Panko Crusted Salmon

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that’s easy to make and full of flavor, then this Panko Crusted Salmon is just what you need! This dish has quickly become a favorite in my home. The crispy panko topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the tender salmon beautifully. It’s not only perfect for busy weeknights but also makes a stunning centerpiece for family gatherings or special occasions.

I love how simple it is to whip up this Panko Crusted Salmon. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a meal that feels fancy without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good salmon dish, especially when it’s topped with crunchy panko!
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Suggestions: Serve it alongside roasted veggies or wild rice for a complete meal that fits any palate.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the panko mixture ahead of time to save even more time on busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Panko Crusted Salmon recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you may already have at home. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious dish!

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 flavor!

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to personalize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, try using chicken breasts or another fish like cod.
• Add some spice: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to give the topping an extra kick.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Panko Crusted Salmon

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 415 degrees F. This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine your panko, butter, kosher salt, black pepper, parsley, minced garlic, dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Using a fork, break apart the butter and mix until everything is well combined. This mixture creates that delicious crunchy topping we all love!

Step 3: Assemble the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in a deep baking dish. Generously spread the panko mixture over each fillet so every bite is packed with flavor. Spreading it out evenly helps ensure all parts get crispy.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop your baking dish into the preheated 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 the salmon. Keeping an eye on cook time helps prevent overcooking—nobody wants dry salmon!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove your salmon from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for moist fillets. Drizzle some melted butter over top if desired and serve alongside roasted broccolini or wild rice for a delightful meal!

Enjoy this Panko Crusted Salmon—it’s sure to be a hit wherever you serve it!

Pro Tips for Making Panko Crusted Salmon

Cooking is all about finding joy in the process, and these tips will help you create a perfectly crispy and flavorful Panko Crusted Salmon every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley, garlic, and quality salmon make a world of difference in flavor. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the taste but also contribute to the overall appeal of your dish.

• Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: Salmon fillets can vary in thickness. If yours are thicker than 1 inch, consider extending the cooking time by a few minutes, checking regularly to avoid overcooking.

• Let It Rest: After removing your salmon from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fillet, resulting in a moist and tender piece of fish.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to customize your panko mixture! Add some lemon zest or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Tailoring flavors to your preference makes every meal feel special.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees F. This guarantees perfectly cooked salmon that’s flaky and delicious!

How to Serve Panko Crusted Salmon

Serving Panko Crusted Salmon is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon enhances the flavor of the salmon and adds a vibrant touch.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or dill on top before serving for added color and flavor depth.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Broccolini: Tossed with olive oil and lightly seasoned, roasted broccolini brings a delicious crunch that pairs beautifully with salmon.
• Wild Rice: Nutty and chewy, wild rice offers a hearty contrast to the tender fish while complementing its flavors perfectly.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a bright green element to your plate, providing both color and nutrients.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette creates a light side that balances the richness of panko crusted salmon.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only impress at the dinner table but also create a delightful experience that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Panko Crusted Salmon is a fantastic option for meal prep! It’s not only delicious, but it also stores well, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or lunches throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing.
• Place the leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to store it for longer, wrap individual salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped salmon into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and place the salmon on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave; just be careful not to overcook it!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

What is Panko Crusted Salmon?

Panko Crusted Salmon is a delightful dish where fresh salmon fillets are topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb mixture, providing a satisfying crunch while keeping the fish moist and flavorful.

How do I cook Panko Crusted Salmon?

To cook Panko Crusted Salmon, prepare a panko mixture with butter and seasonings, top your salmon fillets with it, and bake at 415 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through.

Can I use other types of fish with this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe is tailored for salmon, you can easily substitute with other firm fish like cod or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the fish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Panko Crusted Salmon is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and tastes great reheated. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

I really hope you enjoy making this Panko Crusted Salmon as much as I do! It’s such a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, remember that good food brings joy. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!