create the golden crust.
- Breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned): Add crunch and work with the cheese for a balanced texture.
- Lemon juice: Brings brightness and balances the richness perfectly with a slight tang.
- Dried Italian herbs or parsley: Infuse herby warmth and a hint of freshness into the crust.
How to Make Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mayo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper is a smart move to prevent sticking and simplify clean-up later. This prep sets the foundation for perfectly baked, crusty goodness.
Step 2: Ready the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Using paper towels, gently pat the salmon dry — this helps the crust stick better and allows the fish to crisp up wonderfully during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Topping
In a small bowl, thoroughly combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and your choice of dried Italian herbs or parsley. This mixture is where the magic happens, as it forms the luscious, flavorful crust that will bake into golden perfection.
Step 4: Apply the Crust
Evenly spread the Parmesan and mayo mixture over each salmon fillet, making sure to cover all the exposed surface. This generous coating ensures every bite bursts with crispy, cheesy flavor while keeping the salmon moist underneath.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Flaky
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the salmon for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and the salmon flakes easily with a fork, promising a perfect balance of tender fish and crunchy topping.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, serve your baked salmon immediately to enjoy that delightful contrast of textures at its peak. Pair with your favorite sides and get ready for some serious compliments at the dinner table.
How to Serve Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mayo Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh lemon wedges or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds cheerful color and a burst of brightness that complements the rich crust beautifully. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a few capers can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salmon shines alongside vibrant roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Light, citrusy quinoa or herbed rice make fantastic companions, balancing the richness without overpowering the delicate fish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, serve the salmon on a bed of wilted spinach or creamy polenta. Alternatively, arranging the fillets over a colorful medley of grilled vegetables creates a beautiful plate that’s as inviting to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, but it’s best to enjoy the crusty texture as soon as possible since it softens over time.
Freezing
Freezing cooked salmon with the Parmesan crust is not ideal, as the texture of the crust may change. However, you can freeze uncooked salmon fillets and prepare the topping fresh when you’re ready to bake them.
Reheating
To bring back some crispiness, reheat leftovers in a hot oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the texture of that mouthwatering Parmesan crust.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon works beautifully here, you can try this Parmesan mayo crust on cod, halibut, or even trout. Just adjust baking times based on the thickness of your fillets.
Is mayonnaise necessary for the crust?
Mayonnaise plays a key role in binding the crust ingredients while keeping the salmon moist during baking. If you prefer, Greek yogurt or a flavorful aioli can be a substitute, but mayo offers the best balance of creaminess and moisture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for extra texture without gluten.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
Can I prepare the topping in advance?
You can mix the mayonnaise, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and herbs ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just give it a quick stir before applying to ensure it’s evenly combined.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly rewarding about serving a dish like this Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mayo Recipe — it feels special, yet it’s so approachable to make. The crispy Parmesan crust pairs wonderfully with the rich, tender salmon, bringing together flavors and textures that are truly comforting. I encourage you to try it out soon; it’s a delicious way to enjoy salmon, whether for a casual weeknight or impressing guests. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites too!
Print
Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mayo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Mayo is an easy and flavorful dish featuring tender salmon fillets topped with a crispy, cheesy breadcrumb mixture. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it offers a delightful balance of creamy mayonnaise, tangy lemon juice, and aromatic Italian herbs, making it an impressive yet simple meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 2 (6 oz) salmon fillets
Crust Topping
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prep Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet and gently pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the topping sticks well.
- Make Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, and dried Italian herbs or parsley, stirring until well blended to form a flavorful crust topping.
- Apply Topping: Evenly spread the mayonnaise and Parmesan mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, covering the surface completely.
- Bake Salmon: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the salmon flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with your favorite sides for a delicious and wholesome meal.
Notes
- You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preference.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried Italian herbs, using about 1 tablespoon finely chopped.
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
- This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a fresh salad.
