Golden Parmesan Crusted Salmon with a Silky Lemon Cream Sauce

If you love salmon that turns out perfectly flaky on the inside and golden on the outside, this Parmesan crusted salmon is about to become one of your favorite dinners. I make this recipe whenever I want something that feels special but still stays easy enough for a busy day. The Parmesan crust bakes into a crisp, savory layer, while the salmon stays tender and juicy underneath — no dry fish here.

What truly sets this dish apart is the lemon cream sauce. It adds just the right amount of brightness and creaminess without overpowering the salmon. Everything comes together in the oven, and the sauce finishes on the stove in minutes, so you don’t need complicated steps or fancy tools.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make Parmesan crusted salmon at home, share simple tips for getting the crust just right, and help you avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe delivers big flavor with very little effort.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Salmon

This Parmesan crusted salmon checks all the boxes for an easy, dependable dinner that still feels a little special. I love how the crust turns beautifully golden in the oven while the salmon stays moist and flaky inside. You get rich, savory flavor without needing a long ingredient list or complicated techniques.

This recipe works perfectly for busy weeknights, but it also looks impressive enough to serve when guests come over. The lemon cream sauce adds a fresh, bright finish that balances the richness of the Parmesan crust instead of weighing it down.

Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

• The oven does most of the work for you
• The Parmesan crust adds crunch and flavor without frying
• The lemon cream sauce tastes luxurious but comes together fast
• The recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• You get consistent results every single time

If you enjoy crusted salmon recipes that feel comforting, flavorful, and stress-free, this one delivers every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Parmesan Crusted Salmon

I love this recipe because it uses simple, familiar ingredients that come together in the best way. Each one plays an important role, so you get big flavor without overcomplicating anything.

For the Parmesan Crusted Salmon

• Salmon fillets – fresh, skin-on or skinless both work well
• Grated Parmesan cheese – use freshly grated for the best crust
• Breadcrumbs or panko – adds light crunch to the crust
• Garlic – brings warm, savory flavor
• Olive oil or melted butter – helps the crust turn golden
• Salt and black pepper – to season everything just right

For the Lemon Cream Sauce

• Heavy cream – creates a smooth, rich base
• Fresh lemon juice – adds brightness and balance
• Lemon zest – boosts fresh citrus flavor
• Butter – makes the sauce silky
• Garlic – adds depth without overpowering

This combination creates a perfectly balanced Parmesan crusted salmon with a creamy lemon sauce that tastes fresh, comforting, and satisfying.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Salmon (Step-by-Step)

This is a simple, foolproof method to make Parmesan crusted salmon at home. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and impressive. Let’s get started!

Step 1 – Prep the Salmon

Before anything, make sure your salmon fillets are thawed if frozen. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This is key to getting a crispy crust! Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Season each fillet with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Tip: The skin can be left on or removed based on your preference. If you keep the skin, it will add extra flavor and help hold the fillet together.

Step 2 – Make the Parmesan Crust

In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs or panko, and minced garlic. Then, slowly add in olive oil or melted butter until the mixture becomes slightly crumbly. This mixture should hold together when pressed.

Spread this crust mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet, pressing down gently to make sure it sticks. Don’t worry if it looks a little heaping – that’s how you get that crunchy crust!

Step 3 – Bake the Salmon

Now, it’s time to bake the salmon! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon on the middle rack and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The crust should be golden and crispy, and the salmon should be cooked through but still tender.

Tip: If you like your crust extra crispy, broil the fillets for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 4 – Make the Lemon Cream Sauce

While the salmon is baking, it’s time to make the lemon cream sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, and stir occasionally. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat and add fresh lemon juice and zest.

Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If you want the sauce creamier, feel free to add more butter or cream. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

And there you have it! Your Parmesan crusted salmon is now perfectly golden, and the creamy lemon sauce is ready to pour over the top.

Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon Every Time

These tips will ensure your Parmesan crusted salmon turns out juicy, crispy, and full of flavor every time you make it!

1. Don’t Overbake

Salmon continues to cook even after it’s out of the oven, so it’s important not to overbake it. Aim for a flaky but moist texture. Test by gently flaking the salmon with a fork—if it separates easily but is still a little moist inside, you’re good to go!

2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

Freshly grated Parmesan produces a better, more flavorful crust. Pre-grated Parmesan often has added preservatives and doesn’t melt as well, so it won’t form that golden, crispy texture.

3. Rest the Salmon Before Serving

After baking, let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices inside the fillet, making it even more tender and juicy.

4. Add Extra Lemon Zest to the Sauce

For an even brighter flavor, add a bit of extra lemon zest to the cream sauce just before serving. It’ll elevate the citrus flavor and give your sauce a fresh pop!

5. Try Broiling for Extra Crispiness

If you want your Parmesan crust to be extra crispy, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!

What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Salmon

Pairing the Parmesan crusted salmon with the right sides can turn this dish into a complete, satisfying meal. Here are some side dishes that work perfectly with the salmon:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes

These crispy, buttery potatoes are the perfect complement to the rich, creamy salmon. Toss with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary before roasting for maximum flavor.

2. Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans

Lightly steamed veggies add a fresh, healthy contrast to the richness of the salmon. For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

3. Simple Arugula Salad

A crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess of the salmon, providing a refreshing balance. Add some cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan for extra flair!

4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For a heartier side, you can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes. They’ll soak up the lemon cream sauce beautifully, making every bite decadent.

FAQs

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• Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Recipe

Recipe

Yield: 4 salmon fillets

Parmesan Crusted Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

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This Parmesan crusted salmon bakes until golden and flaky, then gets finished with a silky lemon cream sauce. It’s an easy, elegant dinner that comes together fast with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Parmesan Crusted Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs or panko
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Lemon Cream Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil until crumbly.
4. Press the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
5. Bake the salmon for 12–15 minutes, until it flakes easily with a fork and the crust turns golden.
6. While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer for 3–4 minutes.
8. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes.
10. Spoon the lemon cream sauce over the Parmesan crusted salmon and serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the crispiest crust.

Pat the salmon dry to prevent sogginess.

Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you want extra crunch.

Reheat leftovers gently to avoid drying out the salmon.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 480Total Fat: 34gCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 38g

Nutrition values are estimated and may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. This information is provided as a general guide only.

This Parmesan crusted salmon with lemon cream sauce proves that simple ingredients can create an elegant, comforting meal without extra effort. The golden crust adds just the right amount of crunch, while the salmon stays tender and juicy inside. When you finish it with that smooth, bright lemon cream sauce, every bite feels balanced and satisfying.

I love this recipe because it works for busy weeknights, but it also feels special enough for guests. You don’t need advanced skills or fancy tools — just follow the steps, trust the process, and let the oven do most of the work.

If you’re looking for a reliable crusted salmon recipe that delivers flavor every single time, this one belongs in your rotation. Save it, share it, and enjoy a dinner that always feels like a win.