Quick Baked Fish Dinner

This garlic butter salmon with a parmesan panko topping is the answer to getting an impressive dinner on the table without fuss. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and one baking dish, you will have juicy salmon crowned with a crisp buttery crust. There is no need for fancy techniques or special equipment. This meal is all about big flavors and easy steps, making it perfect for weeknights and dinner parties alike.

I first tried this recipe on a busy Wednesday when dinner needed to impress but my energy was low. Everyone at the table raved about it and now it has become my standby for both easy family dinners and quick get-togethers with friends.

Ingredients

• Real unsalted butter: for unbeatable flavor and the essential base of the topping. Always choose high quality butter for richness
• Fresh garlic: for that bold savory punch. Grate or mince it yourself right before cooking to unlock the most aroma and taste
• Panko breadcrumbs: for extra crispiness. Look for the lightest variety you can find as it gives better crunch than regular
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: for salty nutty flavor that melts beautifully. Choose a wedge and grate at home for best results
• Fresh parsley: for brightness and color contrast. Chop just before adding to lock in the vibrant taste
• Salmon fillets: your star ingredient. Go for center-cut pieces of even thickness to ensure every portion cooks evenly. Thaw completely if frozen
• Kosher salt: helps everything shine without being too sharp
• Fresh lemon wedges: for finishing plus a zesty aroma that lifts each bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Started:

Turn the oven to 425 degrees F. Line a large baking dish or sheet pan so each salmon fillet has enough space and will roast rather than steam

Butter Magic:

Melt your butter in a small saucepan just until liquid then stir in freshly grated garlic. Pour half the mixture into a separate bowl so you have some for brushing over the fish and some to mix with the topping

Make It Crispy:

To the bowl with half the garlic butter add panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan. Stir with a fork until the parmesan disappears and the mix looks like damp sand which gives perfect crispness

Build Those Fillets:

Pat every piece of salmon very dry with a paper towel so the butter and topping stick well. Season lightly with kosher salt. Use a pastry brush or spoon to coat the tops with reserved garlic butter

Crown With Crunch:

Pile the parmesan panko mixture high on top pressing gently so it sticks but is not packed too tightly. This helps it brown evenly and stay crisp

Into The Oven:

Bake for twelve to sixteen minutes until the topping is golden and the salmon reaches 135 degrees F inside for medium doneness. Sprinkle on chopped parsley and finish with lemon wedges before serving

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My favorite part is always the buttery crumbs that land around the salmon. I once caught my youngest picking them off the pan before dinner even started. Make extra if you are feeding a crew because everyone wants a little more of that golden topping.

Storage Tips

Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results reheat in a low oven just until warmed through so the crumbs stay crisp. Leftovers are also delicious served cold flaked over leafy salads or stirred into cooked pasta.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap parsley with fresh dill or chives if you like a different herb flavor. Cod or halibut fillets work just as well in place of salmon but watch the baking time as thinner fish will cook more quickly. For gluten free needs use certified gluten free panko or crushed rice crackers.

Serving Suggestions

This salmon matches perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus. Pair it with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a lighter meal. Guests always appreciate some crusty bread on the table to mop up the leftover garlic butter on their plates.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Baked fish dishes have been a beloved staple in home kitchens for generations thanks to their nourishing simplicity and adaptability. The parmesan breadcrumb crust borrows from Italian and American influences where cheese and crisp toppings elevate humble fish fillets into something festive. A meal like this brings everyone to the table with anticipation.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the ideal temperature for cooking salmon?

Cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 135°F ensures tender, medium doneness where the fish flakes easily but remains moist.

→ Why is it important to pat the salmon dry before cooking?

Drying the salmon removes excess moisture, helping the breadcrumb topping stick firmly and crisp up during baking.

→ Can skin-on salmon be used for this dish?

Yes, placing skin-side down keeps the fillets moist while cooking and adds texture when crisped.

→ How should breadcrumbs be applied to prevent falling off?

Press the breadcrumb mixture lightly onto the salmon so it adheres well without compressing it too much, preserving crispiness.

→ What sides pair well with baked salmon topped with garlic butter crumbs?

Roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, a bright green salad, or crusty bread complement the rich flavors and textures nicely.