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Close-up of baked salmon showing the flaky texture and the dense uneven parmesan breadcrumb crust with light char marks.

Parmesan Crusted Baked Salmon: The Secret to a Perfectly Crispy, Flaky Fillet

This Parmesan Crusted Baked Salmon features a thick, flaky fillet topped with a dense, uneven layer of golden-brown melted parmesan and toasted breadcrumbs for the ultimate 20-minute gourmet weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salmon and Crust
  • 1.5 lbs Salmon Fillet Center-cut, skin-on (680g)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated (50g)
  • 1/4 cup Fine Breadcrumbs (30g)
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise Or Dijon mustard (30g)
  • 1 tsp Dried Herbs Oregano and Basil (2g)
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley Chopped for garnish (5g)

Equipment

  • 1 Rimmed Baking Sheet Heavy-duty to prevent warping.
  • 1 Digital Meat Thermometer To ensure perfect flakiness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels and place on a white ceramic plate or lined baking sheet.
  2. In a small bowl, combine grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, dried herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil until it reaches a sandy consistency.
Baking
  1. Spread a thin layer of mayo over the salmon, then press the parmesan mixture into it, creating an uneven, rustic surface.
  2. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Switch to broil for the last 2 minutes until the crust shows light char marks and a golden-brown color.

Notes

Use Atlantic salmon for the best oily sheen and moisture.
Always rest the fish for 3 minutes before serving to ensure it stays flaky.