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This buttery garlic salmon completely changed how I handle weeknight meals. In about 20 minutes, juicy salmon gets topped with crunchy, garlicky crumbs and gooey parmesan. I first whipped it up for quick family dinners, but now it's what I make when guests drop by—they all think I slaved away for hours.
What Makes This So Popular
The wow factor happens when buttery garlic combines with parmesan and those crunchy breadcrumbs over perfectly baked salmon. Basic ingredients transform into something you'd expect at an upscale restaurant. You'll only need minutes to clean up since everything cooks on a single tray. I'm always drawn to dishes that look fancy but don't require much work.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Quality Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter—don't go for alternatives; it's what gives the dish its rich taste.
- Aromatic Elements: 3 cloves of garlic, freshly grated, plus a bunch of vibrant parsley.
- Textural Component: Fluffy panko breadcrumbs and newly grated parmesan for that irresistible crispy layer.
- Main Attraction: 4 premium salmon pieces, around 6 ounces each—just make sure they're fully defrosted if using frozen.
- Finishing Elements: Quality kosher salt and fresh lemon pieces to brighten everything up.
Cooking Instructions
- Preparation Time
- Heat your oven to 425°F, and find your largest baking tray—your salmon needs space around each piece.
- Create Your Sauce
- Warm the butter completely, add your freshly minced garlic, then divide between two separate containers—one for brushing fish, one for the topping.
- Build The Topping
- Mix your panko and parmesan into one portion of the garlic butter until everything sticks together.
- Prepare The Fish
- Thoroughly dry your salmon with paper towels, add salt, coat with garlic butter, then press on plenty of that breadcrumb mixture.
- Cooking Process
- Bake for 12-16 minutes until they reach 135°F internally. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley and adding lemon pieces.
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Pro Tips
Try to pick salmon pieces that match in thickness—they'll finish cooking at the same time. Don't be shy when adding the crumb topping; you want it to stay put when people take a bite. I can't cook without my meat thermometer to hit 135°F exactly. Always take time to dry those fillets thoroughly—it helps seasoning stick and gives you better color.
Perfect Pairings
This dish works with so many sides. Sometimes I throw veggies on the same pan; other times I serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes. A simple green salad makes the meal feel balanced. And grab some good bread to mop up all that tasty garlic butter left on your plate—it's too good to waste.
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra portions in a sealed container—they'll keep in your fridge for three days. Reheat slowly in a 300°F oven or use short microwave bursts—just don't cook it too long. I often break up cold leftovers for lunch salads or toss them into pasta—it makes regular meals feel extra special.
Try These Variations
The same approach works great with other fish like cod or halibut. Sometimes I swap out parsley for fresh dill or mix in some chives. Want some kick? Toss red pepper flakes into your breadcrumbs. Got friends who can't eat gluten? Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead—they turn out just as good.
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Customize It
Get creative with your flavors—try adding paprika to your crumbs or drizzling honey across the fish before it goes in the oven. Experiment with cheeses—maybe asiago or gruyere instead. That's what makes cooking fun—putting your own stamp on each dish. My sister loves adding lemon zest to her crumb mix, while my neighbor goes heavy on the garlic—every version turns out amazing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the best temperature for salmon?
Cook to 135°F for medium. Check the center with a meat thermometer. Cooking time depends on the fillet’s thickness.
- → Why dry the salmon first?
Patting the salmon dry makes the breadcrumbs stick better and bake crispier.
- → Is it okay to use salmon with skin?
Absolutely! Lay it with the skin on the bottom. The skin keeps it moist while baking.
- → How do I get breadcrumbs to stay on?
Press lightly so they cling as it bakes. Pushing too hard will keep it from staying crisp.
- → What if crumbs fall off?
Scoop them back onto the fish before baking. The butter melts and holds everything together.
Conclusion
Easy-to-make salmon featuring a crunchy Parmesan-panko crust. Perfect solution for a tasty meal in no time.