Panko Crusted Salmon

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Panko Crusted Salmon is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that has become a family favorite in our home, often gracing our table on busy weeknights and during cozy family gatherings. The crunchy panko topping gives the salmon a delightful texture that makes each bite irresistible.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple the ingredients are. You probably have many of them in your kitchen right now! Plus, it’s elegant enough to impress your guests while being approachable enough for a casual dinner at home. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for those busy evenings when you need something tasty fast.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of herbs and spices creates a vibrant taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the crispy topping, making it an excellent choice for dinner.
• Healthy option: Packed with nutrients from salmon, this dish supports a healthy lifestyle.
• Versatile serving suggestions: Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Panko Crusted Salmon recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup panko
• 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

For the Salmon

• (4) 4-6oz salmon fillets (1 inch thick)

Serving Suggestion

• Add a drizzle of melted butter when serving for an extra touch of indulgence.

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is making recipes your own! This Panko Crusted Salmon is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your tastes or pantry staples.

• Swap the herbs: Feel free to use other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro instead of parsley.
• Add some zest: Try adding lemon zest to the panko mixture for a bright citrus note.
• Change up the protein: If salmon isn’t your favorite, this crust works beautifully on chicken breasts or white fish like cod.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to the panko mix if you like a little heat!

How to Make Panko Crusted Salmon

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 415 degrees F. This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crust on top.

Step 2: Prepare the Panko Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko, 4 tablespoons butter, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/3 cup chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, along with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder and onion powder. Use a fork to break apart the butter and mix everything well. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes all those delicious flavors throughout your topping.

Step 3: Assemble the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in a deep baking dish. Generously layer the panko mixture over each piece of salmon. Make sure every inch is covered—this will create that delightful crunch when baked!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the baking dish into the oven on the middle rack. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until an internal thermometer reads 140 degrees F at the thickest part of each fillet. Keep an eye on it so you don’t overcook; perfectly flaky salmon is what we’re after!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for about five minutes. Serve with additional melted butter drizzled over top if desired. Pair it with some roasted broccolini and wild rice for a wholesome meal that everyone will love!

Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious Panko Crusted Salmon—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Panko Crusted Salmon

Creating the perfect Panko Crusted Salmon is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips that can elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh parsley and garlic instead of dried will enhance the flavor and brightness of your dish, making every bite more delicious.

• Adjust the Butter: If you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the butter slightly or substitute with a plant-based alternative. This will still give you that crispy texture without all the richness.

• Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra golden-brown crust, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the salmon to rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven helps redistribute its juices, resulting in moist and flavorful fillets.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the panko mixture, such as dill or smoked paprika, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

How to Serve Panko Crusted Salmon

Serving Panko Crusted Salmon can be as elegant or casual as you like! Here are some ideas to make your plate pop.

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the rich flavors of the salmon and adds a refreshing tang.
• Chopped Scallions: Sprinkling finely chopped scallions on top not only adds color but also a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Broccolini: This vibrant green veggie has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor when roasted, making it an excellent companion for salmon. Simply toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until tender.

• Wild Rice Pilaf: A hearty wild rice pilaf adds a nutty taste and chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with flaky salmon. You can mix it with sautéed onions, mushrooms, or dried cranberries for added depth.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort alongside crisp salmon. They’re perfect for soaking up any extra melted butter you drizzle over your fish.

• Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs is a great way to add freshness and balance out the richness of the salmon.

Enjoy serving this delightful dish in style—your family and friends will be impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Panko Crusted Salmon recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade dinners throughout the week without too much fuss!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the panko topping separate to maintain its crunch.

Freezing

• Wrap individual salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish rubbery.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this Panko Crusted Salmon, I’ve got you covered!

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! While salmon is delicious, you can also try this panko crust on halibut, trout, or even tilapia.

How do I know when my Panko Crusted Salmon is done cooking?

The best way to check is by using an internal thermometer; it should read 140 degrees F at the thickest part of the fish. The salmon will also flake easily with a fork when it’s perfectly cooked.

What can I serve with Panko Crusted Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like broccolini or asparagus and a side of wild rice or quinoa for a well-rounded meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Panko Crusted Salmon recipe as much as I do! It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy cooking and savoring each bite—your taste buds are in for a treat! Happy cooking!